Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap)

When it comes to enrolling in Medicare Supplements, also known as Medigap policies, the process is more complex compared to other Medicare options like Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug Plans. This complexity is due to several factors:

1. Extensive Underwriting Requirements: Medigap policies often require a series of detailed health questions as part of the application. This is known as underwriting, where insurance companies assess your health status to determine eligibility and pricing.
2. Varied Carrier Protocols: Different insurance carriers have their own underwriting standards and risk tolerance levels. This means that what might be acceptable for one carrier could be a reason for denial by another.
3. Personal Health History Considerations: Your unique health history plays a significant role in the approval process for a Medigap policy. Some conditions may lead to higher premiums or even denial, depending on the carrier's guidelines.

Due to these complexities, self-enrollment in a Medigap policy is not available through our online platform by means of the Medicare Supplement Plans (Medigap) section* of this website. To ensure that you receive the most accurate and personalized assistance, we recommend speaking directly with a Medicare advisor and licensed agent. They are equipped to guide you through the process, answer your questions, and help you navigate the various options based on your individual needs.

Connect with a Medicare advisor and licensed agent by calling 877-977-7026 or by completing the 'INQUIRY FORM' found further down the page as you scroll. 

Choosing the right time to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan can significantly impact your coverage options and costs. It is important to understand the three (3) enrollment guidelines related to these plans:

The Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period is a critical time for beneficiaries. This period lasts for six months, beginning the first month you are both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, you can:

• Enroll in any Medigap plan offered in your state.
• Avoid medical underwriting, which means you cannot be denied coverage or charged higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions.
• Change plans if your needs change, without fear of rejection.

It’s essential to take advantage of this window, as outside of the Open Enrollment Period, you may face medical underwriting and higher costs.

Guarantee issue rights are protections that allow you to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan without medical underwriting under certain circumstances. You typically have guarantee issue rights if:

• You’re enrolled in Medicare Part B and lose other health coverage (like through your employer).
• You’re switching from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare.
• Your current Medigap plan is discontinued.

These rights ensure that you have access to a Medigap plan without being turned away due to health issues, but they are time-sensitive. Be sure to act quickly if you find yourself in a situation that qualifies for guarantee issue.

If you miss your Open Enrollment Period or don’t qualify for guarantee issue rights, you may still apply for a Medicare Supplement plan, but this involves full underwriting. During this process, insurers will review your medical history and may ask for:

• Health questions
• Medical records
• Information on current medications

Underwriting can lead to higher premiums or denial of coverage based on your health status. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the importance of enrolling during your Open Enrollment Period or exercising your guarantee issue rights when available.

A link to the Medigap Chart from Medicare.gov is provided below, where you’ll find a comprehensive overview of all available Medigap policies and the benefits each plan offers. This chart is designed to help you understand the different options, but please remember that eligibility and pricing can vary based on the factors discussed above. (Source: Medicare.gov) 

Click Button | Medigap Chart

• No Guarantee of Coverage: Enrollment into a Medigap policy can be subjected to underwriting approval and state-specific enrollment rules and guidelines. The completion of an application may not guarantee acceptance into a plan.
• Carrier-Specific Rules: Each insurance carrier may have different rules, pricing, and underwriting requirements. An agent will help you find the best fit based on your health history and needs, but final approval rests with the insurance carrier.
• Call for Personalized Assistance: While we strive to provide comprehensive information online, the nuances of Medigap enrollment make it essential to speak with a Medicare advisor and licensed agent, who can offer personalized advice and support.

We understand that discussing insurance options over the phone can sometimes feel daunting. Rest assured, licensed Medicare advisors and licensed agents can help you in a professional, respectful, and supportive manner. Finding the right professional and solution is one of our top priorities.

Please don’t hesitate to call 877-977-7026—a Medicare advisor and licensed agent is available to assist you every step of the way. Please fill out the following 'INQUIRY FORM' to request assistance in finding the right solution.