KCIIS Medicare Open Enrollment FAQ (Client Guide – 2026)

You can change your Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Part D prescription drug plan, or return to Original Medicare with or without a Medigap / Medicare Supplement plan.

Maybe. Medicare plans change benefits, premiums, and drug formularies every year. Review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) before keeping your plan.

All Medicare plan changes made during Open Enrollment begin January 1, 2026.

You’ll stay in your current plan automatically, but that includes any new premium, copay, or benefit changes for 2026. Please check your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) to make sure you are okay with any upcoming changes to your plan(s).

You’ll need to wait until the next period unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) due to a move, loss of coverage, or another qualifying event.

Part D plans adjust pricing each year. We recheck every fall to ensure you’re not overpaying for your prescriptions.

Yes. Without creditable coverage, you’ll face a lifetime late enrollment penalty later.

This also helps make sure you’re covered should you start needing medications in the middle of the year.

Pharmacy contracts change annually. Switching to a preferred network pharmacy may reduce your copays.

Not always. Moving to a different state or county may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period to choose a new plan. Please check with your agent or plan to make sure you are covered in the event you move.

No. You still pay your Part B premium and any copays or deductibles. A “$0 premium” means you don’t pay extra for the plan itself.

It depends. HMO plans require in-network care; PPO plans allow out-of-network visits, often at a higher cost.

Doctors and hospitals can change contracts each year. Always verify your provider network before January 1.

You’ll receive a notice by mail. Don’t panic — you’ll have time to select a new plan or switch back to Original Medicare.

Medigap plans supplement Original Medicare and lets you see any provider nationwide. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare and works within a provider network.

Yes, but you may have to answer health questions or pass medical underwriting, depending on your state and timing.

You’re paying for freedom and predictability — no networks, nationwide coverage, and stable out-of-pocket costs.

Your Part B premium or IRMAA surcharge may have changed based on your income from two years ago.

Ask us to check if you qualify for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) or a Medicare Savings Program.

You’ll pay about 1% per month for every month you lacked creditable coverage — and it lasts for life.

CMS rule changes led some insurers to exit certain markets or reduce offerings.

Watch our Medicare 2026 Update Video, check your email for instructions, and contact us early before enrollment deadlines.

Some companies stopped paying agents to service specific plans, but our team still helps clients understand and transition their options.

Insulin capped at $35/month, vaccines are $0, and there’s a $2,000 annual out-of-pocket limit for prescriptions. There may be plan-specific changes listed in your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) your insurance company sent you to check on any changes with regards to any existing prescriptions you have.