Big Changes Are Coming for 2026 Medicare Plans. What You Need to Know.

Skinnier benefits, higher premiums and fewer options mean more than a million seniors should shop for new coverage during open enrollment

By Anna Wilde MathewsFollow

Oct. 15, 2025 6:00 am ET

Last year, seniors picking Medicare coverage faced some tough choices. This year might be even worse.

The enrollment period for 2026 Medicare coverage starts Wednesday, and it is likely to be a difficult one for many enrollees. For the second year in a row, big Medicare insurers are getting rid of some plans, trimming popular benefits and increasing out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles.

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