US Medicare Plan Ending Action Steps

When a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MA-PD) plan ends and no new coverage is selected, Original Medicare steps in on January 1—but drug coverage will stop, and those with Extra Help might be reassigned. Original Medicare doesn’t set an annual out-of-pocket maximum, so costs can add up. For 2026, Part B will run $202.90 each month, with a $283 deductible; Part A’s deductible is $1,700. One major insurer plans to discontinue coverage for around 600,000 Medicare Advantage members in 2027, so those early notice letters are your cue to begin reviewing all your options. Keep in mind: Medigap guaranteed-issue rights are available from 60 days before to 63 days after your plan ends, but if you go more than 63 days without drug coverage, you could face permanent Part D penalties. To ensure you’re protected by January 1, make your decision by December 31. Take time to review every prescription, tier, and pharmacy before choosing a new Advantage plan or Original Medicare with Part D. My goal is always to help you navigate these changes with confidence and clarity, so you feel supported every step of the way.