Essential Information About Medicare Transitions: A Comprehensive Guide
Moving to a new location can bring about a host of changes, and your Medicare coverage is no exception. The rules for adjusting your Medicare plan depend on the type of coverage you have. Here's a breakdown of what you need to know when moving within or outside your plan's service area.
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)
When moving, there's no need to change your Original Medicare coverage as it is accepted nationwide. However, it's essential to update your address with Social Security and Medicare to ensure continuous coverage. You can continue to see any provider that accepts Medicare assignment.
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)
If you're moving within the current plan’s service area, you can keep your current plan, switch to a new plan available in your new location, or return to Original Medicare and sign up for a new Part D plan during the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) triggered by your move.
However, if you move outside your plan’s service area, you must switch to a new Medicare Advantage and/or Part D plan available in the new area during the SEP or return to Original Medicare (automatic if no new plan is chosen) and sign up for a new Part D plan during the SEP if you want prescription drug coverage.
The Medicare Advantage Relocation SEP runs from the month before the move until two months after, allowing plan changes effective up to three months after the move.
Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policies
To change Medigap plans when moving, you apply directly with the new insurer. Outside of guaranteed issue periods, the insurer can accept or deny your application based on health. Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap is standardized nationally, but rates and availability may vary by state, so you may want to shop for a new plan after relocating.
Key Points
- Original Medicare coverage follows you nationwide without needing changes.
- Medicare Advantage and Part D plans are geographically limited; relocation often triggers a Special Enrollment Period to change plans.
- Medigap can be changed by applying at any time but may be subject to medical underwriting outside special circumstances or guaranteed issue periods.
- Always notify your current plan about the move to activate the appropriate SEP.
If you notify your Advantage plan before you move, your SEP starts the month before you move and continues for two more months after you move. After returning to Original Medicare, you can then sign up for a Part D prescription drug plan, and are able to buy a Medigap insurance policy.
When moving, remember to contact your Medicare Advantage plan to disenroll (if necessary) and Social Security to update the mailing address that Medicare has on file for you. In some instances, the insurance company may offer the same plan in your new service area, and you may have the option to enroll in the same plan if they are accepting new members.
[1] Medicare.gov
[2] Social Security Administration
[3] Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
[4] Medicare Rights Center
- If you're moving outside your Medicare Advantage plan's service area, you'll need to switch to a new Medicare Advantage and/or Part D plan within the new area during the Special Enrollment Period (SEP) or return to Original Medicare and sign up for a new Part D plan during the SEP if you want prescription drug coverage.
- When moving to a new location, remember to contact your Medicare Advantage plan to disenroll (if necessary) and update your address with the Social Security Administration to ensure continuous coverage for your health-and-wellness, as various changes may affect your Medicare plans, especially the ico (Medicare Advantage and Part D plans) that have geographical limitations.
