Medicare in 2027: what to know before you choose
Tatiana Gerberg, CSFP — independent insurance broker in California. CA license #0D83407. Phone 619-925-8000.
Medicare has deadlines, penalties and many choices. This page explains how it works in plain English, so you can decide with a clear head. Education first. No pressure.
Key dates for 2027
| Medicare open enrollment (change Advantage or Part D plan) | October 15 – December 7, 2026 |
| New plan starts | January 1, 2027 |
| Advantage open enrollment (if you are already in an Advantage plan; one change) | January 1 – March 31, 2027 |
| Initial Enrollment Period (when you turn 65) | 7 months: 3 months before, the month you turn 65, 3 months after |
| Covered California (if you are not on Medicare yet) | Nov 1 – Jan 31 |
How Medicare is built
- Part A — hospital care.
- Part B — doctors and outpatient care.
- Part C (Medicare Advantage) — a private plan that includes A and B, often with extra benefits. It has a network and a yearly limit on what you pay.
- Part D — prescription drugs.
- Medigap — an extra plan that pays part of your costs under Original Medicare. It works only with Original Medicare.
Original Medicare vs. Advantage. Original Medicare lets you see doctors who accept Medicare anywhere in the U.S. Advantage plans use networks and often add dental, vision and drug coverage. You can change your Advantage or Part D plan each fall. Going back to Original Medicare and buying Medigap may require health questions, depending on timing. Ask before you cancel anything.
What it costs in 2027
- Part A: no monthly premium for most people who worked 40 quarters (about 10 years).
- Part B: monthly premium and yearly deductible. CMS had not announced the 2027 amounts as of November 6, 2026. The 2027 amounts will be added when CMS publishes them.
- Part D: the standard deductible is up to $700, and the yearly out-of-pocket cap is $2,400 in 2027. Plan prices vary. A federal program that held Part D premiums down is not continuing in 2027, so some premiums may rise. Review your plan.
- Higher income: people with higher income pay an extra amount for Part B and Part D (IRMAA). It is based on your tax return from two years earlier.
- Original Medicare Parts A and B have no yearly out-of-pocket cap. Advantage plans do. Medigap can fill the gaps.
What is new in Medicare in 2027
Source: CMS fact sheet "Your Medicare in 2027: What's New & Changing" (CMS Product No. 12229, September 2026).
- Telehealth: through December 31, 2027, you can get telehealth services anywhere in the U.S., including at home. Ask your doctor if the service you need is offered by video.
- Drug prices: on January 1, 2027, negotiated prices start for 15 more Part D drugs. Your plan can tell you how this affects you.
- GLP-1 Bridge: if you have Part D, these drugs are not covered for you now, and you meet the requirements, you pay a $50 copay for a one-month supply. Rules: Medicare.gov/glp1bridge.
- Electronic prior authorization: starting January 1, 2027, Medicare Advantage plans may process prior authorization electronically.
- ACCESS: a care model for people with Original Medicare who have chronic conditions. It may be low cost or free. Medicare.gov/ACCESS.
- Who can get Part A and Part B (CMS rules): a U.S. citizen or national, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), a Cuban-Haitian entrant, or a person lawfully living in the U.S. under COFA. If you are not sure, call us or Social Security.
- Doctors who opted out of Medicare: Medicare usually does not pay for their services. Ask before the visit.
Penalties that can last
- Part B: if you do not sign up when you first can, and you have no other qualifying coverage, the premium goes up 10% for each full 12 months you waited. It lasts as long as you have Part B.
- Part D: if you go 63 days or more without drug coverage that is as good as Medicare's, a penalty is added to your monthly premium for as long as you have Part D.
- Working past 65 with employer coverage may let you wait. The rules depend on the employer and the coverage. Check before you delay.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Medicare starts by itself. Turning 65 does not sign you up in every case.
- Waiting without checking if your work coverage counts.
- Not reviewing Part D each year. Drugs, pharmacies and prices change.
- Choosing a plan before checking that your doctors and medicines are covered.
- Dropping a plan before the new one is confirmed.
How I help
1. We confirm your Part A and Part B (I start plan talks once both are in place).
2. You sign a short Scope of Appointment, which says what we will discuss.
3. We check your doctors, medicines and pharmacy against the plans I can offer.
4. You decide. There is no obligation.
5. I stay with you after enrollment.
Please do not email your Medicare card, Medicare number or Social Security number. I will send a secure link.
Questions about Medicare
When is Medicare open enrollment for 2027, and what can I change?
Medicare open enrollment runs October 15 to December 7. You can change your Medicare Advantage plan or your Part D drug plan. Changes start January 1, 2027. Medigap supplement plans work differently and are not part of this change window.
Medicare Disclaimer Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent, licensed insurance agency providing Medicare-related insurance services through appropriately licensed and authorized insurance agents.
Our agency is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), or the federal Medicare program.
Our services may include assistance with Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), and other Medicare-related insurance options, subject to current carrier appointments, licensing, and product availability.
We represent selected insurance companies and do not necessarily offer every Medicare plan available in your area.
Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, prescription drug formularies, copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, service area, and coverage year. All plan information is subject to applicable policy terms and changes.
Enrollment is subject to Medicare eligibility requirements, applicable enrollment periods, and plan approval. There is no obligation to enroll when contacting our agency.
Required Medicare TPMO Disclaimer We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 80 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Independent Insurance Agency Disclosure Insurance recommendations and enrollment assistance are limited to products for which our agency and its representatives are properly licensed, appointed, certified, and authorized.
For official Medicare information and a complete review of available Medicare options, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-2048.
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC California Insurance License: 0D83407 Tatiana Gerberg Phone: 619-925-8000 Website: www.Insurance800.com
My Medicare Advantage plan is ending in 2027. What do I do?
Read the notice from your plan. You can choose a different Medicare Advantage plan or go back to Original Medicare with a drug plan. Do not cancel anything before you know your new coverage. If you go back to Original Medicare and want a Medigap plan, approval rules apply. Check them first.
Medicare Disclaimer Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent, licensed insurance agency providing Medicare-related insurance services through appropriately licensed and authorized insurance agents.
Our agency is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), or the federal Medicare program.
Our services may include assistance with Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), and other Medicare-related insurance options, subject to current carrier appointments, licensing, and product availability.
We represent selected insurance companies and do not necessarily offer every Medicare plan available in your area.
Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, prescription drug formularies, copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, service area, and coverage year. All plan information is subject to applicable policy terms and changes.
Enrollment is subject to Medicare eligibility requirements, applicable enrollment periods, and plan approval. There is no obligation to enroll when contacting our agency.
Required Medicare TPMO Disclaimer We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 80 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Independent Insurance Agency Disclosure Insurance recommendations and enrollment assistance are limited to products for which our agency and its representatives are properly licensed, appointed, certified, and authorized.
For official Medicare information and a complete review of available Medicare options, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-2048.
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC California Insurance License: 0D83407 Tatiana Gerberg Phone: 619-925-8000 Website: www.Insurance800.com
Should I review my Part D drug plan every year?
Yes. Drug plans change prices, covered medicines and pharmacies every year. A plan that was good last year may cost more now. Send me your medicine list and pharmacy and I will check it.
Medicare Disclaimer Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent, licensed insurance agency providing Medicare-related insurance services through appropriately licensed and authorized insurance agents.
Our agency is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), or the federal Medicare program.
Our services may include assistance with Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), and other Medicare-related insurance options, subject to current carrier appointments, licensing, and product availability.
We represent selected insurance companies and do not necessarily offer every Medicare plan available in your area.
Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, prescription drug formularies, copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, service area, and coverage year. All plan information is subject to applicable policy terms and changes.
Enrollment is subject to Medicare eligibility requirements, applicable enrollment periods, and plan approval. There is no obligation to enroll when contacting our agency.
Required Medicare TPMO Disclaimer We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 80 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Independent Insurance Agency Disclosure Insurance recommendations and enrollment assistance are limited to products for which our agency and its representatives are properly licensed, appointed, certified, and authorized.
For official Medicare information and a complete review of available Medicare options, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-2048.
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC California Insurance License: 0D83407 Tatiana Gerberg Phone: 619-925-8000 Website: www.Insurance800.com
I will get Medicare soon. What should I do first?
First, confirm your Part A and Part B. Your Medicare window starts three months before the month you turn 65. If you have insurance through work, we check how it fits. After Part A and B are in place, we talk about extra coverage. Please have your Medicare card with the start dates.
Medicare Disclaimer Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent, licensed insurance agency providing Medicare-related insurance services through appropriately licensed and authorized insurance agents.
Our agency is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), or the federal Medicare program.
Our services may include assistance with Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), and other Medicare-related insurance options, subject to current carrier appointments, licensing, and product availability.
We represent selected insurance companies and do not necessarily offer every Medicare plan available in your area.
Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, prescription drug formularies, copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, service area, and coverage year. All plan information is subject to applicable policy terms and changes.
Enrollment is subject to Medicare eligibility requirements, applicable enrollment periods, and plan approval. There is no obligation to enroll when contacting our agency.
Required Medicare TPMO Disclaimer We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 80 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Independent Insurance Agency Disclosure Insurance recommendations and enrollment assistance are limited to products for which our agency and its representatives are properly licensed, appointed, certified, and authorized.
For official Medicare information and a complete review of available Medicare options, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-2048.
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC California Insurance License: 0D83407 Tatiana Gerberg Phone: 619-925-8000 Website: www.Insurance800.com
Can I change my Medicare plan after January 1?
If you are already in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can make one change between January 1 and March 31, 2027. Check your doctors and medicines first. Ask before you cancel anything.
Medicare Disclaimer Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent, licensed insurance agency providing Medicare-related insurance services through appropriately licensed and authorized insurance agents.
Our agency is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), or the federal Medicare program.
Our services may include assistance with Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), and other Medicare-related insurance options, subject to current carrier appointments, licensing, and product availability.
We represent selected insurance companies and do not necessarily offer every Medicare plan available in your area.
Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, prescription drug formularies, copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, service area, and coverage year. All plan information is subject to applicable policy terms and changes.
Enrollment is subject to Medicare eligibility requirements, applicable enrollment periods, and plan approval. There is no obligation to enroll when contacting our agency.
Required Medicare TPMO Disclaimer We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 80 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Independent Insurance Agency Disclosure Insurance recommendations and enrollment assistance are limited to products for which our agency and its representatives are properly licensed, appointed, certified, and authorized.
For official Medicare information and a complete review of available Medicare options, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-2048.
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC California Insurance License: 0D83407 Tatiana Gerberg Phone: 619-925-8000 Website: www.Insurance800.com
Want a second pair of eyes before December 7? Book a free review.
Medicare Disclaimer Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC is an independent, licensed insurance agency providing Medicare-related insurance services through appropriately licensed and authorized insurance agents.
Our agency is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the U.S. government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), or the federal Medicare program.
Our services may include assistance with Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap), and other Medicare-related insurance options, subject to current carrier appointments, licensing, and product availability.
We represent selected insurance companies and do not necessarily offer every Medicare plan available in your area.
Plan availability, benefits, premiums, provider networks, prescription drug formularies, copayments, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs vary by plan, service area, and coverage year. All plan information is subject to applicable policy terms and changes.
Enrollment is subject to Medicare eligibility requirements, applicable enrollment periods, and plan approval. There is no obligation to enroll when contacting our agency.
Required Medicare TPMO Disclaimer We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 9 organizations which offer 80 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
Independent Insurance Agency Disclosure Insurance recommendations and enrollment assistance are limited to products for which our agency and its representatives are properly licensed, appointed, certified, and authorized.
For official Medicare information and a complete review of available Medicare options, visit www.Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY: 1-877-486-2048.
Gerberg Financial & Insurance Agency, LLC California Insurance License: 0D83407 Tatiana Gerberg Phone: 619-925-8000 Website: www.Insurance800.com
