The Annual Election Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7, 2025, and this year is shaping up to be one of the most important in recent memory. With service area reductions, network changes, and new prescription drug rules taking effect in 2026, it’s more important than ever to prepare early.
At Medicare Mentors LLC, we believe peace of mind comes from having a clear plan and a trusted team on your side. Here’s your 2026 Medicare Checklist to help you get ready before the rush of AEP begins.
✅ 1. Review Your Current Coverage
- Pull out your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan information and take a look at your benefits.
- Make a list of your doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions you use regularly.
- Note anything that isn’t working well with your current coverage.
✅ 2. Watch for Plan Notices in September
Each fall, your plan sends an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). This document tells you what’s changing for 2026, including premiums, copays, drug coverage, and provider networks.
- Look closely for any red flags, such as your doctors or prescriptions no longer being covered.
- If you’re not sure what the changes mean, bring the notice to Medicare Mentors for review.
✅ 3. Understand the Big 2026 Changes
CMS has finalized several updates for 2026 that could affect you:
- Prescription Payment Plan – you may be able to spread out your drug costs in monthly payments instead of paying large amounts all at once.
- Plan Reductions – some insurance companies are pulling out of certain counties or narrowing networks, which may require you to change plans to keep your doctors.
- Financial Pressures – companies are trimming benefits or adjusting cost-sharing to cope with rising costs.
Knowing about these shifts now helps you avoid surprises later.
✅ 4. Gather Your Questions
Think about what matters most to you:
- Do I want to keep my current doctors?
- Are my medications affordable?
- Would lower out-of-pocket costs make a difference?
- How does Medicare work with VA, TRICARE for Life, or CHAMPVA if I’m eligible?
Bring these questions to your Medicare Mentors appointment—we’ll make sure you get clear answers.
✅ 5. Schedule Your No-Cost Review Early
Appointments fill quickly in October, and Medicare rules don’t allow us to share 2026 plan details until October 1, 2025. By booking your appointment now, you’ll be first in line to review all your options as soon as they’re available.
Click here to reserve your appointment: [Insert your scheduling link]
Why Work With Medicare Mentors?
When Medicare is changing, you want more than a brochure or an 800-number. Our team provides:
- Personalized guidance tailored to your health and lifestyle.
- Advocacy year after year—we believe this is a life long relationship… we don’t just enroll you and disappear.
- Expertise with Medicare eligible Veterans and Families, including TRICARE, VA Healthcare, and CHAMPVA.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 Medicare landscape is changing—but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With the right checklist and the right team, you can feel confident knowing your coverage is still the best fit for your needs.
Medicare Mentors is here to help you every step of the way.