What if I want to switch, drop, or rejoin drug coverage?

How do I switch plans? 

You can switch to a new Medicare drug plan or Medicare Advantage Plan with drug coverage simply by joining another plan during certain times. When can I switch or join another plan?

Your old drug coverage will end when your new drug coverage begins. You should get a letter from your new plan telling you when your coverage begins, so you don’t need to cancel your old plan. You can switch plans by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

How do I drop my plan? 

Depending on your circumstances, there are 3 opportunities to drop your Medicare drug coverage:

• During the Open Enrollment Period between October 15–December 7 each year. The change goes into effect January 1 of the following year. To disenroll from a Medicare drug plan during Open Enrollment, you can do one of these:
  • Call us at 1-800-MEDICARE. 
  • Mail or fax a signed written notice to the plan telling them you want to disenroll.
  • Submit a request to the plan online, if they offer this option.
  • Call the plan and ask them to send you a disenrollment notice. You’ll have to complete, sign and send the notice back to the plan.
• During the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period if you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan with drug coverage.
• When you meet certain other circumstances.

Can I rejoin a plan with drug coverage?

You can rejoin a plan with Medicare drug coverage in the future. But if you go 63 days or more in a row without other creditable prescription drug coverage :

• You'll have to wait for an enrollment period to sign up for coverage.
• You may have to pay a late enrollment penalty.