AEP 2026: Your Complete Medicare Enrollment Guide for Vancouver, WA
Everything you need to know about the Annual Enrollment Period 2026 in Vancouver, WA
📅 AEP 2026 runs from October 15, 2025 to December 7, 2025
What is AEP 2026?
The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is your annual opportunity to review and change your Medicare coverage. For 2026, this critical period runs from October 15, 2025 to December 7, 2025.
During AEP, you can:
- Switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
- Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
- Switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare
- Join, switch, or drop Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage)
- Switch from one Part D plan to another
Key Changes for 2026 Medicare Plans
What's New in 2026:
- New Medicare Advantage plans with enhanced benefits
- Updated prescription drug formularies
- Expanded telehealth coverage options
- New supplemental benefits like dental and vision
- Updated provider networks in Clark County
Vancouver, WA Specific Considerations
As a Vancouver, WA resident, you have access to several Medicare Advantage plans from major carriers including:
- Kaiser Permanente Medicare Advantage
- Regence BlueCross BlueShield Medicare
- UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage
- Humana Medicare Advantage
- And many more options
Local Provider Networks:
When comparing plans, ensure your preferred doctors and hospitals are in-network. Key healthcare systems in Vancouver include PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center, Legacy Salmon Creek Medical Center, and the Vancouver Clinic.
How to Prepare for AEP 2026
Before October 15th:
- Review your current plan's Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
- List your current medications
- Note your preferred doctors and hospitals
- Consider your healthcare needs for 2026
- Schedule a consultation with a local broker
During AEP (Oct 15 - Dec 7):
- Compare plan options using Medicare.gov
- Check provider networks for each plan
- Review prescription drug coverage
- Consider out-of-pocket costs
- Enroll in your chosen plan
Common AEP Mistakes to Avoid
Don't Make These Mistakes:
- Waiting until the last minute to decide
- Not checking if your doctors are in-network
- Ignoring prescription drug coverage
- Focusing only on premiums, not total costs
- Not reviewing the Annual Notice of Change
- Assuming your current plan is still the best option
Get Help from a Local Medicare Broker
Navigating AEP can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. As an independent Medicare broker serving Vancouver, WA, I can help you:
- Compare all available plans in your area
- Understand plan benefits and costs
- Check provider networks
- Review prescription drug coverage
- Complete your enrollment
- Provide ongoing support throughout the year
Free AEP Consultation
Schedule a free consultation to review your options for AEP 2026. I'll help you find the plan that best fits your needs and budget.
Important Dates to Remember
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| September 30, 2025 | Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) mailed |
| October 1, 2025 | 2026 plan information available on Medicare.gov |
| October 15, 2025 | AEP 2026 begins |
| December 7, 2025 | AEP 2026 ends (last day to enroll) |
| January 1, 2026 | New coverage begins |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to change my Medicare plan during AEP?
A: No, you're not required to change your plan. However, it's wise to review your current plan as benefits and costs may change for 2026.
Q: Can I change my mind after enrolling?
A: Yes, you can make changes during AEP (October 15 - December 7). Your last enrollment will be the one that takes effect on January 1, 2026.
Q: Is there a cost to work with a Medicare broker?
A: No, working with a licensed Medicare broker like myself is completely free to you. We're compensated by the insurance companies, not by you.