Medicare Open Enrollment is happening right now. From October 15 through December 7, 2026, you have one chance to change your Medicare coverage for 2027 — and this year, the stakes are higher than usual. Premiums jumped nearly 10%, prescription drug rules changed again, and Medicare negotiated lower prices on 10 major medications for the first time ever. Whether you love your current plan or not, doing nothing this fall is a gamble. Plans change their costs, drug lists, and networks every year. Here's everything you need to know — and exactly what to do before December 7. What Is Medicare Open Enrollment? Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7 every year. During this window you can: Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (or back) Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Join, drop, or switch a Part D prescription drug plan Add or change supplemental coverage options Any changes you make take effect ...