When could I switch from Medicare Advantage and apply for Medigap?

If you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may be eligible to switch to a Medigap policy during certain enrollment periods. The first opportunity to enroll in a Medigap policy is during your initial enrollment period, which begins on the first day of the month in which you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, you have a guaranteed issue right, which means you can enroll in any Medigap policy that is available in your area without being denied coverage or charged higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions.

After your initial enrollment period, you may still be able to enroll in a Medigap policy during certain special enrollment periods. These special enrollment periods may include circumstances such as losing your Medicare Advantage plan, moving out of your Medicare Advantage plan's service area, or other qualifying events.

Outside of your initial enrollment period and any special enrollment periods, you may still be able to apply for a Medigap policy, but you may be subject to medical underwriting, which means insurance companies can consider your pre-existing conditions when determining coverage and premium rates.

• As early as 60 days before the date, your coverage will end.
• No later than 63 calendar days after your coverage ends.
• Medigap coverage can't start until your Medicare Advantage Plan coverage ends.

If you want to switch to Original Medicare rather than joining another Medicare Advantage Plan. You have the right to buy:

• Medigap Plan A, B, D*, G*, K, or L that's sold by any insurance company in your state.

MedHelpCenter.us recommends that you call the Senior Health Insurance Agency at 813-592-8568 for further explanation.