Your Medicare Part D Checklist for 2026: Avoid Surprises and Save Money This Year

Medication Checklist for Medicare Part D Planning

Every year, I meet people who tell me the same thing: “I didn’t realize my prescriptions would cost this much,” or “My pharmacy is suddenly charging more,” or “My medication isn’t covered anymore.” These surprises almost always come from not reviewing Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage—and I completely understand why. Part D plans can be confusing, formularies change every year, and unexpected costs can catch anyone off guard.

That is exactly why I’m so passionate about educating my clients about their Medicare Part D options. As we step into 2026, my goal is to make sure you feel confident, prepared, and protected when it comes to your prescription drug costs. A few simple steps can prevent major headaches, and this checklist will help you start the year strong.

Let’s walk through what you need to know, what you need to check, and how I can help you save money and avoid stress in 2026.

Why Reviewing Your Part D Plan Is Essential Every Year

Even if you’re happy with your plan, and even if nothing about your prescriptions has changed, your plan itself has likely changed. Carriers adjust their formularies, costs, rules, and preferred pharmacies each year.

Reviewing your plan helps you:

  • Avoid unexpected pharmacy bills
  • Make sure your medications are still covered
  • Confirm your pharmacy is still in-network
  • Prevent coverage gaps during emergencies
  • Understand new benefits or restrictions
  • Compare costs and find better value

My clients are often shocked by how different their coverage looks from year to year, and these changes can add hundreds—or sometimes thousands—of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses if you’re not careful.

Step 1: Review Your Medication List Carefully

The first step in managing your Part D coverage is confirming your medication list is accurate, up to date, and complete.

I recommend updating your list with:

  • Medication names
  • Dosages
  • Frequency
  • Brand vs. generic preferences
  • Any medications prescribed in the last few months

Why this matters:
Many plans evaluate coverage differently based on dosage and frequency. Even small changes can mean big cost differences.

If you’re unsure about any part of your medication list, I can help you review it and confirm accuracy.

Step 2: Check Your Plan’s 2026 Formulary

A formulary is simply your plan’s list of covered medications. Plans change their formularies every year, and medications can:

  • Move to a different tier
  • Require prior authorization
  • Require step therapy
  • No longer be covered
  • Have new quantity limits

If your medication moves from one tier to another, for example, from Tier 2 to Tier 3—you could see a major change in cost.

I compare your updated medication list with each plan’s formulary, so you know exactly what to expect before you fill your prescription.

Step 3: Verify Preferred Pharmacies and Pricing

This is one of the biggest areas where clients save money. Many Part D plans use preferred pharmacies, which offer lower co-pays and better pricing.

You need to check:

  • Is your pharmacy still preferred?
  • Does your plan have new preferred pharmacy partnerships?
  • Would switching to a different pharmacy save you money?
  • Are mail-order options more affordable?

Sometimes changing pharmacies can cut prescription costs dramatically. Other times, your current pharmacy remains the best choice. I will help you compare all your options.

Step 4: Review Your Plan’s Deductible and Cost Structure

In 2026, some Part D plans will continue to increase deductibles or change the cost-sharing structure. It’s important to understand:

Medications can move in and out of deductible requirements from year to year, and that can significantly impact what you pay in January and February.

Step 5: Pay Attention to New Restrictions or Requirements

Plans often add utilization restrictions to control costs. Common restrictions include:

  • Prior authorization – Your doctor must request approval before the plan covers the medication.
  • Step therapy – You may need to try a less expensive drug first.
  • Quantity limits – The plan may limit how much medication you can receive at a time.

These restrictions don’t mean your medication is being taken away, they just require additional steps. I help you understand what these rules mean and how to navigate them.

Step 6: Explore Money-Saving Opportunities

There are many ways to reduce your prescription drug costs in 2026, and Part D plans are offering more tools than ever.

These may include:

  • Switching to generic versions
  • Using a preferred pharmacy
  • Using mail-order delivery
  • Checking discount programs
  • Reviewing special chronic-care medications
  • Considering alternative medications your doctor may approve

One of the biggest advantages of working with an independent agent is that I can compare all available options—not just one insurer’s offerings.

Step 7: Understand Your Coverage Gap (The “Donut Hole”)

The coverage gap remains one of the most confusing aspects of Part D. Not everyone enters it, but if you take multiple medications or one high-cost drug, it’s important to know how your plan handles this stage.

I will explain:

  • When the gap begins
  • What you’ll pay during this phase
  • How manufacturer discounts work
  • How you transition into catastrophic coverage

Knowing this ahead of time prevents major surprises throughout the year.

Step 8: Review Your Plan Annually—Even If You’re Satisfied

You may love your plan today—but that doesn’t mean it will be the most cost-effective plan tomorrow.
Formularies shift. Pharmacies change tiers. Deductibles fluctuate.

Each year, I compare all available plans to ensure you still have the best possible combination of:

  • Cost
  • Coverage
  • Convenience
  • Medication support
  • Pharmacy access

The goal is simple: keep your prescription costs predictable and manageable.

Step 9: Ask for Personalized Help Before Making Changes

Choosing a Part D plan isn’t something you should do alone. A plan that looks good on paper may not be the best choice once your specific medications are factored in.

My job is to:

  • Run detailed plan comparisons
  • Explain your cost-sharing options
  • Review your formulary impact
  • Identify potential savings
  • Walk you through your enrollment
  • Support you throughout the year

You deserve someone who understands your unique needs, not just someone who reads a brochure.

Let Me Help You Make 2026 Your Most Prepared Year Yet

Navigating Medicare Part D can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. I’m here to provide clarity, simplify the process, and help you avoid the frustrations, surprises, and unexpected expenses that so many people experience.

If you’re unsure about your plan, want to review your medication list, or simply want to confirm you’re getting the best value, please reach out.

Call me anytime at 239-682-8567

Let’s work together to make sure your prescription drug coverage supports your health, your budget, and your peace of mind throughout 2026.