Medicare Advantage: 4 things to know about your 2026 plan.

Medicare Advantage plans can change year to year, affecting costs, provider networks, and covered benefits; a special open enrollment period runs Jan. 1–March 31 for switching plans or returning to original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage plans are an alternative to original Medicare for people eligible at age 65. These plans can offer benefits beyond what original Medicare covers and set a cap on annual out-of-pocket spending. They also differ from plan to plan, so coverage rules, networks, and costs can change year to year. The article outlines four points to keep in mind for 2026. Key facts: - Costs can change annually, affecting premiums, deductibles, and copays. - Enrollees still pay Medicare Part B premiums, although some Medicare Advantage plans may cover that premium. - Most Medicare Advantage plans use provider networks; going out of network can be expensive and networks may change each year. - Plans often include supplemental benefits not covered by original Medicare, such as dental care, eye exams, and hearing aids; some plans offer additional services like meal delivery or home cleaning with specific eligibility rules. - A Medicare Advantage open enrollment period runs from Jan. 1 through March 31 each year, during which enrollees may switch plans or return to original Medicare. Summary: These differences can affect how much a person spends on health care in retirement and what services are available under their coverage. The article notes the Jan. 1–March 31 Medicare Advantage open enrollment period as the window for changing plans or returning to original Medicare.