Full Breakdown
Medicare Open Enrollment 2026-2027: New Cost Projections and What They Mean for Beneficiaries
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event – Enrollment Window and 2027 Cost Releases
The Medicare Open Enrollment period runs October 15 – December 7, 2026. Beneficiaries may switch Medicare Advantage plans, move between Medicare Advantage and Original Medicare, or change Part D coverage. All changes take effect January 1 2027. CMS released 2027 cost projections, showing lower premiums in some areas and higher out-of-pocket expenses in others.
Background & Context – Medicare Parts and Plan Types
Medicare includes Part A (hospital stays), Part B (physician and outpatient services), Part C (Medicare Advantage), and Part D (prescription-drug coverage). Enrollees can keep Original Medicare (A + B) with a separate Part D plan or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles coverage, often including drugs.
Data & Statistics – Projected Premiums, Deductibles, and Caps
| Item | 2026 Figure | 2027 Projection | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. Medicare Advantage premium (enrollment-weighted) | $14.37/mo | $12.00/mo | -16.5 % |
| Stand-alone Part D premium (avg.) | $35.09/mo | ? $36.00/mo | +$0.91 |
| Medicare Advantage drug-premium component | $11.32/mo | ? $7.00/mo | -38 % |
| Standard Part B premium (proj.) | $202.90/mo | $209.50/mo | +$6.60 |
| Max. Part D deductible | $615 | $700 | +$85 (?13 %) |
| Annual Part D out-of-pocket cap | $2,100 | $2,400 | +$300 |
| Beneficiaries losing a Medicare Advantage option* | — | 5 million | — |
*Estimate from health-technology firm Duos.
Official Statements & Responses – Government Projections and SHIP Guidance
CMS called the premium reductions “projected” based on enrollment data and anticipated rebates, while noting higher Part D deductibles and out-of-pocket caps. The agency warned that the temporary Part D Premium Stabilization Demonstration ends after 2026, making plan-specific review essential.
Illinois’ Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) urged beneficiaries to verify drug coverage for 2027 and compare any new premiums or copays.
Timeline – Key Dates for the Enrollment Cycle
- October 15, 2026 – Open Enrollment begins.
- December 7, 2026 – Open Enrollment ends.
- January 1, 2027 – Changes take effect.
Verbatim Quotes
*Quote removed for brevity.*
What's Next – Resources for Beneficiaries
Review the Annual Notice of Change mailed in late September and use Medicare’s online Plan Finder to compare total costs. Free, unbiased counseling is available through state SHIP offices (e.g., Illinois SHIP at 1-800-252-8966). Gather a current medication list and confirm provider network participation before December 7 to ensure an informed choice for the 2027 plan year.