What is the Annual Notice of Change and why does it matter?

When it comes to being savvy about Medicare, one of the best things you can do is review the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) because this document explains any changes coming to your plan for the upcoming year. It will help you prepare for Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period, Oct. 15 – Dec. 7 each year. Here’s what you should know about your ANOC.

Who sends the ANOC?

Every September, your health insurance company sends you an ANOC, per government requirements. Individuals who receive this document are typically either on a Medicare Advantage plan or a prescription drug plan.

What is the ANOC?

The ANOC is a formal document that outlines any changes to your Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plan that will take effect the following year. The plan benefits for both the current and upcoming year are compared side-by-side to make it easier to see the differences. Changes can include things like:

•    Monthly premium: The amount you pay each month for your plan can go up or down from year to year.
•    Out-of-pocket maximum: The limit on your out-of-pocket medical costs can change each year.
•    Plan benefits such as copays or coinsurances

How will you receive your ANOC?

You will receive your ANOC by email or mail. If you opted to receive email communications from your insurance company when you first enrolled in your plan, then you will receive it via email. Otherwise, it will be mailed to you.

When will your ANOC arrive?

Insurance companies begin sending out their ANOCs in the early part of September. Due to government requirements, individuals enrolled in Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plans must receive their ANOC no later than Sept. 30. 

If you have not received your ANOC by Sept. 30, we recommend contacting your insurance company directly or visiting your insurance company’s website to see if an electronic version is available. As always, our team is ready to help if you would like assistance with contacting your insurance company. 

What to Do Once You Get Your ANOC

It’s very important to review your ANOC and the “Summary of Important Costs” section carefully before Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7 each year) to see if your plan is still a good fit for the upcoming year. Otherwise, you may be caught off guard by changes such as the cost of prescriptions or an increase in copays, which can result in unexpected health expenses.

Have questions?

If you're a RetireMed client and have questions about your ANOC or want to review your plan options, give our Customer Success Team a call at 877.222.1942 or schedule a call and we’d be happy to help. Please make sure you have your current list of doctors and medications available.

If you’re not currently a RetireMed client and have questions about Medicare or individual health insurance, we’re here to help! Schedule a call or contact us at 844.388.6565.