MEDICARE Annual Enrollment is Right Around the Corner!

Here’s What You Need to Know for 2026

It’s that time of year again—Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is just around the corner, October 15 to December 7. This is your once-a-year opportunity to review, compare, and make changes to your Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans for the upcoming year.

But 2026 is bringing more changes than usual, and we want to make sure you’re prepared. Here are some financial updates:

 The new Part A (hospital) deductible is expected to be $1,700 for the first 60 days, and $429 per day for days 61–90 in one benefit period.

 The new part B (doctor) premium is expected to be $206.50/mo, up $21.50 from $185 in 2025.

 The 2026 part B (doctor) deductible is expected to be $288/yr, up $31 from $257 in 2025.

 The Part D (medication) deductible will be up to $615 and the maximum out of pocket will be $2,100 in 2026.

Watch Your Mailbox & Inbox in September

If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, keep a close eye on your mail and email starting mid to late September. You should receive one of the following:

 Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) – This document outlines any changes to your plan for 2026, including premiums, copays, provider networks, drug formularies, and more.

 Plan Cancellation or Discontinuation Letter – In some cases, insurance companies may discontinue certain plans altogether. If this happens, you’ll need to choose a new plan for 2026.

These letters can sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for junk mail, so it’s crucial to review any correspondence from your insurance company carefully.

Why This Year Is Different

While plan changes happen every year, 2026 will bring an unusually high number of updates across many Medi- care Advantage and Part D plans due to ongoing regulatory changes, shifting provider networks, and rising healthcare costs. What worked well for you in 2025 may no longer be your best option in 2026—even if you’re happy with your current plan.

Don’t Go It Alone–Get Local, Trusted Help

With so many plans and changes to sort through, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where Hanson Insurance come in.

As your local Medicare experts, we help clients navigate these changes confidently and with peace of mind. Brokers provide personalized, unbiased advice to ensure you select the plan that best fits your health needs and budget for the upcoming year.

What You Can Do Now

 Mark your calendar for the AEP: October 15–December 7, 2025.

 Look for your ANOC or cancellation letter in September and read it carefully.

 Schedule a review appointment with a licensed Medicare advisor as soon as possible. Appointments fill up quickly during AEP!

 Bring your current plan information and a list of your medications and doctors to your review

Call your trusted local advisor today to schedule your no-cost Medicare review. The right plan can make all the difference!

HansonFirst.com • 512-817-6906Hanson Insurance, Emily Hanson

Sixteen local brokers, specializing in Medicare, and ready to assist with all your health insurance needs.

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