Year-End Medicare Checklist: What to Review Before January 1

If you're turning 65 soon or already enrolled in Medicare, this time of year is a good moment to hit pause, take stock, and make sure everything is squared away for the year ahead. It doesn’t need to be complicated—just a quick review to make sure your coverage still fits your needs.

Here’s a simple checklist to guide you through it.

Review your coverage for the new year

If you already enrolled or made changes during the fall enrollment window, your new plan will go into effect January 1. Take a few minutes to look over your updated coverage.Ask yourself:

• Has your premium changed?

• Are your doctors still in-network?

• Are your prescriptions still covered?

• Are there any new benefits you didn’t have before?

If you didn’t make changes, your current plan may have updated on its own. Make sure you understand how that affects you.

Take another look at your prescription drug coverage

Even small shifts in your medications can make a difference. Before the year starts:

• Check if all your prescriptions are still included

• Look up what each medication will cost you in 2026

• If you use a local pharmacy, compare their pricing to mail-order options—it might save you money

This is also a good time to reach out to your pharmacist. Many can help you walk through your plan and spot ways to reduce costs.

Use your preventive benefits

Medicare includes many preventive services that don’t cost you anything. That includes things like:

• An annual wellness visit

• Screenings for diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers

• Vaccines, including the flu shot

If you haven’t made use of these yet, it’s a great thing to add to your calendar as the new year begins.

Create your online Medicare account

If you haven’t done this yet, go to Medicare.gov and set up your account. You’ll be able to check your coverage, see your claims, update your info, and print your card if needed. It’s one of the easiest ways to stay on top of things.

If you’re still figuring it out, talk to us

Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. If you’re unsure whether your plan is a good fit—or you’re turning 65 soon and just starting to look into your options—it helps to talk with someone who knows the ins and outs. We can help you understand your choices, avoid penalties, and feel confident heading into the new year. Just give us a call!