Medicare Open Enrollment closed December 7 with plan changes taking effect January 1, 2026. If you missed open enrollment, you may be eligible for a special enrollment period (SEP) if you meet certain criteria. Minnesota Aging Pathways, formerly the Senior LinkAge Line, staff can help you identify if you are eligible for a SEP. Here are some examples of when someone on Medicare can access a SEP:
- They were hospitalized or in another medical setting during open enrollment
- They moved
- They lost insurance or employer coverage
- They lost Medical Assistance
- They became eligible for Medicare Savings Programs or Medicare Part D Extra Help
- Their current plan is no longer available in the state
- Their current plan has a significant provider withdrawal
If you believe you are eligible for a special enrollment period, contact Minnesota Aging Pathways for assistance by calling 800-333-2433 Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m—4:30 p.m.
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment begins January 1 and runs through March 31, 2026. During this time, beneficiaries who begin the year enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan can change to another Medicare Advantage Plan or return to original Medicare and get a Part D plan. Minnesota Aging Pathways staff can assist with Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment.
Medicare Resources
- Visit www.medicare.gov to access their wealth of Medicare resources.
- Call 1-800-MEDICARE 24/7 to ask questions about Medicare plans and coverage.
- Call Minnesota Aging Pathways (formerly the Senior LinkAge Line) at 800-333-2433 Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m.—4:30 p.m. They can help Minnesotans year-round.