Stay informed! Watch our below videos where the Arch Brokerage Team breaks down the key do’s and don’ts of Medicare Annual Enrollment — so you can avoid mistakes and make confident choices.
Key Things to
PREPARE FOR AEP
Key Things to
AVOID DURING AEP
1. Review Your Current Coverage & Compare All Available Plans
Look back at how your plan worked this year. Are your doctors still in-network? Are your costs manageable? Did it cover what you needed? Even if you’re happy, something better might be available — with lower costs or improved benefits. Don’t assume last year’s plan is still your best fit.
2. Make a List of Your Medications & Providers
Having a current list helps your agent compare plans accurately and ensure your prescriptions and providers are covered.
3. Read Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
This document outlines changes coming to your current plan in the new year. It’s essential to know if your costs, coverage, or drug list will change.
4. Schedule a Review with a Trusted Agent
A licensed agent can walk you through your options and answer questions, so you feel confident in your decision — not overwhelmed.
5. Watch Out for Misleading Ads
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6. Enroll Before the Deadline
Make your choice and complete your enrollment by December 7th to avoid any delays in your 2026 coverage.
7. Submit Your Annual Fact Finder ASAP
Your fact finder gives your advisor the information they need to prepare a personalized review or schedule your enrollment appointment. The sooner it’s in, the better!
1. Enrolling Without Fully Understanding the Plan
Don’t choose a plan just because it sounds good. Make sure you understand copays, networks, out-of-pocket costs, and what’s covered — especially if you see specific doctors or take regular medications.
2. Overlooking Prescription Drug Coverage
Make sure your current prescriptions are still covered — and at a reasonable cost. Formularies and pharmacy networks change annually.
3. Answering Unsolicited Calls or Talking to Spam Callers
If someone calls you out of the blue about Medicare, be cautious. Scammers and aggressive marketers are common during enrollment season. When in doubt, hang up.
4. Falling for Celebrity Commercials
TV ads with famous faces often promote plans that may not apply to your area or situation. Don’t base your decision on marketing — consult a trusted expert.
5. Not Listing All Your Prescriptions for a Review
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6. Assuming All Plans Include the Same Benefits
Not all Medicare plans are created equal. Some include dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, or over-the-counter allowances — and some don’t. Don’t assume — always check the details.
7. Taking Advice from Friends or Family
Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your needs may differ from your friends’ or family’s, so always consult a licensed agent who can tailor recommendations to you.
8. Assuming Your Current Plan Is Still the Best Fit
Plans and pricing change annually. Even if your plan worked this year, better options may now be available.
9. Ignoring the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
Your plan’s costs, drug coverage, or provider network may have changed. Always review your ANOC to avoid surprises in the new year.
10. Waiting Until the Last Minute
Delaying your review can lead to missed deadlines or hasty decisions. Give yourself time to evaluate your options carefully.
Ready for your 2026 review, click and complete one of Arch Brokerage’s Finder Finders!
