A Medicare Supplement (also called Medigap) plan helps pay the costs Original Medicare doesn’t, like the 20% coinsurance. Many people think they can switch Medigap plans every fall. Usually, that’s not true.
Myth: “AEP lets me change my Medigap plan”
The October 15 to December 7 Annual Enrollment Period is for Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans. Medigap works differently. Outside special situations, insurers can ask health questions and decide whether to accept you.
Short on time? Book a free 30-minute Medicare check-up and we’ll do the comparing for you.
When you can get Medigap without health questions
- Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. It’s a one-time, 6-month window that starts the first month you have Part B and are 65 or older (Medicare.gov).
- Your Medicare Advantage plan leaves your area. You get a guaranteed right to buy certain Medigap plans if you switch to Original Medicare (Medicare.gov).
- A “trial right.” If you joined Medicare Advantage when you first became eligible at 65 and want to leave within the first year, you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state (Medicare.gov).
State birthday rules
Some states go further. Sixteen states have a “birthday rule” that lets current Medigap members switch plans around their birthday without medical underwriting (MedicareResources.org). New Mexico’s rule starts January 2027 (MedicareResources.org). Rules vary by state, including whether you can change companies and how long the window lasts.
If you live in a birthday-rule state, put a reminder on your calendar a month before your birthday.
Should you switch at all?
Medigap prices rise over time. Switching to the same plan letter with a different company can sometimes lower your premium for the same coverage. A quick review once a year is worth it.
Quick answers
Do Medigap plans include drug coverage?
No. If you have Medigap, you usually add a separate Part D drug plan.
Can you check if my state has a birthday rule?
Yes. Call us and we’ll tell you your window and your options.
Not sure if your Medicare plan still fits?
Book a 30-minute Medicare check-up. A licensed agent reviews your doctors, prescriptions, and costs, then tells you plainly whether to stay or switch. No cost and no obligation.
Book My Medicare Check-Up or call (786) 730-9658
Prefer to read first? Download the 2027 Medicare Check-Up Checklist.
Related guides
- Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: which is right for you?
- Top 5 Medicare myths debunked
- How to avoid Medicare late enrollment penalties
- Is your Medicare Advantage plan leaving in 2027?
- Medicare Advantage 2027: 5 changes to know
Sources
- Medicare.gov: Choosing a Medigap Policy (official guide)
- MedicareResources.org: The Medigap birthday rule
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 4 organizations which offer 57 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. Simple Start Insurance is a licensed and certified representative of Medicare Advantage organizations and stand-alone prescription drug plans. Each of the organizations we represent has a Medicare contract. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal. Not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This article is general information.
