What it is
Switching medigap plans means replacing your current Medicare Supplement policy with a different one. You might stay with the same plan letter and change companies. Or you might move to a different letter, such as from one plan to another with more or less coverage.
Only certain plan letters are sold to people newly eligible for Medicare: Plans A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N, plus high-deductible Plan G. Plans C and F, and high-deductible F, are available only to people who became eligible before January 1, 2020. Plans E, H, I and J were discontinued and are not sold today. If you are searching for Plan H, that is why it does not appear in new plan lists.
Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize Medigap differently, so their plans do not follow the same letter system. Rules about when you can switch also vary by state and can change over time.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many people keep the same Medigap plan for years. Others look again when their premium changes, when they are unhappy with a company, or when their needs change. Both choices are common and reasonable.
When you apply for a new Medigap policy outside certain protected times, a company in many states may review your health history. This is called medical underwriting. Depending on the state and situation, a company may be able to decline an application or change what it offers. Some people have special protections, called guaranteed issue rights, in certain situations.
Some states have extra rules, such as birthday or anniversary windows that allow switching with fewer health questions. These vary widely. It is wise to confirm current rules with Medicare.gov, your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), or a licensed agent before changing anything.
How the right licensed agent may help
A Medigap agent may help you understand whether your state offers any protected switching windows and whether you may qualify for guaranteed issue. An independent licensed agent can often explain how different companies handle applications. This is a possibility, not a promise, and no one can guarantee acceptance.
A visit or call is usually a conversation. The agent may ask which plan letter you have, what you like or dislike about it, and any upcoming changes in your health or budget. Questions you might bring include: Will I need to answer health questions? When does my current coverage end? Is there a gap I should avoid?
It may also help to ask how a switch could affect your Part D drug plan, and how a Medigap plan compares with Medicare Advantage. Medigap generally lets you see any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare, with no networks or referrals, and with predictable cost-sharing. Trade-offs can include generally higher monthly premiums, possible underwriting, a separate Part D plan, and no routine dental, vision or hearing. Medicare Advantage often has lower premiums, an annual out-of-pocket maximum, extra benefits and sometimes drug coverage, but may use networks, prior authorization and copays. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
The bigger picture
Changing coverage can bring up worry, especially if you are comfortable with what you have. Feeling unsure is normal. Taking your time and asking questions may help you feel more at ease with the decision.
Coverage choices touch your finances, your access to care and your peace of mind. If you are also looking for care, Providers.plus may be a helpful place to explore. Whatever you choose, there is no single approach that fits everyone.
Keep in mind
- Do not cancel your current policy until a new one is approved and in place.
- Switching may involve health questions, and acceptance is never guaranteed.
- Rules for open enrollment, guaranteed issue and switching windows vary by state and change over time.
- This page is education only, not insurance, legal, tax or medical advice. Official information is at Medicare.gov.
Take the next step
- Talk with a Medigap agent ↗Jeff Cline on contacts.plus — a person, not a call center.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch medigap plans at any time?
In most places you can apply to switch at any time, but approval may not be guaranteed. Outside protected windows, a company may review your health history. Rules vary by state, so confirm with Medicare.gov, your SHIP, or a licensed agent.
Will I have to answer health questions when switching medigap plans?
Often yes, unless you are in an open enrollment period, have guaranteed issue rights, or live in a state with a special switching rule. This process is called medical underwriting. A Medigap agent may help you understand which situation applies to you.
What is guaranteed issue for Medigap?
Guaranteed issue is a protection that, in certain situations, requires companies to sell you a policy regardless of health. It applies only in specific circumstances, such as certain coverage changes. Check current rules with Medicare.gov or your SHIP.
Can I switch to Plan F or Plan H?
Plan F is available only to people who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. Plan H was discontinued and is not sold today. People newly eligible can look at plans such as A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N.
Should I cancel my old plan before starting a new one?
Generally, no. It is usually wise to wait until the new policy is approved and active so you avoid a gap in coverage. A Medigap agent or your SHIP can help you understand the timing for your situation.
Can a Medigap agent help with switching medigap plans?
A Medigap agent may help you compare options, explain timing and walk through the application. There is no promise of savings or approval. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
Educational resource. 1-800-MEDIGAP shares general information and connects people with independent licensed agents. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.