October 21, 2026 - KFF Answers Medicare Questions:
Is the Medicare Open Enrollment period the same as the Marketplace Open Enrollment period? Can I buy Medicare and Medigap plans through the Marketplace?
There is some overlap in the enrollment periods for Medicare and the Marketplaces, but they are not the same. The Medicare Open Enrollment period runs from October 15 through December 7 each year. For Marketplace coverage in 2027, the open enrollment period will run from November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027 in states that use the Healthcare.gov website; states that run their own marketplaces may have a longer open enrollment period for 2027.
If you are covered by Medicare, and you are interested in reviewing and comparing your Medicare coverage options, make sure the plans you are considering during the Medicare Open Enrollment period are Medicare plans, not Marketplace plans. Medicare plans, including Medicare Advantage plans (such as Medicare HMOs and PPOs), Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, and Medigap policies are not sold through the federal or state Marketplace websites. You can review and compare your Medicare options on the Medicare coverage comparison website, a searchable tool on the Medicare.gov website, or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). You can also contact the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) in your state. SHIPs offer local, personalized counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families. You can call 877-839-2675 to get the phone number for the SHIP in your state.
Related:
KFF Answers Medicare Questions: How Can I Compare My Medicare Coverage Options?
KFF Answers Medicare Questions: How and When Can I Switch from Medicare Advantage to Traditional Medicare? Is There a Form I Need to Fill Out? Can I Make That Change During the Medicare Open Enrollment Period?
KFF Answers Medicare Questions: I Want To Switch From Medicare Advantage To Traditional Medicare, But I Still Want Drug Coverage. What Do I Need To Do?
KFF Answers Medicare Questions: I Am Covered By Medicare, But I Don’t Take Any Medications. Do I Need To Sign Up For A Drug Plan?
While every effort has been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information in these FAQs, people should contact Medicare, Social Security, State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP), or companies offering Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans and Medigap policies directly for guidance on individual circumstances.
Source: KFF