➤ When is Medicare Supplement open enrollment?
Your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period is the 6 months that start the first month you are both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. It happens once, and it is the best time to buy a plan.
➤ Can insurance companies turn me down during open enrollment?
No. During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, insurance companies must sell you any Medicare Supplement plan they offer in your state, and they cannot charge you more because of your health.
➤ Is there an annual open enrollment for Medicare Supplement plans?
No. Medicare Supplement plans do not have a yearly enrollment window. The fall Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 to December 7, is for Medicare Advantage and Part D, not Medigap. You can apply for a Medicare Supplement plan any time of year.
➤ What happens if I miss my Medicare Supplement open enrollment?
You can still apply, but in most states the insurance company can ask health questions. Based on your answers, it can approve you, charge you more or turn you down, unless you have a guaranteed issue right.
➤ What if I delay Part B because I have coverage from work?
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period does not start until you enroll in Part B. If you keep employer coverage past 65 and sign up for Part B later, your 6-month window starts then.
➤ What are guaranteed issue rights?
Guaranteed issue rights are special situations, like losing employer coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan leaving your area, when insurance companies must sell you certain Medicare Supplement plans without health questions. You usually have 63 days after your other coverage ends to use them.
➤ Can I switch Medicare Supplement plans after open enrollment?
Yes, you can apply to switch at any time. Outside your open enrollment window or a guaranteed issue right, you may need to answer health questions. Some states, like California, Oregon and Illinois, have yearly birthday rules that make switching easier.
➤ Can I get a Medicare Supplement plan if I am under 65?
Federal law does not require insurance companies to sell Medicare Supplement plans to people under 65 on Medicare due to a disability, but many states do. Availability and prices depend on your state.
➤ Is there a waiting period for pre-existing conditions?
Sometimes. During open enrollment, a company can delay coverage of a pre-existing condition for up to 6 months if you did not have other health coverage before. Prior creditable coverage can shorten or remove that waiting period.
➤ Does it cost anything to get help enrolling with MedigapWise?
No. Our licensed insurance agents help you compare plans and apply at no cost, your premium is the same as buying directly from the insurance company, and you are never required to enroll.
