2025 Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) enrollment updates
Changes are here for D-SNP enrollment periods
As of January 1, 2025, there are new rules for Medicare that may affect when you can sign up for or change your Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP). When you’re eligible for Medicare and also have Medicaid benefits, it can be hard to understand how to get the most out of your coverage. That’s why UnitedHealthcare is here to help you now and as your needs change. From choosing a plan to using your plan, you can count on UnitedHealthcare to help you every step of the way.
What’s changing for D-SNP enrollment periods in 2025?
End of quarterly Special Enrollment Period
If you’re eligible for Medicare and have full Medicaid benefits, there will be a new monthly Special Enrollment Period (SEP) instead of the quarterly ones you may be used to.
New integrated care Special Enrollment Period
During this new Special Enrollment Period, you may enroll in select D-SNPs from the same insurer who manages your Medicaid coverage.
Important 2025 changes explained

Find the right Medicare plan for all your plans
Here's what you need to know:
Quarterly chances to switch between any D-SNP plan now ending
- If you’re eligible for Medicare and have full Medicaid benefits, there will be a new monthly Special Enrollment Period (SEP) instead of the quarterly ones you may be used to.
- Integrated care SEPs allow enrollment in select D-SNPs and Medicaid plans under one insurer.
- Besides this new monthly enrollment period, all dual-eligible beneficiaries can still enroll during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) or a Medicare Special Enrollment Period with a qualifying life event. There may be other opportunities to enroll as well.
*Plans may not be available in all areas/markets
New enrollment rules will make Medicare and Medicaid work better together
- In 2025, if you are eligible for Medicare and have full Medicaid benefits, there will be a new monthly Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that may help combine your Medicare and Medicaid coverage with one insurer.
- During this monthly SEP, you may sign up for a Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP) from the same insurer who manages your Medicaid coverage.
- Qualified plan options for this enrollment period depend on where you live and which insurer you use.
- This Special Enrollment Period does not apply if you have partial Medicaid benefits or just Extra Help, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS).
*Plans may not be available in all areas/markets
Additional resources and materials
Explore videos and articles for more in-depth information about Dual Special Needs Plans in 2025. From choosing your plan to using your plan, we're committed to helping you every step of the way.
What to know about D-SNP enrollment changes in 2025
Starting in 2025, new CMS rules for Medicare may affect how and when you can sign up for or change your Dual Special Needs Plan (D-SNP). When you’re eligible for Medicare and also have full Medicaid benefits, it can be hard to understand how to get the most out of your coverage. From choosing a plan to using your plan, you can count on UnitedHealthcare to help you every step of the way.
Dual Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) Enrollment Changes FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions regarding the new integrated care Special Enrollment Period (SEP).