What should I check in my 2027 drug plan?
Your plan can change its drug list, pharmacy network, premium and cost sharing from one year to the next. Review your Annual Notice of Change and compare the 2027 details before you decide to stay or switch.
| Check | Why it matters | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Each prescription | A drug can change tier or require approval. | Is my exact drug, dose and quantity covered? |
| Pharmacy | Preferred and standard pharmacies can have different costs. | Is my pharmacy in network and preferred? |
| Premium and deductible | A low premium does not guarantee the lowest yearly cost. | What will I pay for the year including the deductible? |
| Restrictions | Prior authorization, quantity limits or step therapy may apply. | What does the plan require before it covers my medicine? |
| Other benefits | A Medicare Advantage plan also covers medical care. | Are my doctors and hospitals in its network? |
How do I compare my prescriptions accurately?
Use Medicare Plan Compare to enter your medicines, doses, quantities and pharmacies and review each plan's estimated annual drug and premium costs. Confirm the details with the plan before enrolling.
- Gather the name, strength, quantity and how often you fill each prescription.
- Compare the same prescriptions and pharmacies across the plans you are considering.
- Check whether a drug needs prior authorization, has a quantity limit or requires trying another drug first.
- If you have Medicare Advantage, compare medical coverage and providers as well as prescriptions.
Do not stop or change a prescription because of a plan change without talking with your prescriber. Ask the plan about coverage and available transition or exception procedures.
What are the 2027 Part D deductible and spending limit?
A Medicare drug plan may have a deductible up to $700 in 2027; some have no deductible. In 2027, out of pocket spending on covered Part D drugs is capped at $2,400. After reaching that amount, you pay $0 for covered Part D drugs for the rest of the calendar year.
| Cost | 2026 | 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum plan deductible | $615 | $700 |
| Covered Part D drug out of pocket limit | $2,100 | $2,400 |
Premiums do not count toward the Part D drug cap, and the cap is not a limit on all medical expenses or drugs not covered by Part D. Certain payments made on your behalf can count. The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan spreads eligible drug costs over the year but does not reduce the amount owed.
Could Extra Help reduce my drug costs?
Extra Help is a Medicare program that helps eligible people with limited income and resources pay Part D costs. Some people qualify automatically, including people with full Medicaid, a Medicare Savings Program or Supplemental Security Income. Others can apply.
The amount you pay depends on your eligibility, plan and pharmacy. Medicare and Social Security can explain the rules and application. Do not assume you are ineligible just because you have not applied before.
When can I switch Medicare drug coverage?
Medicare open enrollment is October 15 through December 7, 2026. Medicare must receive your enrollment request by December 7 for a January 1, 2027 start. People in Original Medicare can join or switch a standalone drug plan; people in Medicare Advantage should review how a change affects their whole plan.
Joining a standalone drug plan can affect Medicare Advantage enrollment, so check your current coverage before making a change. Some people have other opportunities to change coverage. A gap of 63 or more consecutive days without creditable drug coverage after your initial enrollment period can lead to a Part D late enrollment penalty.
Can an agent help me review my plan?
We can help compare available plans and explain their costs and coverage. Have your current plan information and pharmacy details available, and check each medicine with the plan. You can also compare plans directly with Medicare.
For a broader look at 2027 premiums, see our Medicare costs guide and Medicare open enrollment guide.
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Enter a birth date to see when your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period starts and ends.We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.
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