What’s a Plan Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) Letter, and What Should You Do?

What Is an ANOC Letter?

It’s late September, and your mailbox is full. Among the bills and flyers is a thick envelope from your Medicare plan: the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). You might be tempted to toss it aside, but this letter can mean the difference between affordable coverage and unexpected bills next year.

The ANOC is a standardized notice your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan sends each fall to explain any changes to coverage, costs, drug list (formulary), and provider network that will take effect on January 1. (Original Medicare does not send ANOCs; these apply only to private Medicare Advantage and Part D plans.)

CMS requires insurers to follow model templates, so most ANOCs look alike and include sections on premiums, deductibles, copays, provider networks, and drug coverage updates.

Timing matters: Plans must ensure you receive the ANOC by September 30. If you don’t see it by early October, request a copy from your plan. If still unavailable, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

For a refresher on how Medicare’s parts fit together, see the 2026 Guide to Medicare Plans.

Why the ANOC Matters (and What to Look For)

Even if you like your plan today, next year’s version may look very different. The ANOC gives you the details you need to decide whether to stay or switch during open enrollment.

ANOC Quick-Check Table

What to Do with Your ANOC Letter (Step by Step)

1. Skim the “Summary of Changes” page first. Flag any rising costs or reduced benefits.

2. Visit Healthcare.com to compare options online or get matched with a licensed insurance agent to walk you through the changes.

3. Call your doctors and pharmacies. Confirm they remain in-network for the coming year.

4. Get free help. Local State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) provide one-on-one counseling.

5. Decide and act in the right window:

   • Fall Open Enrollment (Oct. 15–Dec. 7): Join, switch, or drop Medicare Advantage/Part D plans (effective Jan. 1).

   • Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (Jan. 1–Mar. 31): One switch or a return to Original Medicare, plus the option to add a standalone Part D plan.

   • Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs): Triggered by moves, loss of other coverage, Medicaid/Extra Help eligibility, or other life events.

💡 Tip: If your ANOC looks fine, you don’t need to do anything—your plan auto-renews. But it still pays to compare, as plans and prices shift each year.

Common ANOC “Gotchas” (and How to Avoid Them)

• Your drug moved tiers: Even generics can move into higher copay tiers. Always check Plan Finder.

• Doctor no longer in-network: Networks shift yearly. Verify participation directly with your providers.

• Shrinking supplemental benefits: Dental or OTC allowances may be reduced. Review both the ANOC and Evidence of Coverage (EOC).

• Higher MOOP: A higher annual spending cap means more financial risk. Compare other plans with a lower MOOP.

Some beneficiaries with chronic conditions may find Special Needs Plans better suited to their care.

Frequently Asked Questions About the ANOC Letter

When should my ANOC arrive?
By law, it must be received by September 30. If not, call your plan.

Does Original Medicare send an ANOC?
No. Only private Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans send ANOCs.

What if I like my current plan?
You can keep it—it will auto-renew. Still, it’s smart to compare.

Can I change later if something’s off?
Yes. If you’re in Medicare Advantage, you can make one switch or return to Original Medicare during Jan. 1–Mar. 31. You may also qualify for Special Enrollment Periods or even move to a 5-star plan if one is available in your area.

If you’re weighing whether to return to Original Medicare, read more about switching from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare.

How to compare Medicare Advantage plans after an ANOC?

Make sure to compare costs, formularies, and networks. For insights on strong plan options, review the best Medicare Advantage companies for 2026.

ANOC Checklist You Can Use Today

• Find your ANOC (paper, email, or online portal).

• Circle any higher costs or reduced benefits for 2026.

• Confirm doctors, hospitals, and pharmacy participation for next year.

• Re-enter prescriptions into Plan Finder and save your profile.

• If unsure, book free SHIP counseling.

• Decide by Dec. 7 (changes effective Jan. 1).

• If you’re in Medicare Advantage and want a redo, remember Jan. 1–Mar. 31.

Bottom Line: Take Charge Before December 7

Your ANOC letter isn’t junk mail—it’s your early warning system. Reviewing it can save you from surprise bills, ensure your drugs and doctors stay covered, and help you choose a plan that fits your needs.

If you’re unsure, don’t go it alone. A licensed Medicare insurance agent via Healthcare.com can guide you. Either way, reviewing your ANOC before open enrollment closes ensures peace of mind for the year ahead.