Among Friends

[Mom2Dogs]

I certainly don't know a lot about Medicare but I know when Open enrollment starts and ends.  

I have a friend that is seeing her insurance agent to discuss 2026 rates before open enrollment starts....does anyone know if the agents have the 2026 prices early?  Maybe he can discuss prices but not make changes/ or sign up until the actual date??

She is going to be really irked if she makes a trip to discuss and then has to go back again to finalize things.

thanks

[LuvmyLab]

Yes, once open enrollment starts Medicare specialists can go over prices and details of the new plans for 2026. However, the plans do not go into effect until January 1. They have all the information to help you decide on the best plan for you.

[MJDinVegas]

Hi, @Mom2Dogs !  We've used a broker since we move to Nevada 8 years ago.  She always contacts us about what's going on so we can make appointments during the open enrollment period.  We're happy with our Medicare Supplements so most of our concern is drug plan premiums and copays.  In 2025 she got us both zero premiums and zero copays for most drugs; DH one or two with copays, low dollar.

ive already sent her the Rx lists we both take and we have an appointment with her the day after open enrollment starts to have our Zoom review.

Im not sure when the agents/brokers get their info but it must be earlier than the start of open enrollment as our broker is thinking she'll recommend a change in plans, at least for DH.

Might be best for her to call the agent and explain what she wants especially not having to book a second appointment.

[Carmie]

I need to choose a new health insurance this coming year.  My past employer is no longer offering benefits for retirees. They are dropping us and I am ticked.

I have looked to see if I can get a head start, but there is no info out yet.

Open enrollment is for RX coverage, you should check out rates every year...important to get the best benefits. Also check out Advantage Plans if you have one.  Benefits are being changed for 2026.  It will be worth your time to look into it and change if necessary.

It is not wise to try to choose a different supplement. 

Premiums are going to be extra expensive in 2026.... especially for drug coverage because drugs are going up.

[Mom2Dogs]

@LuvmyLab   Thanks, I think I understood that info but what I wonder if she has an appointment next week, which she does...will the agent have the 2026 prices....open enrollment would not have started yet....her appointment might not be needed until open enrollment is actually in effect.

[MJDinVegas]

It would be safest to wait until open enrollment starts especially if she needs the agent's help in signing up or changing plans.  

[elated]

Open Enrollment starts October 15th for your information.

[LuvmyLab]

Mom2Dogs, The rep will most likely have the info to give her but I don’t think she can actually sign up until open enrollment Oct 15th. I would have your friend call and verify this before her meeting.

[sunsets1]

You can go to Medicare's web site right now to look for 2026 plans. Please keep in mind that prices, formularies, doctors, hospitals, clinics, etc in network can and will change.If you use an insurance broker, it is a good idea to look at the plans available in your state before your appointment.

[Etoile308]

I think if there are questions then prudent thing to do is have your friend call the insurance agent's office. They would be the ones with the answer.