Medicare Annual Open Enrollment: What’s Important for 2026

Each year, the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment (AEP) brings challenges and opportunities for agents trying to help their clients navigate options.

• Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDPs): PDP premiums are projected to increase in 2026, although rates have not yet been released.  While restructuring has reduced out-of-pocket expenses for some enrollees, the shift to higher deductibles and increased coinsurance (rather than copays) mean overall higher PDP and Medicare Advantage PD costs for those who do not reach the annual out-of-pocket limit.

• Medicare Advantage (MA): Interest in MA plans may increase if standalone PDPs become increasingly more expensive and/or limited. However, fewer PPO options and a focus on HMOs may also limit MA plan options.

• Agent Commissions: As carriers eliminate agent commissions, beneficiaries lose access to valued trusted sources to help them navigate the complexities of AEP. 

• PDP stabilization: For more information, visit KFF.

• 2025 Social Security and Medicare Trustees Report: For more information click REPORT.