Medicare Open Enrollment 2027 Guide
By Brent Meyer — SafeMoney.com Founder & Editor | Reviewed by Licensed Financial Professionals
Prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment for 2027 coverage. Compare plans during Oct. 15–Dec. 7, 2026, and see which 2027 costs are announced or pending.
By Brent Meyer — SafeMoney.com Founder & Editor
Reviewed by Licensed Financial Professionals | SafeMoney.com — Trusted Since 2011 | Updated Regularly
Quick Answer: Prepare for 2027 Medicare coverage. The Annual Election Period runs Oct. 15–Dec. 7, 2026; compare plans, verify drug costs, and distinguish announced Part D costs from pending Part A and Part B amounts.
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Key Takeaways
- Review your current Medicare plan to identify any gaps in coverage.
- Explore announced 2027 Part D changes and identify Part A and Part B costs that remain pending.
- Utilize retirement calculators to assess your healthcare costs.
- Consult a SafeMoney certified advisor for personalized guidance.
- Consider guaranteed solutions to enhance your retirement income strategy.
Quick Answer
For 2027 coverage, Medicare’s Annual Election Period runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. During this period, you can review and change your Medicare plans, with changes taking effect on January 1, 2027. If you miss this window and are already enrolled in Medicare Advantage, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31, 2027, and allows one plan change.
SafeMoney Editorial Team | Reviewed by Licensed Financial Professionals | Updated Regularly
Understanding Medicare Open Enrollment
Medicare Open Enrollment, also referred to as the Annual Election Period, is a critical time for beneficiaries to evaluate their healthcare coverage. This period allows you to switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, change Medicare Advantage plans, or adjust Part D prescription drug plans. Any changes you make will be effective starting January 1, 2027.
What Is Announced for Medicare in 2027
As we prepare for 2027, some Part D amounts are announced while Part A and Part B amounts remain pending. Understanding these changes can help you make informed decisions during the enrollment period.
| Medicare component | 2026 comparison (not 2027) | 2027 status as of September 15, 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Part B premium | $202.90 | Pending CMS announcement |
| Part B deductible | $283 | Pending CMS announcement |
| Part A deductible | $1,736 | Pending CMS announcement |
| Part D maximum deductible | 2026 comparison not shown here | $700 announced |
| Part D covered out-of-pocket threshold | $2,100 | $2,400 announced |
Preparing for Medicare Open Enrollment
To make the most of the Medicare Open Enrollment period, it's essential to prepare thoroughly. Here are some steps to consider:
Review Your Current Plan
Examine your current Medicare plan's premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs. Consider how well your plan met your healthcare needs over the past year.
Compare New Plan Options
Explore new Medicare Advantage and Part D plans available in your area. Use our calculators to estimate potential costs and savings.
Consider Your Healthcare Needs
Evaluate any changes in your health status or prescription drug needs. Ensure that your chosen plan provides adequate coverage for your anticipated healthcare requirements.
2027 Medicare sources
2027 benefit snapshot: CMS lists a $700 maximum Part D deductible, a $2,400 covered Part D out-of-pocket threshold, and a $41.33 base beneficiary premium. The $41.33 figure is not a universal plan premium. Part A/B premiums and deductibles and Part B/Part D IRMAA amounts were pending as of September 15, 2026. For current 2027 planning, check the official guidance rather than relying on older figures in this article:
- Medicare Part D guide and Medicare basics guide
- CMS 2027 Announcement, Attachment V Table V-2
- CMS July 28, 2026 Parts C and D Announcement
- CMS fact sheet on the 15 additional negotiated Part D drugs taking effect January 1, 2027 (25 drugs total)
- Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P)
- Medicare.gov enrollment guidance
- SSA POMS enrollment guidance (supports 2026 information only)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Medicare Open Enrollment?
Medicare Open Enrollment, also known as the Annual Election Period, is the time when you can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, change Medicare Advantage plans, or modify Part D prescription drug plans.
What 2027 Medicare costs are known?
For 2027, the Part D maximum deductible is $700 and the covered Part D out-of-pocket threshold is $2,400. Part A and Part B premiums and deductibles were not announced as of September 15, 2026; the $202.90 Part B premium, $283 Part B deductible, and $1,736 Part A deductible shown in the table are official 2026 comparisons.
How can I prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment?
To prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment, review your current plan's costs, benefits, and coverage. Compare new plan options and consider your healthcare needs for the upcoming year.
When is the 2027 Medicare Annual Election Period?
For 2027 coverage, the Medicare Annual Election Period runs from October 15 through December 7, 2026. Changes generally take effect January 1, 2027.
What is the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period?
For 2027, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from January 1 through March 31 and is only for people already enrolled in Medicare Advantage; it allows one plan change.
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