Special Enrollment Period: Getting a Plan Non-Renewal Notice and Understanding Next Steps
In Ohio, some Medicare Advantage plans and Prescription Drug plans (Part D) did not be renew their contracts with Medicare for 2026. Individuals affected by this should receive a Notice of Non-Renewal from the plan, stating that coverage ended on Dec. 31.
This notice reminds recipients to choose a new plan for the coming year and includes a list of options for Medicare coverage, including a special right to purchase a Medigap policy.
If a new plan was selected by Dec. 31, coverage will begin on Jan. 1. If this deadline is missed, a Special Enrollment Period of an additional 63 days is available to select a plan. If no new plan is chosen by Dec. 31, Medicare will automatically enroll the individual in Original Medicare for standard medical coverage.
For those receiving Extra Help, if the plan is terminating and no action was taken by Dec. 31, Medicare will automatically enroll the individual in a Part D plan to ensure continued coverage starting Jan. 1. This automatic enrollment guarantees uninterrupted drug coverage, although the new plan may not include the same providers, benefits, or costs. Affected individuals are also granted a Special Enrollment Period from Dec. 8 through February, during which a different plan can be selected to better meet coverage needs.
Ohioans with Medicare are encouraged to review options carefully. For help comparing plans, visit Medicare.gov, call 1-800-Medicare (1-800-633-4227), or contact the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program at 800-686-1578.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period Underway
Another Medicare enrollment window is underway. The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period runs from Jan. 1 through March 31. Individuals who are in a Medicare Advantage Plan may make one plan change during this time.
Ohioans on Medicare can switch to a different Medicare Advantage Plan (with or without prescription drug coverage), return to Original Medicare, or enroll in a standalone Medicare Prescription Drug Plan. Any changes take effect on the first day of the month after the new plan receives the request.
For help or questions, representatives from the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program are available at 800-686-1578.
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