Medigap Open Enrollment
Understand the six-month federal Medigap enrollment period and other guaranteed-issue rights.
When the six months begin
The federal Medigap Open Enrollment Period starts the first month a person is at least 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B, then lasts six months. It does not start at the general October Medicare plan election or automatically repeat annually. A person with Part B before turning 65 gets the federal age-65 Medigap window when the age condition is met.
Official source: Medicare: Buying Medigap ↗
Protection against medical underwriting
During this federal window an insurer must generally offer any Medigap policy it sells without denying the application because of health history or raising the premium for a pre-existing condition. Medicare notes a limited waiting-period possibility for certain pre-existing-condition benefits in defined cases. Confirm policy start, requested date and premium before cancelling other coverage.
Official source: Medicare: Buying Medigap ↗
Rights outside that window
After open enrollment, underwriting may be allowed and a policy can cost more or be unavailable. Some events create a guaranteed-issue right, such as specified loss of other coverage or certain first-time Advantage trial situations. Those rights can limit eligible letters and require proof and prompt application. State law can add protections, so review the resident state’s rules rather than assuming a nationwide answer.
Official source: Medicare: Buying Medigap ↗ · Medicare: Changing a Medigap policy ↗
Under 65 and disability
Federal law generally does not require Medigap insurers to sell policies to beneficiaries under 65 who have Medicare through disability or ESRD. Some states provide access or additional protection. A person should check the state insurance department before assuming no option exists and should revisit the age-65 federal opening when applicable.
Official source: Medicare: Buying Medigap ↗
Make a dated eligibility file
Retain the Part B effective date, birthday month, employer or plan termination notice and any proof supporting guaranteed issue. Ask an insurer which letters it sells, the underwriting status and the required application receipt deadline. For a change between policies, Medicare describes a 30-day free-look period; avoid dropping an existing policy before the replacement is secured.
Official source: Medicare: Buying Medigap ↗ · Medicare: Changing a Medigap policy ↗