How to Compare and Self-Enroll in a Medicare Part D Drug Plan
Use Medicare.gov's Plan Finder to compare prescription drug plans, review estimated yearly costs, and enroll online yourself.
Important Notice
This guide was created to help Medicare beneficiaries understand how to compare and enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan using Medicare.gov.
If you are comfortable using online tools and reviewing plan details yourself, Medicare.gov provides a helpful way to compare estimated drug costs and enroll online. If you are not comfortable, please contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or contact your local SHIP office.
Note: This guide is educational only and does not include individualized plan recommendations.
Before You Begin
Gather these items to make the comparison process easier:
The Comparison Process
Step-by-Step Guide
Go to Medicare.gov
Visit Medicare.gov and select the option to compare health and drug plans.
Click "Find Plans Now"
You can log in, create an account, or continue without logging in by entering your ZIP code.
Choose "Medicare Drug Plan (Part D)"
Select the stand-alone Medicare Part D drug plan option.
Answer the Drug Assistance Question
Medicare may ask whether you receive assistance paying for prescription drugs through programs such as Extra Help or Medicaid. Most people will select 'No,' but choose the option that applies to your situation.
This question is generally referring to low-income assistance programs that help pay for prescription costs.
Choose to Compare Drug Costs
Select "Yes" when asked if you want to compare prescription costs and estimated yearly expenses.
Enter Your Medications
Search for each prescription and enter dosage, quantity, and frequency. Repeat until all medications are added.
Choose Your Pharmacies
Select up to five nearby pharmacies. Costs may vary depending on the pharmacy selected.
Compare Available Plans
Plans are generally sorted by estimated yearly cost, including monthly premiums and prescription costs.
Review Carefully Before Enrolling
Keep or Change Your Plan
If your current Part D plan still appears to be the best fit for your needs, you typically do not need to re-enroll.
If your current plan is ending for next year, you would normally receive a notice from the plan in the fall.
Enroll Online
If you decide to switch plans, follow the enrollment instructions provided through Medicare.gov or the insurance carrier website.
Important Reminders
This Guide Is Best For
- Individuals only needing a Part D drug plan
- People comfortable enrolling online
- Existing Medicare beneficiaries reviewing prescription coverage
This guide is intended for people who feel comfortable reviewing plan information and enrolling online themselves.
You May Need Additional Guidance If...
If you are not comfortable comparing plans online yourself, you may wish to contact Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for additional guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Glossary of Common Part D Terms
Premium
The fixed amount you pay each month for your Medicare Part D plan.
Deductible
The amount you must pay out-of-pocket for your prescriptions before your plan begins to pay its share.
Formulary
A comprehensive list of prescription drugs covered by a specific Medicare Part D plan.
Copayment (Copay)
A fixed dollar amount you pay for a prescription after you have met your deductible.
Coinsurance
A percentage of the drug's total cost that you pay after meeting your deductible.
Drug Tiers
Categories that plans use to price drugs. Lower tiers (like generics) generally cost less than higher tiers (like brand-name or specialty drugs).
Prior Authorization
A rule requiring you or your doctor to get approval from the plan before they will cover a certain medication.
Step Therapy
A requirement to try a lower-cost or generic alternative drug before the plan will cover a more expensive prescribed drug.
Quantity Limits
Restrictions on the amount or dosage of a medication you can receive at one time for safety and cost reasons.
Preferred Pharmacy
A pharmacy in the plan's network that offers lower out-of-pocket costs compared to a standard network pharmacy.
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