Do I Need To Wait To Change From One Medigap Plan To Another?
Medigap is a health insurance policy that helps Medicare beneficiaries pay for services not covered by Medicare. If you are covered by a Medigap plan and find that it does not adequately meet your needs, you may be eligible to switch to another plan that will serve you better.
Can I Change from One Medigap Plan to Another?
Under Federal Law, you cannot to change Medigap plans unless you are within the open enrollment period or qualify under a special circumstance. Some states may be more generous on this issue and allow switching under special provisions. Call your State Health Insurance Assistance Program to find out if you are eligible to change your Medigap plan.
Do I Need To Wait To Change From One Medigap Plan To Another?
If you are within the open enrollment period, which begins on the first day of the month in which you turn 65, and are enrolled in Medicare Part B, then you can change Medigap plans without a problem and without a waiting period. If you have been covered under a plan for less than 6 months, the new Medigap policy may require you to wait for coverage if you have a pre-existing condition. If you have been covered for 6 months or more, there is no waiting period, even with a pre-existing condition.
If you are not within the open enrollment period and eligible to change your plan, there is a 30-day “free look” period. You have 30 days after purchasing the new plan, while still enrolled in your old plan to compare the costs and benefits to make sure you choose the best one.
If you are not happy with your Medigap plan, you may have the opportunity to change from one Medigap plan to another. Explore your options to find a plan that works for you.
Related posts:
- How Do I Change a Medicare Supplemental Insurance Plan?
- Once I Choose a Medicare Part D Plan, Can I Change It?
- What If I Have A Medigap Plan That Has Been Discontinued?
- Is There A Difference Between Medigap & Medicare Advantage Plan?
- Why Is Medical Underwriting Important For My Medigap Policy?