Switching Medigap Plans

Can You Switch Medigap Plans?

Yes, you can apply to switch Medigap plans at any time. However, whether you can switch without medical underwriting depends on your situation.

Switching During Open Enrollment or Guaranteed Issue

If you're within your 6-month Open Enrollment Period or have guaranteed issue rights, you can switch to any available plan without health questions or higher rates.

Switching After Open Enrollment

Outside protected periods, you'll typically need medical underwriting to switch plans. The insurance company can:

• Deny your application
• Charge higher premiums based on health
• Impose waiting periods for pre-existing conditions

Reasons People Switch Plans

1. To Save Money

If you're healthy and your Plan G premium increased significantly, switching to Plan N or another company's Plan G might save money.

2. To Get More Coverage

Some people switch from Plan N to Plan G to eliminate copays.

3. Better Company Service

If you're unhappy with customer service, you might switch to a different company offering the same plan.

State-Specific Switching Rights

Some states offer special rights:

• California & Oregon: "Birthday Rule" - 30-day window to switch plans around your birthday
• Missouri: Can switch on your policy anniversary
• Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New York: Continuous or annual guaranteed issue rights

How to Switch Plans

1. Shop and compare rates from multiple companies
2. Apply to new plan (don't cancel old plan yet!)
3. Get approved and set effective date
4. Once new coverage starts, cancel old plan
5. Avoid coverage gaps!