Your Annual Notice of Change: the letter people overlook.
Insights from David Harder, President · Published
Every fall, Medicare plan members get an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). It lists what your plan changes on January 1 — premiums, copays, drug coverage. It is easy to set aside. Our advice: don't.
“That's a big, big thing that people overlook. Those Annual Notice of Change letters will make them realize how important it is to get in front of somebody that knows how to read those and what they've got coming their way.”David Harder, President · Spirit Insurance Group
Watch your standalone drug plan
Many people with a Medicare Supplement also carry a standalone Part D drug plan. For 2027, David is seeing several of those plans move from a low monthly premium — $0, $10, $15 or $20 — to over $100.
“These people are going to have a fit if they don't see that in that ANOC letter. When that thing renews in January, they're stuck with it all year.”David Harder, President · Spirit Insurance Group
Why dropping drug coverage is risky
Canceling a drug plan to avoid a higher premium can backfire. If you go without creditable drug coverage and enroll later, Medicare generally adds a late-enrollment penalty to your Part D premium for as long as you have Part D coverage.
What to do before December 7
- Open your ANOC and find the 2027 premium and drug list (formulary).
- Check that your prescriptions and pharmacy are still covered.
- Compare options during Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 – December 7.
- Bring the letter and your medication list to a conversation with Katie Kopp, our Medicare Advisor.
Educational information, not a recommendation for a particular plan. Plan premiums and benefits vary; see each plan's Annual Notice of Change and Evidence of Coverage. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 7 organizations which offer 60 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
