Crucial Medigap Timeframes Explained
Key Timeframes for Guaranteed Issue Rights
- Medigap Open Enrollment Period: This is a one-time, six-month period that begins when the Medicare beneficiary is both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window, beneficiaries can purchase any Medigap policy sold in their state without medical underwriting. (Medicare.gov)
- Trial Right for First-Time Medicare Advantage Enrollees: If the Medicare beneficiary joined a Medicare Advantage plan when they first became eligible for Medicare at age 65, and then decide to switch back to Original Medicare within the first 12 months, they have a guaranteed issue right to purchase any Medigap policy available in their state. (KFF)
- Other Qualifying Events: A Medicare beneficiary may also have a guaranteed issue right if:
- Their Medicare Advantage plan leaves their area or discontinues coverage.
- They move out of their plan’s service area.
- Their plan misled them or didn’t follow Medicare rules.
In these cases, Medicare beneficiaries typically have a 63-day window from the date their coverage ends to apply for a Medigap policy without medical underwriting.