If you’ve received a notice that your Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plan is ending, it can be unsettling. But this kind of news doesn’t mean you’re out of options—or that you’re on your own.
When a Medicare plan is discontinued in your area, it triggers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This gives you a limited-time opportunity to choose new coverage—without penalties, without health questions, and without having to wait for the Annual Enrollment Period. The key is knowing what to do, and when to do it. Let’s break it down together.
Why Plans Get Discontinued
Medicare plans can end for several reasons. Sometimes the insurance company decides to stop offering a plan in your state. Other times, a plan may not meet Medicare’s renewal standards, or it simply isn’t available in your ZIP code for the upcoming year.
Whatever the reason, if your plan is being discontinued, Medicare gives you a pathway to make a change—and avoid a coverage gap.
How the Special Enrollment Period Works
You’re eligible for this SEP if:
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Your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan is ending
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You receive an official notification about the termination
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You are not being auto-assigned to another plan—or you choose not to accept the one offered
Your Special Enrollment Period typically begins as soon as you’re notified. The timeline can vary, so it’s important to read your termination letter closely. It will include specific enrollment dates, deadlines, and your available next steps.
What You Can Do During This SEP
Once your SEP begins, you have several options:
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Enroll in a new Medicare Advantage plan in your area
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Return to Original Medicare and sign up for a standalone Part D drug plan
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Apply for a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan—depending on your situation, you may qualify for guaranteed issue rights, meaning you can enroll without medical underwriting
This is a chance to re-evaluate what’s working, what’s not, and whether a new plan might serve you better going forward.
Avoiding Common Missteps
When your plan ends, it’s tempting to either rush into a new plan or wait too long to act. Here are a few things to watch for:
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Don’t ignore the termination letter. Missing your enrollment window could mean losing coverage altogether.
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Don’t assume your current doctors or prescriptions will be covered in your new plan. Always check the provider network and formulary.
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Don’t settle for the first plan you find. Compare your options—you may find something that fits your health needs and budget even better than before.
Next Steps to Take
If your plan is ending, here’s what to do:
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Review the termination notice carefully. Make note of your enrollment deadline.
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Contact a licensed Medicare advisor. We’ll help you understand your options and compare what’s available in your area.
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Enroll in your new plan before the deadline. This helps ensure there’s no disruption to your care.
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Double-check your new plan’s start date. You’ll want to be sure there’s no gap between the old plan ending and the new one beginning.
A Change You Didn’t Expect—But Still Have Control Over
Losing a Medicare plan may not have been part of your retirement strategy. But with the right guidance, it can also be a chance to find coverage that better fits your needs today.
Whether you’re hoping to stick with your current doctors, lower your prescription costs, or just understand your new plan options, we’re here to help you make a smooth, confident transition.
Need Help Navigating the Change?
Plan terminations can feel disruptive—but you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Whether you need help comparing new plans, confirming your Special Enrollment Period dates, or just want to understand your options more clearly, support is available.
Our licensed Medicare Guides are here to walk you through it all—step by step, and without the pressure.
Call us at 800-864-8890 or book your free consultation online. Together, we’ll make sure your next plan fits your needs, your budget, and your peace of mind.