As you probably know, you have two opportunities to make changes to your Medicare plan each year. One occurs each fall, from October 15 to December 7, and allows all Medicare beneficiaries to make changes as they see fit. The other occurs from January 1 to March 31 and applies only to Medicare Advantage enrollees.

But what if you forgot about these enrollment periods, didn’t have time to deal with it, or otherwise feel regret about your choices? Is there any other time during the year, during which you can switch from one Medicare plan to another that better suits you?

Depending upon the circumstances, this might be possible. You might be able to qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if one of the following circumstances applies to your case:

• You move to a new service area
• You move within your current service area, and the move allows for new plan options to be available
• Your current Advantage plan ends service in your area
• You lose creditable drug coverage for your medications
• You are leaving individual, union, or COBRA healthcare coverage
• You move into, or out of, a nursing facility
• Certain other unusual situations

As we mentioned, some other situations might allow for a Special Enrollment Period. If you believe your situation calls for a change in your Medicare plan, call one of our insurance professionals to discuss your options. If you do qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you will have two months to investigate new plan options and make the necessary changes.