Dec 7Open enrollment deadline
~3.2MPeople whose MA plans end for 2027
28Average MA drug plans available per person (2027)
FreeSHIP counseling: 1-877-839-2675
Key takeaway: Start by reading your plan’s Annual Notice of Change, then list your doctors, prescriptions and expected care. Compare plans on estimated total yearly cost, network and star ratings using the Medicare Plan Finder. If your plan is ending, you must choose a new one. Get free help from your state SHIP and don’t let a salesperson rush you.
How we put this guide together: This checklist follows Medicare.gov and CMS guidance for 2027 open enrollment, with plan-change data from KFF and industry analyses and consumer protections described by the Medicare Rights Center. Figures were checked in October 2026. BeSecuredNow is not affiliated with Medicare or any government agency; for official information visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE. See our advertiser disclosure.

Step 1: Review what’s changing in your plan

Your plan should have sent an Annual Notice of Change by the end of September. Check changes to premiums, deductibles, copays, the drug list, the provider network and extra benefits. For 2027, about eight in ten Medicare Advantage members can keep their plan at the same or a lower premium, but about 3.2 million people’s plans are ending. If yours is ending, you’ll get a notice and must choose new cover.

Step 2: List what you need

  • Every doctor, specialist, hospital and pharmacy you use
  • All prescriptions with doses
  • Planned procedures or ongoing treatment
  • Whether you travel or live in more than one state
  • Your budget for premiums and worst-case out-of-pocket costs

Step 3: Decide between the two routes

If you’re choosing between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare with Medigap, read our comparison. Remember that moving from Medicare Advantage back to Medigap can be difficult after your first six months.

Step 4: Compare plans in the Medicare Plan Finder

  1. Log in at Medicare.gov and save your drugs and doctors.
  2. Sort plans by estimated total yearly cost (premiums plus drug costs).
  3. Check each plan’s network for your doctors; call the doctor’s office to confirm.
  4. Compare the in-network out-of-pocket maximum (expected to average $6,603 in 2027).
  5. Read the Summary of Benefits for copays on specialists, hospital stays and outpatient surgery.
  6. Check prior authorization rules for services you use.

Step 5: Check quality ratings

CMS rates plans from 1 to 5 stars. For 2027, about 71% of people in Medicare Advantage drug plans are in plans rated 4 stars or higher, and 15 of 508 such contracts earned 5 stars. A 5-star plan can also be joined once outside open enrollment through a special enrollment period. See our guide to judging plans.

Step 6: Protect yourself from pressure sales

  • Agents may not call you without permission or visit your home uninvited.
  • Don’t give your Medicare number to unsolicited callers.
  • Be wary of TV ads promising large extra benefits; ask what the plan’s network and copays are.
  • Report suspected marketing violations to 1-800-MEDICARE.

Step 7: Enroll and confirm

Enroll through Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE or directly with the plan by December 7. Joining a new Medicare Advantage or drug plan automatically ends your old one. Keep your confirmation, and watch for your new ID card and welcome materials before January 1.

Missed something?

If you’re in Medicare Advantage, you can switch once between January 1 and March 31. Other changes generally need a special enrollment period. For costs, see Medicare costs; for drug plans, see our Part D guide.

Frequently asked questions

What should I check during Medicare open enrollment?

Your plan’s Annual Notice of Change, whether your doctors and drugs are still covered, total yearly costs and star ratings.

What if my Medicare Advantage plan is ending?

You’ll get a notice and must choose a new plan. If you don’t, you’ll usually return to Original Medicare and may need to join a drug plan.

Do I need to do anything if I like my plan?

If it’s still offered, you’ll be renewed automatically, but check the changes for next year first.

Where can I get free Medicare advice?

Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased counseling: 1-877-839-2675. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE.

Can an agent call me about Medicare plans?

Not without your permission. Report unsolicited calls or home visits to 1-800-MEDICARE.

Sources

Insurance prices, discounts and rules change often and vary by state. Figures were checked in October 2026; confirm details with the insurer or your state insurance department.