What You Should Be Doing Now to Prepare for AEP (Medicare & ACA)
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is almost here—are you ready?
Whether you’re enrolled in a Medicare or ACA (Affordable Care Act) health plan, the upcoming AEP is your chance to review your coverage and make important changes. Many people wait until the last minute, but a little preparation now can save you time, money, and stress.
In this article, I’ll walk you through exactly what you should be doing right now to get ready.
Understand the Enrollment Dates
Each program has specific enrollment windows:
Medicare AEP: October 15 – December 7
ACA Open Enrollment: November 1 – January 15 (dates may vary by state)
Mark these on your calendar now so you don’t miss your opportunity to switch plans or update your coverage.
Gather Your Information
Start putting together a few important documents and details:
Your current health insurance plan information
A list of doctors, clinics, and specialists you see
An updated list of your prescriptions and dosages
Recent medical bills or explanation of benefits (EOBs)
This information will help you (and your agent) compare your current plan with other options.
Think About What Changed
Ask yourself:
Have your health needs changed this year?
Are your current out-of-pocket costs too high?
Is your doctor still in-network?
Has your income changed (for ACA plans)?
Are there benefits you’d like to add—such as dental, vision, or hearing?
Even small life changes can mean your current plan no longer meets your needs.
Review Your Plan’s Changes
If you’re on Medicare, your plan will send you an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) by the end of September. This document outlines any changes to:
Premiums
Copays and deductibles
Drug coverage
Network providers
For ACA clients, plan updates—like premium changes or subsidy adjustments—are released in the fall. Be sure to review them carefully.
Schedule a No Cost Coverage Review
Don’t wait until the deadline is looming. The earlier you schedule your review, the more options you'll have—and the less likely you are to feel rushed or overwhelmed.
As a licensed agent, I offer no-cost, no-obligation reviews to help you:
Maximize your benefits
Lower your out-of-pocket costs
Avoid surprise bills
Get help applying for assistance programs if you qualify
Appointments fill up fast during AEP, so book early!
Double-Check Your Eligibility
For ACA clients, make sure you’ve reported any income or household changes. This affects your eligibility for subsidies and may help you qualify for a better plan.
For Medicare clients, it’s a good time to see if you now qualify for Extra Help, Medicaid, or other savings programs based on income or disability.
Make a Coverage “Wish List”
As you prepare, jot down what matters most to you in a plan:
Lower costs on prescriptions
Better dental, vision, or hearing benefits
Access to specific doctors or hospitals
A fitness program like SilverSneakers
Having a list helps narrow your choices and focus on what you truly need.
Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Preparing for AEP now puts you in the driver’s seat. You’ll have time to review your options, ask questions, and make confident decisions about your healthcare coverage.
If you need help or want to explore your options, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s Connect
Jennifer Robbins
Licensed Medicare & ACA Agent
Riverside Insurance Professionals
📞 (573) 535-6044
🌐 www.RiversideInsurance.org
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial, or medical advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, Medicare rules, premiums, and guidelines may change. For the most current information, please visit the official Medicare website (www.medicare.gov) or contact a licensed Medicare professional.
Riverside Insurance Professionals is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program.
Currently we represent 7 organizations which offer 43 products in your area. You can always contact Medicare.gov, 1‑800‑MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program for help with plan choices.
