Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage - Medicare Part D

When can I join, switch, or drop a drug plan?

Font Size Larger Font Smaller Font
User Rating: / 0
PoorBest 

You can join, switch, or drop a Medicare drug plan at these times:

  • When you first become eligible for Medicare. You can join the 3 months before you turn age 65 to 3 months after the month you turn age 65.
  • If you get Medicare due to a disability, you can join during the 3 months before to 3 months after your 25th month of disability.
  • From November 15–December 31 each year. Your coverage will begin on January 1 of the following year.
  • At any time if you qualify for extra help. This includes people who have Medicare and Medicaid, belong to a Medicare Savings Program, get Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits (but not Medicaid), and those who apply and qualify.
If you currently have Medicare prescription drug coverage, you should review your coverage each year in the fall. If you are happy with your coverage, cost, and customer service, and your Medicare drug plan is still offered in your area, you don’t have to do anything for your coverage to continue for another year. However, if you decide another plan will better meet your needs, you can switch to a different plan.