It’s that time of year again—Medicare Annual Enrollment is just around the corner! Beginning October 15 and running through December 7, Medicare beneficiaries across the U.S. have the chance to review their coverage and make changes for the upcoming year.
If you live in Vancouver, WA, or the surrounding Southwest Washington area, Your Insurance Gal Agency is here to make sure you’re prepared and confident in your Medicare choices for 2026.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)?
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the once-a-year window when Medicare beneficiaries can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C)
- Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare
- Enroll in a new Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)
- Change from one Medicare Advantage or Part D plan to another
- Drop a plan entirely if it no longer meets your needs
Any changes you make during this time will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Why It’s Important to Review Your Coverage
Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s important to review it each year. Why?
- Plans Change Annually – Insurance companies adjust premiums, copays, provider networks, and prescription coverage.
- Your Health Needs May Change – A plan that worked for you last year might not provide the coverage you need today.
- Potential Savings – Switching plans could save you hundreds of dollars per year on medications or out-of-pocket costs.
At Your Insurance Gal Agency, we sit down with you one-on-one to review your plan, your doctors, your prescriptions, and your goals, then compare all available options in Clark County and beyond.
Key Dates to Remember
- October 15 – Enrollment period opens.
- December 7 – Enrollment period closes.
- January 1, 2026 – New plans take effect.
– If you miss the December 7 deadline, you may be locked into your current plan for another year—unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. That’s why it’s so important to schedule your review early.
How to Get Ready
Here are a few steps you can take now to prepare for Medicare Annual Enrollment:
- Make a List of Your Prescriptions – Bring an updated list of medications, including dosage and frequency.
- Check Your Doctors – Write down the names of your preferred providers and specialists.
- Review Your Current Plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) – This document outlines changes to your coverage or costs for 2026.
- Schedule an Appointment with a Local Medicare Expert – Your Insurance Gal Agency is based in Vancouver, WA, and specializes in helping Southwest Washington seniors navigate Medicare with confidence.
Now is the Time!
Medicare Annual Enrollment is the best time to ensure your plan still works for you—and to make changes if it doesn’t. Don’t wait until the last minute.
📞 Call Your Insurance Gal Agency today at (360) 771-1155 or schedule your free Medicare review appointment. Together, we’ll find a plan that fits your health needs and your budget for 2026.
