Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Open Enrollment Period

If you’re approaching retirement age or already enjoying it, you’ve probably heard the term “Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period” or “Medigap Open Enrollment Period”—the terms are used interchangeably. Regardless of the term used, this crucial period affects your retirement healthcare coverage.

In this article, we’ll explain the Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period, who is eligible, when you can enroll, and what you should be cautious of.

What is the Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period?

Medicare Supplement plans can significantly lower your out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare, covering some or all of your Original Medicare out-of-pocket costs. The Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period allows you to purchase Medicare Supplement insurance, also known as Medigap health insurance, without answering medical questions.

Who is Eligible to Enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan?

You can enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan if you are Medicare-eligible. To be eligible to enroll in Original Medicare Part A and Part B, you should meet one of three criteria.

• You’ve turned 65 or older.
• People under 65 with eligible disabilities by the Social Security Administration.
• You have Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

You can apply for a Medigap insurance plan if you are 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B.

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When Does Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Take Place?

The Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period is a six-month window that begins on the first day of the month when you are both 65 years or older and enrolled in Orignal Medicare Part B. This enrollment period is mandated by federal law and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

If you enroll in Part B during a Special Enrollment Period, your Medigap Open Enrollment Period will begin the month after you enroll in Part B.

Are you not sure when your Medigap Open Enrollment Period will start? A Connie Health agent can help—call (623) 223-8884 to speak with a local licensed agent today. Ensure you don’t miss your one-time Medigap enrollment period.

Agent tip:

“Enrolling during the Medigap Open Enrollment Period ensures access to any Medicare Supplement plan you want, at the best price.“

Why the Medigap Open Enrollment Period is Important

The Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period is the best time to enroll to save money and ensure enrollment.

During this period, insurance companies must sell you a policy regardless of your medical history, age, or pre-existing conditions. This means that you cannot be denied coverage, nor do you have to pay higher premiums based on your health problems.

Instead, you can enroll in any Medicare Supplement plan without answering health questions or providing evidence of insurability. During this enrollment period, you can buy a Medigap plan without questions. 

Enrolling during this period is crucial since it’s the only time you’re guaranteed access to a Medigap policy. If you miss this window and don’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you may have to undergo medical underwriting, which can result in higher premiums or coverage denial.

Need Help Deciding The Right Medicare Coverage For You?

• Free, unbiased service
• Compare all major plans and carriers
• Local, licensed insurance agents with 25+ years of experience

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What Happens If I Miss My Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period?

If you miss your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, it’s not certain that you can enroll in a Medigap plan. Insurance companies are not obligated to offer you a plan; you may have to meet medical underwriting requirements. During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, these measures are unnecessary.

However, some scenarios exclude you from undergoing medical underwriting by insurance companies. These include:

• You have “Medigap protections,” also called guaranteed issue rights.
• You have a pre-existing condition and are replacing creditable coverage.
• Insurance companies may provide at least one form of Medicare Supplement policy to individuals with ESRD and Medicare under 65.

The Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period is an essential time when you’re guaranteed access to Medigap coverage, regardless of your health. By understanding what it is, who is eligible, when you can enroll, and what to be cautious of, you can make informed decisions about your healthcare coverage during retirement.

Take the time to evaluate your healthcare needs and budget, compare policies, and ensure you’re getting the coverage you need at a price you can afford. Proper planning lets you enjoy your retirement years, knowing you have the necessary healthcare coverage.

Want to explore Medicare Supplement plans near you? Speak with a licensed agent in your community. Speak to someone today by calling Connie Health at (623) 223-8884.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment take place?

Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period starts when you’re 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. This enrollment period lasts for six months and only happens once.

If you miss your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you may be able to purchase a policy, but there is no guarantee. If you’re able, it may cost more due to past or present health conditions.

When is Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment?

The Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period (Medigap Open Enrollment Period) is unique to you. It begins when you’re 65 and enrolled in Original Medicare Part B.

When is Medigap Open Enrollment?

Medigap Open Enrollment begins when you’re 65 or older and enrolled in Original Medicare Part B.