Here is a step-by-step guide for using the Medicare Plan Finder to find and enroll in the best Part D drug plan for 2026:

 

Before You Begin (Gather Information)

 

Before using the Plan Finder, have the following information ready for the most accurate results:

• Your Medicare Number and Effective Dates (if you have your Medicare card).

• Your current Part D plan name (if you have one).

• A complete list of all your prescription drugs, including:

  • Drug Name (Spelling is important)

  • Dosage (e.g., 10mg, 500mg)

  • Quantity (e.g., 30 pills, 90-day supply)

  • Frequency (how often you take it, e.g., once daily)

• A list of the pharmacies you use or would consider using.

 

Instructions for Using Medicare Plan Finder

 

 

Step 1: Start the Search

 

1. Go to the official Medicare website: Navigate to the Medicare Plan Finder on medicare.gov/plan-compare.

2. Enter your information:

   • Enter your Zip Code.

   • Select your County (if prompted).

3. Select your coverage:

   • Choose "Medicare Drug Plan (Part D)"

   • Indicate if you receive Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy), as this significantly impacts costs.

4. Login/Creating an account is optional.

 

Step 2: Enter Your Drugs and Pharmacies

 

1. Add Your Drugs:

   • Search for each prescription drug and add it to your list.

   • Be sure to select the correct Dosage and Quantity for each.

   • Tip: This step is crucial. The Plan Finder uses this information to calculate your total estimated annual drug costs for each plan.

2. Add Your Pharmacies:

   • Enter the names and addresses of your preferred pharmacies.

   • Note: Different plans may offer lower costs at "Preferred" pharmacies (in-network) versus "Standard" pharmacies.

 

Step 3: View and Compare Plans

 

1. View Results: After entering your information, the Plan Finder will display a list of all available Part D Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs) in your area for 2026.

2. Sort the Results: Sort the plans by "Lowest Estimated Annual Drug Cost" to see which plan is projected to be the cheapest based on the drugs and pharmacies you entered.

3. Review the Details (The "Best" Plan): The best plan is not always the one with the lowest monthly premium. You need to look at the Estimated Annual Drug Cost, which includes:

   • Monthly Premiums

   • Annual Deductible

   • Copayments and Coinsurance

4. Check Coverage Details for Specific Plans:

   • Click the "Plan Details" or "View Plan Details" button next to a plan.

   • Verify that all your drugs are on the plan's formulary (covered drug list) and note their specific costs and coverage tier (Tier 1-5).

   • Check for any restrictions like Prior Authorization (PA) or Step Therapy (ST).

   • Review the plan's Pharmacy Network to confirm your preferred pharmacy is in-network.

 

Step 4: Enroll

 

1. Select a Plan: Once you have chosen the plan that offers the lowest total estimated annual cost and covers all your medications with acceptable terms, select it.

2. Enroll Online: Click the "Enroll" button next to the plan you choose. 

3. Confirm the Enrollment: The new coverage will be effective January 1, 2026. Your enrollment in your new plan will automatically cancel your old Part D plan (if you had one). You will receive confirmation materials from the plan you chose.

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  Important Note for the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):

• Dates: October 15, 2025 – December 7, 2025.

• You can change your Medicare Part D plan as many times as you need during this window. Only your last valid selection by December 7 will take effect on January 1, 2026.

• If you don't change plans, your current plan will automatically renew, but its costs and coverage may change for 2026. Always compare plans each year.