When it comes to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, shopping around helps ensure you’re getting the best deal. But many make the mistake of waiting until the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) to do so. So, when can you apply for a Medigap plan? The answer is anytime, but it’s not as simple as it seems. Here’s how to avoid higher premiums and coverage denials when switching your Medigap plan.
Medigap Open Enrollment Period
Unlike Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) or prescription drug plans (Part D), Medigap plans do not have standardized annual enrollment periods. However, everyone has a one-time window called the Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP). This six-month window automatically begins the month you are enrolled in Medicare Part B.
During your OEP, Medigap plan companies:
- Must sell you any Medigap policy they offer (excluding Plan F or Plan C if you were eligible for Medicare after year 2020)
- Cannot charge you more due to pre-existing health conditions
- Cannot make you go through medical underwriting
If you decide you want a different Medigap plan during these six months, you can switch easily without medical underwriting.
Switching After Open Enrollment: Medical Underwriting
Technically, you can apply to switch your Medigap plan at any time of the year. However, if you are outside of your initial six-month window, you will generally be subjected to medical underwriting.
The new insurance company will review your medical history, current health status, and prescriptions. Based on their findings, they can legally:
- Charge you a higher monthly premium
- Impose a waiting period for pre-existing conditions
- Refuse to sell you the policy entirely
But, if you qualify for Guaranteed Issue Rights or live in a state with added Medigap protections, you may be able to bypass medical underwriting.
When You Can Switch Risk-Free
There are a few scenarios where you can bypass medical underwriting and purchase a Medigap plan:
1. Guaranteed Issue Rights
You may be eligible for guaranteed issue rights if you experience extenuating circumstances including, but not limited to, the following:
- Your current Medigap insurance company goes bankrupt, or your coverage ends due to no fault of your own
- You have a Medicare Advantage plan, and your plan stops giving care in your area or you move outside the plan’s service area
- You dropped a Medigap plan to try Medicare Advantage for the first time, and you want to switch back within the first year using your “trial right”
Keep in mind that you may be limited to certain plan letters when using your Guaranteed Issue Rights to purchase a Medigap plan. These rights are offered under a limited window which varies depending on your situation.
2. State-Specific Rules
Some states have unique laws that allow residents to switch Medigap plans periodically without underwriting.
The Birthday Rule: Generally, this allows you to switch to a Medigap plan with equal or lesser benefits around your birthday each year. As of July 2026, 16 states have birthday rules in effect and several more are considering adding these protections.
Continuous Open Enrollment: This allows you to switch your Medigap plan year-round. Connecticut, New York, and Vermont all offer year-round Medigap Open Enrollment.
Keep in mind that since each state establishes its own rules, plan and carrier selection guidelines can vary, as well as timing. If you live in a state that offers these added protections, be sure to take advantage of them wisely when switching your Medigap plan.
But Wait—Avoid This Mistake Before You Switch
Before dropping your old policy, always apply for the new Medigap plan first. Wait until you are officially accepted by the new insurer before canceling your old coverage. This ensures you are still covered in the event your new application hits a snag.
Bottom Line
While you can apply for a Medigap plan at any time, understanding when it’s more advantageous to do so is key. Find out whether you qualify for Guaranteed Issue Rights or live in a state with added Medigap protections before you switch. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, consult a licensed insurance agent who can explain your options.
For help with Medicare Supplement or any other Medicare plans, contact AMAC’s Medicare Advisory Service at 1-855-611-4856 or request a call.
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