Can I change my Supplemental/Medigap plan at any time?

Answered by 141 licensed agents

Medicare Supplement plans can be changed anytime, however, they may be subject to underwriting depending upon the time period that you’re trying to enroll.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change your MediGap plan at any time, but you will most likely have to go through underwriting. That means that depending on how you answer health questions, the carrier can deny you coverage.

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer on April 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ & CA

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change any time, however you may need to answer medical questions.

Depending on the state you live in that has a birthday rule, you can change each year on your birthday. Some states let yoy change on policy anniversary

Answered by Mike Alexander on October 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 16 other states

Answered by Mike Alexander Medicare Insurance Agent
Supplement plans can be applied for at anytime. However, depending on how long you have had your Medicare you may need to pass underwriting to change plans. If you do change supplements, you will need to wait till an official enrollment period to change your PDP, as they follow the same rules as Medicare Advantage plans.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on September 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you may change a supplement whenever you like but not a good decision. I can shop for you on that also.

Daniel Brechin

Answered by Daniel Brechin on July 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in AL, FL, KY, MS & TN

Answered by Daniel Brechin Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes! But if you go from a lower plan to a higher plan, you will be susceptible to the Underwriting guidelines again, and could be denied, should you have had any issues. You can also move from company to company with the same guidelines, and have to be approved through Underwriting again.

Answered by Norman Smith on August 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, NJ & PA

Answered by Norman Smith Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes you can. When a person first goes on Medicare and gets a supplement, there are no medical questions. You’re just accepted. After that when you change plans at anytime of the year, you will be asked medical questions and underwritten. They can accept you, decline you and some companies can offer you acceptance with a different price.

Tim Brown

Contact me.

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown on July 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, CO & 10 other states

Answered by Lt Col Tim Brown Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can change your Medigap plan at any time, but you will be subject to underwriting and health questions. However, if you wait until the anniversary month of when your Medigap plan became effective, you may switch plans with no underwriting or health questions.

Answered by William Lawler on May 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, FL, IA & 12 other states

Answered by William Lawler Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, at any time. However, you may require medical underwriting approval. Except for the three months before your 65th birthday month, the month of your 65th birthday, three months after your 65th birthday, or 63 days after working past 65 with a company group insurance plan of 20 or more. Then there are no medical underwriting requirements within those timelines.

Answered by Larry Dalton on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK & TX

Answered by Larry Dalton Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can change your Medigap plan at any time during the year, and go with whoever you like. There are no special election periods, you just simply need to qualify from an underwriting stand point and you can go to any insurance carrier that you like.

Answered by George Ibanez on August 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in AR, AL, AZ & 40 other states

Answered by George Ibanez Medicare Insurance Agent
There are several ways you can change your Medigap plan during the year but beware of what is required. If you choose to switch plans outside of annual enrollment, you could be subject to underwriting in which the insurer will decide if you qualify or will receive a higher rating = higher premium because of a pre-existing condition.

If you move to another state that will trigger an SEP "special enrollment period" and if your plan were to be terminated or canceled by your insurer you would have the same right. And the best part of those events is that it is also considered a guaranteed issue ie no underwriting.

Lastly, many states have or are enacting a "Birthday Rule" whereby you can change to another less expensive plan during your birth month for a 30 to 63 window.

Answered by Mark Maliwauki on October 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 13 other states

Answered by Mark Maliwauki Medicare Insurance Agent
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Voss Speros, Greek god of Medicare, talking about Medicare today. So the question is, can I change my supplemental Medigap plan anytime during the year? Yes, in theory, but no, there are election periods and times when you can change it, and you get a couple of times during the year. But if you drop your Advantage plan and you apply for a supplement, depending on the situation, then yes, you can do that.

So I'd be aware that some states have a birthday rule. On your birthday, you can change your plan to the current or a lesser version of it. So yes, there are some ways to make changes during the year depending on your current situation, your healthcare situation, and what's going on. Really, it depends on everything. There are a lot of variables. So give us a call, call a broker, and make sure you're doing it the right way.

Answered by Voss Speros on June 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, CO & 19 other states

Answered by Voss Speros Medicare Insurance Agent
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Hi, good evening. Charise Karjala with Health Markets Insurance Agency in my office in Palm Desert, California. This is sort of a nationwide question because it applies to Medigap policies, which are nationally administered and standardized.

So the question is, can I change my supplemental or Medigap plan at any time? The quick answer to that is yes and no. The birthday rule is the one that applies to the month of your birthday, where you can change your plan without going through underwriting. Generally speaking, that's the safest assumption to make. You, as a consumer, should plan to do a review each year with your agent or with the carrier, or shop it amongst the carriers to make sure you’ve got the best pricing. That’s just a matter of discipline.

I don’t know about you, but in the year 2024 to 2025, we’ve seen some pretty substantial price increases in the Medigap policies. So I have lots of people right now who are shopping their Medicare policies, and they understand that the birthday rule is the time to shop their policy, where they can freely go between carriers. Within carriers, they will allow you at times to move down, so for example, from an F to a G, or a G to an N, or an N to an L, but not necessarily move up unless it’s a birthday period.

The other option, if you want to switch a carrier in the middle of the year, is that more than likely you’ll need to go through medical underwriting, which for some people is easy peasy, no problem, but for others, it’s daunting.

So, rule of thumb: can I change it at any time? Yes, but do it during your birthday month, or you risk having to go through underwriting and not getting the advantage of being able to do your cost savings. Just make sure you’ve got a good agent or somebody on your side who’s shopping your plan each birthday. Just ask them to run the prices, or use an agent broker like me. I’ll leave that one with you for now, and keep the questions coming!

Answered by Charise Karjala on May 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, CO, PA & WA

Answered by Charise Karjala Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes you can-however once enrolled in a Supplemental/Medigap plan and you want to change -most companies will require you to be "medically qualified" by answering the medical questions on the new application! PS Always look for companies that are Financially Stable!

Answered by Tony Capraro III on March 27, 2025

Agent Licensed in NH & ME

Answered by Tony Capraro III Medicare Insurance Agent
You have a guarantee issue enrollment period when you first become eligible, due to turning 65 or coming off of a group health plan after age 65. Once you pass this initial enrollment period and want to change plans you may be required to go through underwriting to see if the insurance company deems you insurable. The only exception I know of is, if you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan and then decide you want to go to a Medigap (Supplement plan), You can, during the first year of coverage. This is called a Special Enrollment Period ( SEP). It is called your Trial right SEP. You can always go back to a Medicare Advantage plan, as there is no underwriting with these products. However, if you want to change from one company Medigap to another you would be subject to underwriting.

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF on June 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, GA, IN, KY & TN

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF Medicare Insurance Agent
Perhaps, but in some or most states, you may be subject to underwriting. This again varies by state, so reach out to us for your options for available solutions.

Answered by Ronnie Robinson Jr on August 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, GA & 9 other states

Answered by Ronnie Robinson Jr Medicare Insurance Agent
If you can pass underwriting. Other than that you can only change upon your birth month if you reside in a birthday rule state.

Answered by Ray McCauley on May 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, FL & ID, NV, SC & TN

Answered by Ray McCauley Medicare Insurance Agent
No. Most MediGap plans cannot be changed annually as Medicare Advantage plans can be. Some states have a ‘Birthday Rule’ which enables beneficiaries to change MediGap plans within a certain time frame around their birthdays.

Answered by Christy Jones on September 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Christy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent
Good question! Generally, you can change your Medigap plan anytime, but there are some important things to keep in mind:

Outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (which lasts six months starting the month you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B), insurance companies can use medical underwriting. That means they can review your health history and may deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions.

During the Open Enrollment Period, you have a guaranteed issue right to buy any Medigap plan without medical underwriting.

Some states have additional protections or open enrollment periods—it's worth checking local rules.

You can also switch Medigap plans without underwriting if you move out of your plan’s service area or if your current plan is discontinued.

If you’re thinking about changing your Medigap plan, it’s a good idea to talk to a licensed agent who can guide you through the timing and options based on your situation. Would you like help with that?

Contact us for help.

Answered by Steven Graves on July 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Steven Graves Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes. You’re always allowed to apply, regardless of the time of year.

But outside your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the 6 months after you first enroll in Part B), insurers can:

1. Require medical underwriting

2. Deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on health conditions

Answered by Nikki Rowland on August 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC & NC

Answered by Nikki Rowland Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change your Supplement Plan (Medigap) at any time you want. You are not subject to the AEP time. We help people change Medigap Plans all year long to save money. Contact me.

Answered by Nick Mangini on October 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 32 other states

Answered by Nick Mangini Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes! Medicare Supplements operate differently than Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) and Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)>

However, you may be subject to medical underwriting. If you proceed with an application, do not cancel your current Medicare Supplement or Medigap coverage until you are approved and the policy is issued with the new insurance carrier.

There are many reasons for changing a Medicare Supplement plan. Many insurance carriers can choose to increase a premium on the anniversary date and some may even increase your premium twice a year corresponding to their fiscal year and your anniversary date.

Some carriers may choose to close out a certain block of business at any time which prevents new beneficiaries from entering the same plan. When this happens, a combination of factors happens such as beneficiaries exiting the plan, some beneficiaries become deceased, and those beneficiaries still alive tend to have more claims with age which could require that insurance carrier to increase premiums even further.

Answered by Steven Whetstine on July 4, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ, AL, AR & 29 other states

Answered by Steven Whetstine Medicare Insurance Agent
Only during OEP, AEP or have an SEP.

Answered by Robert Pennington on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC, GA, SC & VA

Answered by Robert Pennington Medicare Insurance Agent
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Can you change your supplement plan, your Medigap plan, at any time? Technically, yes. The general rule is there is not an enrollment period for your Medicare supplement plan. Now, one thing to consider in most states is that after you've already been on Medicare for a certain period of time, if you want to change your supplement plan or enroll in a different one, there may be medical underwriting. The insurance company may ask about your current or past health history. Based on that, the insurance company may decide to charge you more money or to not cover you at all. So, yes, while you can change your supplemental plan at any time, you may not be able to based on the insurance company's underwriting process and your health or condition. In those circumstances, I hope that provides some direction. Until next time, be healthy and be well.

Answered by Andrew Firmin on April 8, 2026

Broker Licensed in MA, CT, DE & 13 other states

Answered by Andrew Firmin Medicare Insurance Agent
You can shop and apply for a new Medigap plan anytime during the year, so you’re not stuck waiting for a specific window. The catch is, outside of certain situations, you’ll have to answer health questions to switch. Some states do have special times throughout the year where you can move plans without that. Working with a local Medicare agent can help you figure out what’s available to you.

Answered by Jason Denniston on May 12, 2026

Broker Licensed in IN, CO, FL & 10 other states

Answered by Jason Denniston Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, each year Medigapn plans may increase their premiums slightly, or in some cases significantly.

You can, at anytime change from one Medigap Plan to another of equal, greater or lesser coverage for private or service.

Each insurance company has to cover the exact same things with each plan, so changing from a G plan from insurance company 1 to insurance company 2 will be the same, except the premium may be less or the service is better.

Whatever your reason, you just need to make sure you don't have a lapse in coverage so you keep your guaranteed issue status.

Your insurance advisor can help you with this.

Answered by Esther Miller on April 27, 2026

Agent Licensed in WA

Answered by Esther Miller Medicare Insurance Agent
Technically yes, but it depends on your state’s rules. In most states, you can apply anytime — but you may have to answer health questions and could be denied. Some states have more flexible rules, so it’s worth checking.

Answered by Brian Krantz on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, AK, AL & 48 other states

Answered by Brian Krantz Medicare Insurance Agent
Technically, yes — you can apply to change your Medigap (Supplement) plan at any time during the year. However, outside of your initial enrollment window, most insurance companies will require you to go through medical underwriting, meaning they can ask health questions and may deny or rate your application based on your medical history.

There are some exceptions called “guaranteed issue” situations, where you can switch without underwriting. We can review your situation and help determine if one of those applies to you.

Answered by Kate Spilsbury on November 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AZ, CA & 7 other states

Answered by Kate Spilsbury Medicare Insurance Agent
You can apply to change your Medigap plan at any time, but outside of protected enrollment windows you will have to go through medical underwriting, meaning carriers can charge you more or deny you based on your health history. The best time to enroll is during your six month Initial Enrollment Period when you first get Part B, because during that window no one can deny you or charge you extra due to pre-existing conditions. Some states have more favorable rules than others, and certain life events like losing employer coverage can trigger guaranteed issue rights outside of that initial window. If you are considering a switch, talk to an independent agent first so you fully understand your options and rights before you apply.

Answered by Nicholas Depke on March 29, 2026

Broker Licensed in NE, AZ, FL & 15 other states

Answered by Nicholas Depke Medicare Insurance Agent
You can! However, you'll have to go through medical underwriting, which you can be denied coverage at that point. Doesn't mean you'll be canceled off the plan you're currently on, but after your Initial Enrollment Period, you have to be approved to change Supplement plans. Even if you're going from same carrier, just to a different plan, still need the underwriting questions answered.

Answered by Ryan George on February 3, 2026

Broker Licensed in PA, AK, AL & 49 other states

Answered by Ryan George Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, but with few exceptions, you will need to answer medical questions and you will be underwritten. You could be denied if you answer yes to certain medical questions.

Answered by Joanna Finnegan on August 6, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AR, AZ & 31 other states

Answered by Joanna Finnegan Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, in Washington State, you can change your Medicare Supplemental (Medigap) plan at any time during the year, but there are specific rules depending on your current plan. Unlike most states, Washington has a unique "Right to Change" law that offers year-round guaranteed issue for existing Medigap policyholders, meaning you can switch plans without medical underwriting in certain cases. Here’s how it works:

If you have Medigap Plan A: You can only switch to another Plan A offered by a different insurer without undergoing medical underwriting. You’re limited to staying within the same plan letter.

If you have Medigap Plans B through N: You can switch to any other plan between B and N (e.g., from Plan G to Plan N, or Plan B to Plan F) at any time, also without medical underwriting. This gives you more flexibility to adjust coverage or premiums.

Key Conditions: You must already be enrolled in a Medigap plan to use this rule. If you’re coming from Original Medicare alone or a Medicare Advantage plan, you can’t switch to a Medigap plan under this guaranteed issue provision—you’d need to apply normally, which might involve health questions outside your initial 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period or a Special Enrollment Period.

Practical Steps: To switch, contact the new insurance provider, apply for the desired plan, and, once approved, cancel your old plan. There’s no specific enrollment window like the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7) that applies to Medicare Advantage or Part D—Washington’s rule lets you do this anytime.

This flexibility is a big perk in Washington compared to most states, where switching outside specific periods often requires passing medical underwriting, risking denial or higher rates due to health conditions. Just make sure the new plan fits your needs—compare benefits and premiums carefully with your Medicare Insurance broker, as costs can vary by insurer even for the same lettered plan.

Answered by Charles Fletcher on March 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in WA, AZ, ID, NV & TN

Answered by Charles Fletcher Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes and No! While you can certainly change your Medigap plan at any time during the year, unless you have guaranteed issue rights (Based on state or personal situation), you may have to answer health questions and be subject to underwriting - meaning the insurance company does not have to approve you for coverage. But do not fear! A "decline" by an insurance company doesn't carry too much weight - it just means they don't want to provide you coverage. Every insurance company will look at you differently, so there is potential that another company will happily provide you your coverage. AND, as long as you continue to pay your premiums on your existing coverage, your existing company will continue to honor their promises and coverage.

Answered by Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI on August 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC & SC

Answered by Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI Medicare Insurance Agent
Sure, as long as you remain healthy and can be medically underwritten. In Florida you get a free shot at a Supplement at 65 with no medical questions. After that there will be questions and you have to pass underwriting or you may be declined.

Answered by Mark Garrett on October 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 19 other states

Answered by Mark Garrett Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes you can. AEP and OEP are only for MAPD and PDP plans Medicare Supplement or GAP plans are not subject to the AEP

Answered by Jeffrey Jon on December 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Jeffrey Jon Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, however if you are not in a "guaranteed issue" period - like when you're first turning 65 or coming off your employer's insurance - it will be fully underwritten (with various health questions).

Answered by Sherry Stone on October 21, 2025

Agent Licensed in IA & IL

Answered by Sherry Stone Medicare Insurance Agent
You can apply to change your Medicare Supplement plan at any time during the year—but that doesn’t always mean you’ll be approved.

In most cases, switching plans requires answering health questions (underwriting). If you’re in good health, it can be a great way to lower your premium or improve your coverage. But if you have certain conditions, you could be declined.

There are some situations where you can switch without underwriting—like when you first turn 65, lose other coverage, or qualify for certain guaranteed issue rights—but those are specific windows.

This is one of those areas where timing really matters, so it’s worth reviewing your options before making a move to see what’s actually available to you.

Answered by Michael McGarrigle on April 8, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, AR, DE & 13 other states

Answered by Michael McGarrigle Medicare Insurance Agent
ChatGPT said:

Great question — the answer is yes, but with conditions.

You can apply to change your Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan at any time of year, BUT…

You may have to pass medical underwriting

Outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the 6 months after you first enroll in Part B), insurance companies can:

Ask health questions

Deny your application

Charge you more based on your health

When You Can Change Without Underwriting:

During Your Initial Medigap Open Enrollment

Starts the first month you have Part B and are 65 or older

No health questions, guaranteed approval

If You Have a Guaranteed Issue Right

You may qualify if:

You’re losing other coverage (like a Medicare Advantage plan or employer coverage)

Your insurance company goes bankrupt or misleads you

You move out of your plan’s service area

Pro Tip:

Don’t cancel your current plan until you’ve been approved for the new one in writing. You don’t want to be left without coverage.

Answered by Joseph Ritter on July 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, AZ, DE & 7 other states

Answered by Joseph Ritter Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes! As long as you can pass underwriting in some situations. Also depending on where you live or where you signed up, you may not be required to answer health questions.

Answered by Bryan Smith on March 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in UT, AL, AR & 35 other states

Answered by Bryan Smith Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes. However, for approval, you'll likely be subject to medical underwriting questions. If you have a perfect bill of health you can change anytime. If not, you'll likely be declined.

Answered by Shawn Brown on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, CO & 7 other states

Answered by Shawn Brown Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can apply to change your Medigap/Medicare supplement at any time however you must be aware that after your Medigap Open Enrollment period of 6 months ends, Insurance companies can ask health questions (medical underwriting)

Answered by Kim Cotten on May 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, CA & 12 other states

Answered by Kim Cotten Medicare Insurance Agent
No. But there are specific times throughout the year that you could change. Speaking to an agent would help confirm that eligibility.

Answered by Wendy Lollar on January 19, 2026

Broker Licensed in LA, AR, FL, MS & TX

Answered by Wendy Lollar Medicare Insurance Agent
It depends on your health and medications. You are allowed to apply to change a Medigap/ Supplemental anytime but the Medigap/Supplemental company is not required to accept you into the plan at the guarantee issue price or accept you at all even if you do apply unless you are in a Guarantee Issue period or you are in your initial enrollment period.

Answered by Jill Belvin on March 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX, AZ, FL, MI & NJ

Answered by Jill Belvin Medicare Insurance Agent
Great question…

The Qualified answer is yes… Why Qualified? Because applying for a Medicare Supplement or MediGap Plan is normally subjected to medical questions and underwriting. So if you are within a guaranteed issue period or have no disqualifying conditions and or automatic deniable medications, you could change plans between companies or within the same company anytime.

But if you are outside the guaranteed issue time frames and are like some of my clients with heart or other problems and are taking medications like Eliquis (a blood thinner) you will be immediately denied the change. But don’t worry…as long as you pay the premium on the current policy, you can never be cancelled no matter how sick you become.

Answered by Gregory Firmbach on September 7, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, NJ, OH, PA & TX

Answered by Gregory Firmbach Medicare Insurance Agent
One of the reasons people like Medicare Supplement plans is that you can change that supplement to another any time of the year. Medicare Advantage plans have enrollment periods the you must abide by, and generally are required to stay in that plan for the entire year. That being said, after the initial enrollment period ends, a person's application will go through underwriting and they must be able to answer those health questions to the satisfaction of the particular insurance company.

Answered by Patrick Bullock on March 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, DE, FL, NJ & VA

Answered by Patrick Bullock Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change your Supplement/Medigap plan anytime during the year but in most States, you will need to pass medical underwriting. This is basically answering a number of medical questions and the carrier will determine if you qualify. If most cases, you should be able to save money.

Answered by William Lewkowski on April 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, AR & 30 other states

Answered by William Lewkowski Medicare Insurance Agent
Plans can only be changed at certian times of the year. Ask a good agent if your not happy with your plan what your options are to move.

Answered by Michael Brady on December 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ut, AL, AZ & 6 other states

Answered by Michael Brady Medicare Insurance Agent
You can apply at any time, but you may not be accepted at any time. Medicare supplement (Medigap) plans do not have a nationwide yearly enrollment period like Medicare Advantage (Part C) or standalone Prescription Drug (Part D) Plans do.

Rules do vary from state to state, but in general, there is a one-time Open Enrollment period for Medigap plans - this is the first 6 months after your Part B effective date. In this 6-month period, you can enroll in any Medigap plan you want regardless of your health. After this period, you will most likely have to go through underwriting (i.e. answer questions about your health history) to enroll in a Medigap plan. If you have a serious health condition, you may not qualify. Find a competent agent/broker to help you with this process because each insurance company has their own rules for what they will accept or deny.

Some states have guaranteed issue (i.e. you must be accepted regardless of your health) rules such as a birthday rule, which will give people an opportunity to change plans yearly. Check with an agent/broker to see if you have that opportunity in your state.

Answered by Shane Bullock on March 11, 2025

Broker Licensed in UT, AZ, FL & 9 other states

Answered by Shane Bullock Medicare Insurance Agent
You can cancel your Supplement/Medigap plan at any time of the year. You don't need to wait for an enrollment period. Once you have been on Medicare Part B for over a year with your Supplement, you would have to answer health questions and qualify medically in order to qualify for a new policy. Medicare beneficiaries usually look to change plans when their current premiums have increased, and want the same plan but with lower premiums.

Answered by Phillip Lovelady on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Phillip Lovelady Medicare Insurance Agent
The answer is “Yes, you can.” HOWEVER, there are qualifications that must be met before the change can go into effect. In order to change any time during the year you must answer underwriting questions about your health history and have no disqualifying conditions. If this condition is met the policy will go into effect.

Answered by Greg Milliser on March 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, AR, IN, KS, OH & OK

Answered by Greg Milliser Medicare Insurance Agent
It depends on the state, but in Texas, you can change your Supplemental/Medigap plan once per year at any time. If you change it outside your six-month Open Enrollment Period or outside of a Guarantee Issue (GI) period, you may have to answer medical underwriting questions that determine your eligibility for coverage.

Answered by Mackenzie Anderson on July 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Mackenzie Anderson Medicare Insurance Agent
You can apply to change your Medicare supplement plan at any time during the year.

In most cases, you will need to answer health questions.

Approval is not guaranteed unless you qualify for a special situation.

Answered by Denise Johnson on March 17, 2026

Agent Licensed in NC, FL, ME, SC, VA & WV

Answered by Denise Johnson Medicare Insurance Agent
It depends on what you are changing to. Can you switch from one Medicare Supplement to another at anytime - yes you may, but there will most likely be underwriting involved. Outside of turning 65 or leaving employer group health insurance there are few opportunities to change a Medicare supplement without being asked health questions. If you do not have health issues changing plans can be very easy.

If you are wanting to change from a Medicare Supplement to a Medicare Advantage plan, that needs to occur during the Annual Enrollment Period from October 15th to December 7th each year.

Answered by Jolynn Allen on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in CO

Answered by Jolynn Allen Medicare Insurance Agent
You are able to change your Medicare supplement plan at any time, but you will need to qualify through underwriting. Your health will determine if you qualify for another plan. Some states have special enrollment periods sometimes known as the birthday rule. If you live in a state that offers these periods, you will have a time window around 60 days from your birthday to change your supplement without underwriting.

Answered by Frank Buonomo on April 21, 2025

Agent Licensed in NV, CA, ID & IL, NM, OR & TX

Answered by Frank Buonomo Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change at any time of the year, however, you will be subject to Medical underwriting when changing from one Supplemental/Medigap plan to another unless you are eligible for a Guaranteed Issue enrollment.

Answered by Frank Souk on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in WI, AL, AR & 40 other states

Answered by Frank Souk Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change without underwriting 30 days before your birthday in 60 days after. I would suggest this due to possible decline if they have to do underwriting.

Answered by Sonya Tomovich on April 27, 2026

Agent Licensed in CA, AZ, NV & 5 other states

Answered by Sonya Tomovich Medicare Insurance Agent
You may change your supplemental/medigap plan, 12 months out of the year. You are not bound by the Annual Enrollment Period in the fall, if you’re looking to move from one supplemental plan to another, for example moving from an Aetna G Plan to a Cigna G Plan.

Answered by John Billetdoux on February 11, 2025

Broker Licensed in NJ, DE, FL, NC, PA & SC

Answered by John Billetdoux Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes you can! In most situations you will have to go through medical underwriting, which means they are going to look at your current and past medical/prescription history and will approve or deny your application based on the results.

Answered by Philip Biggs on March 9, 2026

Broker Licensed in OH, FL, IN & 8 other states

Answered by Philip Biggs Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can switch your Supplement plan for a new Supplement plan at any time. However, do not cancel your current Medicare Supplement plan until you receive a notice that your new Medicare Supplemental plan has been officially approved from the carrier.

Answered by Don Scheiderer on September 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in KY, GA, IN, MD, OH & SC

Answered by Don Scheiderer Medicare Insurance Agent
Absolutely. All 365 days per year. Just bear in mind that if you have already become age 66, you will have to declare to any health conditions that exist, along with the Rx's that you have been prescribed. But, if you are within that 12 months when you first enrolled into Medicare, you can exercise a rule known as "a trial right". This means no medical questions will be asked of you!

Answered by Steven Bleicher on May 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes. Depending on how long you have been Insured on your Policy & your state of residence, you may be subject to Underwriting to the Insurance Company whom you apply to. If you are subject to Underwriting generally there is no medical exam, however the Insurance Company may have a right to deny your application. It depends on your residence state. Thank you.

Answered by Andrew Zurbuch, MBA on June 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, FL, KY, MO, OH & TN

Answered by Andrew Zurbuch, MBA Medicare Insurance Agent
The short answer is "yes, you can." Medicare Supplements are not like Medicare Advantage Plans. Medicare Supplement policies are underwritten by the insurance company, and each company has different underwriting guidelines.

For a Medicare Supplement plan, after your initial enrollment, you would have to medically qualify to change plans, and by that, I mean that you would have to be healthy enough to make it through underwriting. If you do not medically qualify, some states have guaranteed issue periods called the Birthday Rule, where you can change your Medigap plan within the 60 days following your birthday each year to get lower premiums.

Answered by Diana Garner on May 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in KY, FL, IN, OH & TN

Answered by Diana Garner Medicare Insurance Agent
You may but you will be subject to going through underwriting if you aren't in a guaranteed issue period and you could be subject to higher premiums or the possibility of being declined

Answered by Steve Houchens on March 28, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent
Enrollment in a Medicare Supplement/Medigap is year round however changing a plan will depend on your ability to pass medical underwriting or qualify for guaranteed issue

Answered by Timothy Brown on June 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CT, DE & 15 other states

Answered by Timothy Brown Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, but it may be due to medical underwriting. You can enroll year round however. The company has the right to deny you due to some pre-existing conditions.

Answered by Kristen Skinner on October 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK

Answered by Kristen Skinner Medicare Insurance Agent
Technically, yes. Medicare Supplement plans are not locked-in to an annual cycle like Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plans. This means that you can make changes to them at any time of the year.

BUT outside of the Initial Enrollment Period (when you're new to Medicare Part B), or a Special Enrollment Period, you will need to qualify through Medical Underwriting to make a change in Medicare Supplement insurance plans or companies. If you've recently been in the hospital, have medical tests or treatment pending or you have a chronic condition or use a lot of medications, you can be denied coverage. This is why it's important that you never cancel one policy without first having the new policy that you're replacing it with in place. Many clients have questioned this because the Affordable Care Act eliminated pre-existing conditions and made it so that people with pre-existing conditions could get insurance, but that law does not specifically apply to Medicare programs. It is possible that this could change in the future, but for now, Supplement plans are still medically underwritten and can be denied.

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® on April 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA

Answered by Barbara Barnes, CMIP® Medicare Insurance Agent
YES, Medicare Supplemental plans do NOT have enrollment periods & this gives you the option to change year around

Answered by DeeDee Whitlock on March 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in LA

Answered by DeeDee Whitlock Medicare Insurance Agent
No there is no yearly Annual Enrollment for Medicare Supplement/Medigap like there is for Medicare Advantage/RX Plans.

Typically, Medical Underwriting/review is necessary to change plans. If you are looking to lower premium discuss your options with a Medicare broker.

Underwriting review consists of medical questions, Prescription list, Height/Weight etc.

Contact me with any questions.

Answered by Leslie Helene Sussman on March 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in NJ, FL & PA

Answered by Leslie Helene Sussman Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can change your Medigap plan at any time of the year. You must be able to health qualify to change unless you live in a state that has rules that say differently. Although, you can change at any time, you typically get your yearly rate increase on your policy's renewal date. This can be a good time to review your plan because you have the most accurate rate information.

Answered by Hannah Skinner on July 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in SC, AL, AR & 44 other states

Answered by Hannah Skinner Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes you can as long as you can pass the underwriting questions. That is one big difference between supplements and Medicare Advantages.

Answered by Cleo Martin on October 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in SC, FL, GA, MI & NC

Answered by Cleo Martin Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes you can change a supplement at anytime of the year. However, it may be hard to switch to a different supplement because of underwriting that you would have to go through and get approved.

Answered by Michael Yost on May 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, AL, AZ & 27 other states

Answered by Michael Yost Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change your medigap at any time, but in most states, you will have to go through medical underwriting unless you're in your guaranteed issue period.

Answered by Gus Karigan on October 3, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, GA & MI

Answered by Gus Karigan Medicare Insurance Agent
The short answer is yes. However you will have to go through medical underwriting (health questionnaire) to determine eligibility to change. A handful of states have a birthday rule where you can switch without underwriting.

Answered by Kelly Linster on May 8, 2025

Agent Licensed in ND, AZ, CO, IA & SD

Answered by Kelly Linster Medicare Insurance Agent
Supplemental (Medigap) plans do not have open enrollment periods, so it is possible to change plans anytime; however, if you are outside a guaranteed issue period, you may have to go through medical underwriting. The results of the underwriting could be higher rates or denial. The underwriting process will vary by state, carrier, and plan. It is recommended that you discuss your specific needs with a licensed, independent agent before making any changes.

Answered by Don Golding on July 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AR & 5 other states

Answered by Don Golding Medicare Insurance Agent
Good afternoon,

This is a great question and one I receive often. Yes, you can submit a new application at any time but know there may be underwriting questions.

If you would like me to send you new rates via email, please reach out with your zip code, county, and current age.

Rich Kozlowski

LifeSmart Senior Services

Contact me.

Answered by Richard Kozlowski on August 20, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL, AR, AZ & 39 other states

Answered by Richard Kozlowski Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes you can change your plan any time during the year. You may Be subject to underwriting if you are not within your guaranteed issue period. It may be possible to avoid underwriting with certain regulations under the federal and state specific pathways. You should consult with an agent, or you doctor before changing plans

Answered by Constance Phillips on September 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in OH

Answered by Constance Phillips Medicare Insurance Agent
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Can I change my Medicare supplement or Medigap policy at any time throughout the year? The answer is yes. Most people think they can only change those during the annual enrollment time in the fall, from October 15th through December 7th, but that's when you can change Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans. Medicare supplement plans can be changed all year round, but not everybody can qualify to do so. You have to health qualify and go through underwriting, so every company is going to have a set list of questions that you have to pass and prescriptions that you can't take in order to qualify for their policy. Every policy covers the exact same if you choose the right plan letter, so a Plan G is a Plan G is a Plan G. They just charge different premiums. But not everybody is able to change. Now, there are some states that have specific rules that allow you to be guaranteed issue into a policy based on your anniversary or your birthday date, but not every state has those rules. So, it's important to compare all the options and all the prices when you're signing up for the first time. I'd love to help.

Answered by Cody Brown on May 5, 2025

Agent Licensed in MO, AL, AR & 10 other states

Answered by Cody Brown Medicare Insurance Agent
Medicare Supplements can be switched through out the year however underwriting may be needed depending on the situation.

Answered by Valentina Gatewood on May 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, ID & NJ

Answered by Valentina Gatewood Medicare Insurance Agent
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Hey there, the answer is yes, you can change your supplemental Medigap plan at any time. All you have to do is answer some simple underwriting questions like, have you stayed overnight in the hospital? And you can go from a Plan G to a Plan N, or you can change carriers. Thanks so much for listening.

Answered by Cindy Clonts on June 17, 2025

Agent Licensed in GA, AL, CA & 9 other states

Answered by Cindy Clonts Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change your Supplemental/Medigap coverage at anytime, but if you aren't new to Medicare, you may have to do medical underwriting.

Answered by Kathy Detweiler on October 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Kathy Detweiler Medicare Insurance Agent
Hi!

Thanks for contacting me. Yes you may but you might have to go thru underwriting. Oklahoma has a Birthday Rule that was passed a couple of years ago. In short the rule states that you may change supplement carriers at the time of your birthday with guaranteed issue. This rule helps with lowering premiums.

If I can help with anything Medicare related, please be sure to reach out.

Dawn Young

HealthMarkets Insurance Agency

Answered by Dawn Young on September 2, 2025

Agent Licensed in OK & TX

Answered by Dawn Young Medicare Insurance Agent
You can change your Supplemental or Medigap plan, but doing so may depend on certain conditions. If you are within your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which lasts for six months after you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B, you can switch plans without medical underwriting. Outside of that period, you may need to provide health information and go through underwriting, which could affect your ability to obtain coverage.

Additionally, some states have specific rules regarding changes. It’s crucial to review your current plan, understand the options available, and check for any open enrollment periods to make changes without complications.

Answered by Sean Davis on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in NY, LA, MD & 6 other states

Answered by Sean Davis Medicare Insurance Agent
Technically Yes, you may change your Supplemental/Medigap plan at anytime throughout the year. Unless you are approved for Guaranteed Issue and if you are outside of the 6 month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which is the first six months after you become eligible for Medicare and enroll in Part B, then you will be subject to medical underwriting. Medical Underwriting factors in your current age, current health status, and any pre-existing conditions. Then the company will either deny coverage due to these factors or issue a policy with a premium that reflects the Medical Underwriting.

MEDIGAP OPEN ENROLLMENT PERIOD: If you enroll in a Medigap/Supplemental plan within the first six months after turning 65, you will be approved for almost any Medigap Policy at the lowest price, regardless if you have pre-existing conditions or health problems.

GUARANTEED ISSUE: Means you can switch Medigap/Supplemental Plans without Medical Underwriting. This only applies to certain situations, like moving out of plan's service area or losing employer sponsored coverage. In very rare occurrences, a company may offer Guaranteed Issue for their Medigap Plans during Annual Enrollment Period.

Answered by Robert Helmkamp II on May 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Robert Helmkamp II Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, Medicare Supplement plans can be changed at any time. Keep in mind that you do need to go thru underwriting questions when you change plans.

It is the Prescription Drug plan that has enrollment periods that you have to adhere to.

Answered by Lee Hampton on April 1, 2026

Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, ID & NV, TX, UT & WA

Answered by Lee Hampton Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, and possibly no... it depends on your situation. Are you eligible for a guaranteed issue period or could you be underwritten? We can discuss and determine to see what your options are.

Answered by David Koller on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in UT, ID & NV

Answered by David Koller Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you may apply to change from one medicare supplement to another at any point during the year. Unless you are in a "Guaranteed Issue" or "Open Enrollment", you will be subject to medical underwriting from the new company.

Answered by Victor Gerber on April 21, 2026

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Victor Gerber Medicare Insurance Agent
Simple answer is yes. However if it is past the open enrollment period and there is no "Birthday Rule" then you must pass underwriting.

Answered by David Tedrow on December 15, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC, CA, FL, GA, SC & VA

Answered by David Tedrow Medicare Insurance Agent
Supplemental / Gap insurance can be changed at any time of the year. However anytime you change from one to plan to another (even within the same company) there are going to be health questions you must answer. Usually these health questions limit your availability of getting new or different coverage if you have health concerns. That is why is it important to choose the right level of coverage when you first become eligible for part B, because during that time there are no health questions

Answered by Marcy Bulliner on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in MI, IN, MO, SC & TX

Answered by Marcy Bulliner Medicare Insurance Agent
Short answer- Yes, but may be subject to Medical Underwriting unless you are in Guarantee Issue Period.

Answered by Amanda Cantrell on February 10, 2026

Agent Licensed in NC, FL, GA & 5 other states

Answered by Amanda Cantrell Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can typically switch your Supplemental (Medigap) plan at any time, but it's not always guaranteed. You can apply to change your plan at any time, but the insurance company may decline your application or impose certain conditions, especially if you don't have a guaranteed issue right.

Elaboration:

Guaranteed Issue Rights:

If you have a guaranteed issue right (usually during your Medigap open enrollment period or if you switch from Medicare Advantage), the insurer must accept your application without considering your health status.

Outside of Guaranteed Issue:

Outside of guaranteed issue periods, you may be subject to medical underwriting, meaning the insurer can deny your application or charge higher premiums based on your health history.

State Regulations:

Some states have special rules that may make it easier or harder to switch plans, so it's important to check with your state insurance department.

New York Specifics:

In New York, insurers must sell you any Medigap policy at any time, regardless of pre-existing conditions.

Impact of Pre-existing Conditions:

If you switch to a new Medigap plan, you may have to wait up to six months for the new policy to cover pre-existing conditions.

Dropping Your Medigap Plan:

If you choose to drop your current Medigap plan, you may not be able to get another one in the future.

Answered by Fred Manas on May 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states

Answered by Fred Manas Medicare Insurance Agent
Generally, you have a guaranteed issue right to switch during your Medigap open enrollment period or in specific situations like moving out of your plan's service area. However, outside of these situations, you may be subject to medical underwriting, which could result in higher premiums or even denial of coverage.

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on July 31, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, Medicare supplement plans can be changed at any time. However, in most states you will undergo a health underwriting background check. Any serious condition can cause you to be denied coverage

Answered by Gary Henderson on July 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states

Answered by Gary Henderson Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can "try" to change your Medigap plan anytime during the year. Medigap policies are not subject to the change rules of Advantage plans - AEP and OEP. BUT... 2 issues will arise - #1 if you switch companies, you will be subject to health underwriting (in most states), and #2 your premium will increase because now you are buying a supplement at an older age. Bottom line I tell my clients who want a supplement - this plan is for life, unless a time comes that you can no longer afford it and want to change to an Advantage plan.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on June 12, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you can apply to change your Medigap(Medicare Supplement) plan at any time - but you may be subject to medical underwriting unless you qualify for a guaranteed issue right.

Answered by Meghan Blankenship on November 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, MD & OH

Answered by Meghan Blankenship Medicare Insurance Agent
yes you can change your Medigap policy at any time but you may be subject to underwriting unless you have a guaranteed issue enrollment period or another reason that qualifies for guaranteed issue

Answered by Mark Boone on October 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in MN, FL, MI & NC, OH, SC & VA

Answered by Mark Boone Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, Medicare Supplement plans do not follow the same rules as Medicare Advantage.

Feel free to contact me for assistance with a quote, Marcie Barnes

Answered by Marcie Barnes on October 8, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 48 other states

Answered by Marcie Barnes Medicare Insurance Agent
Medigap policy yes at anytime. Providing you qualify medically. Medicare advantage only between 10/15 & 12/07 unless you’ve moved or company stopped doing business in your county

Answered by Mike Henry on July 23, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Mike Henry Medicare Insurance Agent
Outside of the Annual enrollment period and the open enrollment period you may be eligible for a special enrollment period.

Answered by Jack Mayer on May 12, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA & NV

Answered by Jack Mayer Medicare Insurance Agent
If your Medicare Supplement policy has had a substantial increase and you are healthy you can look to another insurance company for the same coverage at a lower rate. If your not healthy some states have what is known as the Birthday Rule. Here in Virginia anyone can change insurance companies but not the plan letter during a 60 period from the date of their birth. Make sure to reach out to a licensed agent to help guide you through this procedure.

Answered by Dean Chiapetto on November 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in VA, MD, NC, TN & WV

Answered by Dean Chiapetto Medicare Insurance Agent
YES, MEDIGAP PLANS DO NOT HAVE AN ANNUAL ENROLLMENT. YOU MUST, HOWEVER, BE ABLE TO PASS THE UNDERWRITING GUIDELINES OF THE MEDIGAP PLAN YOU WISH TO ENROLL IN.

Answered by Deborah Webster on September 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ia & SC

Answered by Deborah Webster Medicare Insurance Agent

Tags: Medicare Supplement

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