Can a client join a PDP during the annual coordinated election period?
Yes. Any Medicare beneficiary can enroll in a PDP during the Annual Coordinated Election Period (AEP), which runs October 15 through December 7 each year, with coverage effective January 1 of the following year.
This answer relies on CMS's CY 2027 enrollment guidance, which applies to enrollment requests received on or after January 1, 2027 (and plans may apply it to AEP enrollments effective January 1, 2027).
What the rule says
“(3) For 2011 and subsequent years. Beginning with 2011, the annual coordinated election period for the following calendar year is October 15 through December 7.”
“(1) General rule. Except as provided under paragraph (b)(2) of this section, for an enrollment or change of enrollment in Part D made during an annual coordinated election period as described in § 423.38(b), the coverage or change in coverage is effective as of the first day of the following calendar year.”
CMS guidance confirms who may use this period:
“Occurs: October 15–December 7 every year Effective date: January 1 of the following year Who can use: All Medicare beneficiaries Changes permitted:”
The guidance also notes a timing restriction on when the enrollment request itself may be accepted:
“Although marketing of prospective year plan offerings may begin on October 1 (42 CFR §§ 422.2263(a) and 423.2263(a)), enrollments may not occur until the beginning of the AEP.”
Carrier and FMO rules are often stricter than CMS rules. This tool reports what CMS sources say and is not legal advice. Enrollment guidance shown is the CY 2027 version. Regulation text reflects the CY 2027 marketing rules, which apply to marketing beginning October 1, 2026.
This answer was generated by mapdbot from the sources listed below on September 23, 2026 and checked against them. Regulation text: eCFR as of 09/15/2026. It is for licensed insurance agents, is not legal advice, and does not cover carrier or FMO rules.