Can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Supplemental/Medigap plan during the Annual Enrollment Period without answering health questions?

Question

Nicole Creamer · Accepted Answer

The short answer is no. However, there are always exceptions such as a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to make a change or within your 12-month trial right period, or you are involuntarily terminated from your Medicare Advantage plan due to moving out of the plan service area, gaining eligibility due to age (turning 65), to name a few. In these cases, I want to discuss the change and ensure we cover all available SEP options.

Answered by Nicole Creamer on March 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in NE, AZ, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Nicole Creamer Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. So the question is, can someone switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a supplemental or Medigap plan during the open enrollment without answering health questions? The simple answer to that is no, you will have to answer health questions unless you've been on your Medicare Advantage plan less than 12 months, because they give you 12 months as kind of a free look and kind of a trial. They could call it a trial period. But if you've been past the 12 months, you're going to have to answer health questions. The health questions are things like, have you been in the hospital in the last three months? Do you have any of the following conditions, which are pretty serious conditions and things like that? But yes, you do have to go through underwriting. It's a little bit of an abbreviated underwriting, but it is underwriting.

Mike Alexander · Answer

It will depend on the state you live in.
Some states allow Gurantee issue while some require underwriting.
An exception is if the MAPD plan exited the market.
If so then you may have a GI option

Mark Bilgere · Answer

Typically no. When you want to move from an Advantage plan to a supplement, you are required to undergo underwriting. However, If you are in a Guaranteed Issue period or a Trial Right period, you can switch during the AEP timeframe, but you're not really using the AEP enrollment period. I

Answered by Mark Bilgere on May 12, 2026

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

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent

Daniel Brechin · Answer

Yes you can change from a Medicare Advantage plan to a supplement plan and it will be effective on Jan 1 of the following year

William Lawler · Answer

The question is, can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement or Medigap plan during the annual election period without underwriting or health questions? The answer to that is no. You will be subject to underwriting, health exams, etc. if you're switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medigap or Medicare Supplement. Now during the annual enrollment period, you can't switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Advantage plan, but not from an Advantage to a Medigap plan. There's also switching from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Advantage plan; there is no underwriting during the annual election period.

Larry Dalton · Answer

You can be exempt from answering health questions only during your initial enrollment (IEP)or some other Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This is why there is a saying: "You can always go from supplemental/Medigap to the Medicare Advantage plan under most circumstances, but you cannot always go the other direction."  There are two paths to travel in the Medicare system. 
 Again, a trustworthy agent can explain this in detail.

Christopher Boyd · Answer

State regulations vary and State Insurance Commissioners are discussing this very issue currently in 2025. In some cases, due to illnesses or medications, a senior may never be able to return to a Medicare Supplement which requires Underwriting and some companies may require a physical exam at time of application. In most cases, the "Turning 65" or "leaving an MAPD/MA after 12 months of enrollment" may be the only time a senior with chronic illness or prescriptions will have guaranteed issue Medicare Supplement enrollment entitlement.

Answered by Christopher Boyd on March 4, 2025

Agent Licensed in IN, KY, MI, OH, PA & TN

Answered by Christopher Boyd Medicare Insurance Agent

Voss Speros · Answer

I would say Yes depending on the situation. 

Trial Right:
When you turn 65, go on a Medicare Advantage plan then change your mind before you turn 66. you can get GI for a Supplement plan.
Same goes for if you retire after 65 and Take Part B for the first time, you can 

Plan Coverage Drops:
If your Medicare advantage plan drops, is discontinued, or you move out of the plan area you can get a GI to apply for a Supplement Plan. Generally 63 day SEP window.

Charise Karjala · Answer

This is a super important question, which is, can I switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a supplemental or Medigap policy during the annual enrollment period, which is October 15th to December 7th, without answering health questions? Generally speaking, if you've been in a Medicare Advantage policy, made a couple of changes over the last few years, and now you're 72 or whatever, and you're getting tired of this Medicare Advantage thing, the answer is pretty much a resounding no. You're going to have to go through underwriting with one of the carriers.

I won’t name which one, but they used to have what’s called an underwriting holiday, and they would invite everybody to come and participate in their Medicare supplemental policies without underwriting, which I just loved. I would have lists of people to enroll in their policy because they really needed to get in without underwriting, and I haven't seen that since COVID, unfortunately. So I pray that comes back so that, you know, people in my book of business or in my communities and states that I serve, I would like to be able to offer that to them.

But generally speaking, the answer is no. There are some circumstances where if people haven't been in a Medicare supplemental policy and they've only been in a Medicare Advantage policy for one year or maybe 18 months, yes, you can switch. But if you're anything over 70 years old and you want to make a switch, generally speaking, the answer is no. Check by state and by carrier because each one is going to be a little bit different. What may be true in California may not be true in Massachusetts.

That's the answer: generally speaking, no underwriting is something that we have to do. But these are private policies. Medicare policies are private policies; they're like life insurance policies. They’re provided to you based on where you live, whether you use tobacco—that's a big knockout—and medications that you’ve been taking. You may not even know that you were taking something for acid reflux, which could kick you out because it was an off-label use of a chemotherapy drug. So you never know what’s going to show up.

Here’s the answer: if you think you’re going to want a Medigap policy, get one when you turn 65 or 66 while they’re still cheap. Go and get all of your stuff done so you know exactly what you’re dealing with, and then when it becomes too expensive, then move out of it.

Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF · Answer

Yes, but there are stipulations. If you have been enrolled for more than a year in the Medicare Advantage plan, you may have to qualify health wise by answering a few underwriting questions. If you have been enrolled in your Medicare Advantage plan less that 12 months, you can use an SEP called, the Trial Right SEP any month during that first year of MAPD enrollment. This is a once in a lifetime SEP.

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF on May 26, 2025

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

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF Medicare Insurance Agent

Lynn C Shurtleff · Answer

No, there will be underwriting or medical questions.  Once you are outside your initial enrollment period in most states there is underwriting except for a few instances.

Ray McCauley · Answer

maybe. If you have moved to a service area that does not have a Medicare advantage plan you do have a window of opportunity to get into a medicare supplement guaranteed issue or if your Medicare advantage plan has gone away. You also have a guaranteed opportunity to get into a medicare supplement.

Answered by Ray McCauley on November 18, 2025

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

Answered by Ray McCauley Medicare Insurance Agent

Nikki Rowland · Answer

Usually, no.
During the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7) you can switch Medicare Advantage plans or go back to Original Medicare — but that does NOT automatically guarantee you can get a Medigap (Supplement) plan without health questions. There are some special circumstances 
 that you may be able to but that is case by case.

Kelsey Hentzen · Answer

This is a great question! If you are in your first 12 months of your Medicare Part A effective date, you can switch from a Medicare Supplement to a Medicare Advantage and vise versa for those initial 12 months. After the 12 months, you may try and switch to a Medicare Supplement during Annual Open Enrollment, however, you may have to health qualify. Keep in mind, as you age, the monthly premiums may also increase. Its best to try and make a decision in those first 12 months. Additionally, there are other qualifying events for moving to a Medicare Supplement plan, such as moving out of the service plan area.

Answered by Kelsey Hentzen on March 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in KS & MO

Answered by Kelsey Hentzen Medicare Insurance Agent

Paul Potter · Answer

Most plans require answering health questions if you have been in a Medicare Advantage Plan for more than 12 months. There are exceptions, but this requirement too often surprises, in a bad way, people that don't get all the information when they first start Medicare.

Answered by Paul Potter on June 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Paul Potter Medicare Insurance Agent

Marsha Reiniers · Answer

You can make the change to a Medicare Supplement plan during AEP, however, you will most likely be health underwritten, unless you are in your ‘free trial’ look period.. Carefully review the health questions on the application and talk to a licensed agent who specializes in the Medicare market to better assess your choices.

Answered by Marsha Reiniers on May 19, 2025

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

Answered by Marsha Reiniers Medicare Insurance Agent

Sherry Rose · Answer

The only time you can go onto a Medicare Supplement without answering Health questions is the 3 months before and 3 Months after turning 65.

Brian Krantz · Answer

It depends on your state. In most states, you’ll have to answer health questions to switch to a Medigap plan — AEP doesn’t guarantee acceptance. Always check your state’s rules first.

Michael Wehner · Answer

In most cases, the answer is no. To switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan you most likely will have to answer health questions to qualify for the Medicare Supplement plan. There are a couple of exceptions to this. The first is that if you chose a Medicare Advantage plan when you first turned 65 and have had it for less than 12 months, you have a 12 month trial period for the Medicare Advantage plan and can switch to a Medicare Supplement plan without having to answer the health questions. You also have the same 12 month trial right if you started on a Medicare Supplement plan and switched to a Medicare Advantage plan for the first time. The only other way to be able to switch to a Medicare Supplement plan without having to answer health questions is if the Medicare Advantage plan is leaving your coverage area. In that case, you would also be able to switch to a Medicare Supplement plan without having to answer health questions.

Answered by Michael Wehner on September 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in IN, KY, NC, OH, PA & SC

Answered by Michael Wehner Medicare Insurance Agent

Mary Turner · Answer

Annual enrollment is the time that allows you to make a change in your Medicare plan. It does not give you guaranteed issue for a Medicare supplement, so you must be able to answer health questions to qualify or the plan can deny the application.

Answered by Mary Turner on June 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Mary Turner Medicare Insurance Agent

Mitchell Jerome · Answer

Generally the only time you get a free pass to obtain the Supplement without answering health questions is when you first enter Medicare obtaining Part B. There could be exceptions too if the Advantage plan was being terminated then you'll get options to get Supplements without qualifying health wise.

Answered by Mitchell Jerome on December 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Mitchell Jerome Medicare Insurance Agent

Rodney Powell · Answer

No. The Annual Enrollment Period doesn't let you switch to a Medigap plan without answering health questions. The only ways to avoid medical underwriting are:

•  During your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period (the first 6 months after you start Part B at age 65)

•  If you live in a "birthday rule" state (like California, Oregon, Idaho, Illinois, or Nevada) where you can switch Medigap plans each year around your birthday without health questions

•  If you qualify for a Guaranteed Issue situation, such as losing coverage or moving out of your plan's service area

Bill Green · Answer

That’s a common question, and the answer is—it depends. During the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7), you can leave a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare, and you can apply for a Medigap (Supplement) plan. However, in most states, Medigap insurance companies are allowed to ask health questions and can deny coverage if you're not in a guaranteed issue window. The good news is that different companies have different underwriting guidelines—some may be more lenient with certain health conditions than others. That’s where working with a knowledgeable agent really makes a difference—we know which carriers are more likely to accept specific health issues and can help you navigate the process. So while switching is possible, having expert guidance can increase your chances of getting the coverage you want.

Answered by Bill Green on March 26, 2025

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

Answered by Bill Green Medicare Insurance Agent

Sarah Rollins · Answer

Medicare Supplement/Medigap plans are by definition underwritten products, meaning you have to answer health questions. If you have a Special Enrollment Period, like you have moved recently, or if you are still in your Initial Enrollment Period, you might be able to switch during Annual Enrollment without underwriting. If you think you might be eligible, I recommend meeting with a certified Medicare broker to review your unique situation.

Answered by Sarah Rollins on June 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, CA, ME, SC & TN

Answered by Sarah Rollins Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve Thornton · Answer

Usually not. During AEP (Oct 15–Dec 7), you can leave Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare — but Medigap plans may require health questions unless you qualify for a guaranteed issue right.
You may skip health questions if you’re in your Medigap Open Enrollment or using a trial right (first 12 months on MA).

Thomas Ashton · Answer

If you are within 6 months of turning 65. If you have a guarantee issued supplement policy, or if you were on a Medicare Advantage policy less than a year and switching back to a supplement.

Justin Lucas · Answer

No, you can not switch to a Medicare Supplement/Medigap Plan with out health underwriting questions unless you have a Special Election.

Michele Vina · Answer

No, if you have been on an Advantage plan for more than one year you will have to pass medical questions to be insured by a Medigap company.

William Lewkowski · Answer

You must go through medical underwriting (answering medical questions) to get approved for a Medicare Supplement if you are switching from Medicare Advantage. The only exception to this is if your current Medicare Advantage plan is being terminated for the next year. If that's the case, you receive a "guaranteed right" to get a Medicare Supplement and not requiring medical underwriting.

Answered by William Lewkowski on October 22, 2025

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

Answered by William Lewkowski Medicare Insurance Agent

Ronald Plocinski · Answer

No. However, what you can do is to return to Original Medicare and then pick up a stand alone prescription drug plan. You can choose to stay with just Original Medicare, in this scenario, or utilize something called your "Trail Right" period if you are within the first 12 months of your Advantage plan. The Annual Enrollment Period does not allow you to move from one Medigap plan to another.

Answered by Ronald Plocinski on September 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in NH, AZ, CA & 16 other states

Answered by Ronald Plocinski Medicare Insurance Agent

LaTosha Turknett · Answer

It depends on how long you have been enrolled in Medicare Part B. In general, the answer would be no. 

The open enrollment period for Medicare Supplements is the first-six months of your enrollment into Medicare Part B. Outside of this window, in most cases, health questions will have to be asked. A career agent will be able to ascertain if no health questions are permissible based on special circumstances.

John Billetdoux · Answer

If you are attempting to make this move during the Annual Enrollment Period, you will STILL HAVE TO ANSWER HEALTH QUESTIONS….and if you do not answer them to the carrier’s liking, they will decline you.

Answered by John Billetdoux on February 11, 2025

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

Answered by John Billetdoux Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Morrow · Answer

Unfortunatedly no in most cases.  If the current plans company pulls out of the area or you move, these are two of the exceptions.

Gary Bush · Answer

Generally you need to answer health questions when going from an MAPD pan to a Med Supp. If you do it within the first year you are in the MAPD plan you can usually make the switch on a guaranteed issue basis. You aren't restricted to the annual enrollment period. You can also do it during open enrollment (Jan 1-Mar 31). If you change to a Med Supp you will also need to add a drug plan (PDP) and any supplemental coverage you desire but the supplemental coverage can be added at any time if you qualify for it.

Answered by Gary Bush on June 1, 2026

Agent Licensed in TX, AR, AZ & 11 other states

Answered by Gary Bush Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Bleicher · Answer

Only if you are in the first year of Medicare! After age 66, medical questions are asked and if you have a health issue, you can only move to a different company's MA plan. This is known as using a “Trial Right”.

Answered by Steven Bleicher on May 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Zurbuch, MBA · Answer

Generally not. If you qualify under a Guaranteed Issue situation then yes or for a Special Enrollment Period election then yes. A a Guaranteed Issue situation is if you have purchased your Medicare Advantage plan within the past 12 months. You can opt out of Medicare Advantage plan within the first 12 months if it was the first time you purchased a Medicare Advantage plan. Please use a Broker. Thank you.

Plans are insured or covered by a Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO and PFFS) organization with a Medicare contract and/or a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Timothy Brown · Answer

It depends on the situation. Here are a few scenarios:

1) If the current Medicare Advantage plan exits the market and will not be renewing for the new year, it will create a Guarantee Issue enrollment for a Medicare Supplement for the next year.

2) If you move out of the service area of your existing Medicare Advantage plan i.e. from one state to another, this will also create a Guarantee Issue enrollment  into a Medicare Supplement. This scenario is not solely based upon the Annual Enrollment Period but rather the time of the move.

Leslie Kaz · Answer

Usually, no — switching from Medicare Advantage (MA) to a Medigap (Supplement) plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP, Oct 15–Dec 7) does not automatically give you “guaranteed issue” rights for Medigap.

Answered by Leslie Kaz on August 13, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AZ & 7 other states

Answered by Leslie Kaz Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Pyers · Answer

No, unless you elected a Medicare Advantage Plan for the first time. If you already have a Medicare Supplement before you signed up with the advantage plan, then you can only return to that plan unless you can answer the health questions and pass.

Answered by Michael Pyers on February 2, 2026

Broker Licensed in OH & MI

Answered by Michael Pyers Medicare Insurance Agent

Frank Carta · Answer

You have a 63-day window after you turn 65 and have already selected a Medicare Advantage plan to change it to a Guarantee Issue Medigap plan.

Barbara Barnes, CMIP® · Answer

Maybe. How long did you have a Medicare Advantage plan?  

If you are still in your first year of Medicare Advantage coverage and you previously had a Medicare Supplement plan that you dropped to join the Medicare Advantage plan, you may exercise your 'Trial Right' Special Enrollment Period to return to your Medicare Supplement plan with no medical questions.  If that plan is no longer available, you may choose another Medicare Supplement insurance company and enroll without Medical Underwriting, within certain guidelines.

If you enrolled directly into a Medicare Advantage plan during your Initial Enrollment Period and are leaving that plan within the first 12-months of coverage, you may also choose to return to Original Medicare and enroll with a Medicare Supplement plan without Medical Underwriting, again, subject to certain guidelines.

This process can be a bit tricky because you must first drop the Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare before you may enroll for a Medicare Supplement plan, and this can take some time.  The Annual Enrollment Period is from October 15 - December 7 each year, and it is a very busy time of year for Social Security and Medicare, as most Medicare beneficiaries need to review and make changes to their plans during that time of year.  It is possible that you could leave your Medicare Advantage plan and go back to Original Medicare only to have your Special Enrollment denied by the insurance company and find yourself without a Supplement plan while also outside of the Annual Enrollment Period, so also unable to re-enroll in your Medicare Advantage plan.  If you want to do this, be prepared to start the process in October to allow enough time for the disenrollment and re-enrollment.  You do not want to wait until the end of November or beginning of December to start this process.

Rick Boyd · Answer

If you are within your 12 month Advantage plan trial period, your Advantage plan is terminated, or you have moved out of the service area, you may qualified for guaranteed issue rights. If you moved to a different state, you may have a 60 day period guaranteed issue window. Check with your new state's insurance commissioner.

Answered by Rick Boyd on July 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in KY, AZ, CA & OH, TN, TX & UT

Answered by Rick Boyd Medicare Insurance Agent

Kris Moen · Answer

You can always switch plans—but you can’t always get back into Medigap without answering some tough health questions.

Hannah Skinner · Answer

You can switch to Original Medicare during the Annual Election Period, but you have to answer health questions unless you are in your Initial Enrollment Period. The only exceptions are New York, Massachusetts, and Connecticut where open enrollment is allowed year round.

Answered by Hannah Skinner on July 17, 2025

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

Answered by Hannah Skinner Medicare Insurance Agent

Mary Salmon · Answer

To switch from an Advantage plan to a Medigap plan without having to answer health questions requires the beneficiary to be within your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the 6 months after enrolling in Medicare). After this period, one additional way to switch on a guaranteed issue basis is if you lose your Advantage plan by moving out of your plan's service area or losing Employer Group Coverage. Otherwise, health questions will most likely be required to determine eligibility.

Answered by Mary Salmon on May 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX & OK

Answered by Mary Salmon Medicare Insurance Agent

Marnie Applegate · Answer

No, you generally can’t switch during AEP without answering health questions unless you have a guaranteed issue right or you live in a state with the birthday rule that allows for an annual Medicare supplement/Medigap switch to a plan with equal or lesser benefits without medical underwriting, pre-existing conditions or a new waiting. Period. If your state has the birthday rule, the guaranteed issue. Is typically anywhere from 30 to 60 days. But to answer the question, can you switch from a Medicare advantage plan to a Medicare supplement/Medigap during AEP yes you can but it typically requires medical underwriting.

Answered by Marnie Applegate on October 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in TN, AL, GA & TX

Answered by Marnie Applegate Medicare Insurance Agent

Richard Kozlowski · Answer

It depends on the state you live in.

Cheryl Lockhart · Answer

Yes, in most cases, you will have to answer health questions.

During the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7), you can leave your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare. However, enrolling in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan usually requires medical underwriting in most states.

The only time you can get a Medigap plan without health questions is during your Initial Enrollment Period (three months before your 65th birthday, the month of your birthday and three months after your birthday) or if you qualify for a special guaranteed issue situation for example if your current plan is not renewed.

Important: Always apply and get approved for the Medigap plan before dropping your Medicare Advantage plan to avoid coverage gaps.

Rob Campbell · Answer

Typically, unless you are in the guaranteed issue timeframe, which is a seven month window surrounding your 65th birthday, you will be required to answer health questions.

Cody Brown · Answer

No, you can not enroll in a medigap plan with no underwriting during the annual enrollment period. You can enroll any time of year, but you will always be subject to underwriting unless you qualify for a guarantee issue right.

Answered by Cody Brown on March 28, 2025

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

Answered by Cody Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Cindy Clonts · Answer

Not during AEP.  During this period you would have to answer underwriting questions any time you are outside of your initial 6 month, new to Medicare period.

Steve Schnell · Answer

Sometimes a person may qualify for a Guaranteed enrollment rule. If you are on a Medicare Advantage plan that stops being offered from one year to another without you disenrolling, you get the opportunity to return to Original Medicare and purchase some Medicare Supplements offered, but not all.

Answered by Steve Schnell on October 20, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ, AL, CA & 14 other states

Answered by Steve Schnell Medicare Insurance Agent

Dawn Young · Answer

Hello,

To qualify as Guaranteed Issue you must be within 6 months of your Part B effective date or within the first 12 months of having a Medicare Advantage plan.  Below are additional Special Election Periods (SEP) that qualify for Guranteed Issue with Supplement Plans:

Examples of situations where guaranteed issue rights apply during a SEP:
Moving out of a Medicare Advantage plan's service area: If you move and your Medicare Advantage plan doesn't offer coverage in your new location, you have a guaranteed issue right to enroll in a Medigap plan in your new area. 
Trial period for Medicare Advantage: If you disenroll from a Medicare Advantage plan during the first year of enrollment, you typically have guaranteed issue rights to enroll in a Medigap plan. 
Losing employer coverage: If you're retiring or leaving a job with employer-sponsored health insurance, you may have a SEP to enroll in Medicare Part B and a Medigap policy, with guaranteed issue rights. 
Losing other coverage: If you have other coverage that pays after Medicare (like certain employer or union plans) and that coverage ends, you may have a SEP and guaranteed issue rights to enroll in a Medigap plan. 

Thanks for asking, Dawn Young HealthMarkets Insurance Agency , Contact me.

Stephanie Yarberough · Answer

During the Annual Enrollment Period you will most likely need to answer health questions if swtiching from a Medicare Advantage Plan to a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan unless you have a special exception that allows you to not go through medical underwriting. If you are attempting this process, it's best to start in October so that you have enough time to confirm you are through medical underwriting before the enrollment period ends, as you will need to put a stand-alone Part D plan in place as well.

Answered by Stephanie Yarberough on March 17, 2026

Broker Licensed in PA

Answered by Stephanie Yarberough Medicare Insurance Agent

Cathy Barnett · Answer

You can switch but you'll most like have underwriting questions to answer for the supplemental plan.

Robert Helmkamp II · Answer

It is extremely rare to enroll in a Medicare Supplement/Medigap Plan without medical questions or underwriting. Unless there is a special enrollment period or you have guaranteed issue rights, if you do not enroll in a Medicare Supplement within the first six months of becoming Medicare eligible, you will have medical questions and underwriting. This could either increase your expected premium or coverage could be denied.

Answered by Robert Helmkamp II on September 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Robert Helmkamp II Medicare Insurance Agent

Kathy Olejniczak · Answer

It depends on where you live. In NY yes in Florida No. I am happy to review this with you.
Please contact me

Lea Ayres · Answer

Yes, you can switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare and subsequently enroll in a Supplemental/Medigap plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) without needing to answer health questions, as long as you disenroll from the Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare within the first 12 months of your Advantage plan enrollment

Answered by Lea Ayres on March 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CT, MD & 8 other states

Answered by Lea Ayres Medicare Insurance Agent

Bill Zeky · Answer

The simple answer most of the time is no. However, under the right circumstances, it is possible to make that change without answering the health questions.

Donald E Oates, CLU, ChFC, RTRP · Answer

AEP applies to Medicare Advantage and Part D Rx plans only.  It doesn't apply to Medicare Supplement. You would have to answer the medical questions.

Jan Knight · Answer

You can only sign up for a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan without answering health questions under a few circumstances.  These include:

1) You're in your first 6 months of Part B enrollment
2) You've in a Medicare Advantage plan and still in the first year of enrolling in it.  (Also called a Trial Right)
3) Two lesser known situations:
     - You move out of the service area of your Medicare Advantage plan, or
     - Your Medicare Advantage plan terminates your plan without cause

Karen Chiaruttini · Answer

A medicare beneficiary cannot switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medigap (Supplement) plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). They would have to go thru underwriting and answer health questions, because Medigap companies are allowed to require medical underwriting outside of specific guaranteed‑issue situations.

Answered by Karen Chiaruttini on February 27, 2026

Agent Licensed in MD, AZ, NV, PA, TX & WV

Answered by Karen Chiaruttini Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

No, generally you won't be able to switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Supplemental/Medigap plan during the Annual Enrollment Period without answering health questions. While the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) allows you to switch between plans, it does not guarantee enrollment into a Medigap plan without underwriting. You'll likely need to answer health questions and be approved by the insurance company. 
Elaboration:
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP):
This period (October 15 - December 7) allows you to switch between Medicare Advantage plans, enroll in Original Medicare, or switch back from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare. 
Medigap Enrollment:
While you can apply for a Medigap policy during the AEP, you'll typically need to go through underwriting, which may include answering health questions. 
Guaranteed Issue Period:
The only time you can generally enroll in a Medigap policy without answering health questions is during your 6-month Guaranteed Issue Period, which starts the first month you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B. 
Exceptions:
There are a few exceptions where you might have guaranteed issue rights, such as when you're losing coverage due to moving out of a plan's service area.

Gary Henderson · Answer

Typically no. If this is the first time you had an advantage plan, you may change within the first 12 months without medical questions. Their are other Special events, however, most people would be a NO. If you have moderage health issues, you should be able to pass.

Answered by Gary Henderson on June 16, 2025

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

Answered by Gary Henderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Mary Brown · Answer

Yes, you can switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare during AEP.
But you are not automatically guaranteed Medigap without health questions.

Andrew Kramer · Answer

That depends. You can under 3 circumstances - #1 You are within 1 year of starting an Advantage plan; #2 You moved from the area of service of your Advantage plan; #3 The Advantage plan was terminated by either CMS or the company. But if you are not moving out of the service area of the Advantage plan, you are subject to health underwriting in most states. Consult your Medicare agent for info related to your state.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on May 21, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Meghan Blankenship · Answer

No - during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), you can switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to Original Medicare, but you'll likely have to answer health questions to enroll in Medigap(Supplemental) plan unless you qualify for a special guaranteed issue right.

Answered by Meghan Blankenship on November 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, MD & OH

Answered by Meghan Blankenship Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Boone · Answer

in most cases, you won’t be able to switch your Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement policy outside your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period except in specific situations when you have a guaranteed issue without having to go through underwriting. There are a few circumstances where you may be allowed a guarantee issue such as your Medicare Advantage plan is being eliminated or in some states around your birthday.

Answered by Mark Boone on February 12, 2026

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

Answered by Mark Boone Medicare Insurance Agent

Marcie Barnes · Answer

Yes you can change coverage during Annual enrollment.

There are exceptions to avoid underwriting:

You a new to Medicare within the last 6 months.
You left or lost credible coverage elsewhere
There are other rare exceptions that can be explored at the time of enrollment.

Todd Bostic · Answer

The simple answer to that question is No. You need to answer all medical questions before enrolling.

Mike Henry · Answer

Generally the answer to that question is no. Your plan won’t take effect till 1/1 the following January. Also your going to need to get a Part D for your meds

Dean Chiapetto · Answer

You can switch to a Medicare supplement from a Medicare Advantage plan under certain circumstances.
- If this is the first time you are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and have had that plan for less than 12 months you have a guaranteed right to a Supplement.
- If you had a Supplement and switched to a Medicare Advantage plan you have the right to go back to the Supplement you had within 12 months. If your previous insurance company no longer provides supplement then you can go to any company in your area. You are limited to certain plans.

Jennifer Kalbach · Answer

It is important that you chose the right plan for you when you are originally going into Medicare. You can chose a Supplement or a MAPD plan and you are not underwritten at that time. During AEP you would need to first return to original Medicare then you would apply and be underwritten. This will always be the case once you chose an MA over a Supp. If you chose a Supp at the time you get your Medicare, some states have birthday rules which allows you to change around your birthday without be underwritten. Speak to an agent before turning 65 to find out all options in your state.

Answered by Jennifer Kalbach on March 30, 2026

Agent Licensed in KY

Answered by Jennifer Kalbach Medicare Insurance Agent

Pat Papson · Answer

There are many rules, and regulations about going from an Advantage Plan, back to a Supplement. 
The best option is to meet and discuss your individual situation

Rodolfo Rojas · Answer

When you become eligible for Medicare, you have 6 months to enroll in a Medicare Supplement without underwriting. However, if you have been in Medicare over that, when you change, they will go through underwriting, which means you will have to prove your medical conditions, which they could deny you. Call me to check what is available in your area.

Answered by Rodolfo Rojas on August 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in NV, AL, AR & 36 other states

Answered by Rodolfo Rojas Medicare Insurance Agent

Joseph Peck · Answer

You can if it's your first time on an advantage plan and in your first 12 months, or if you are in your initial enrollment period, just turning 65.

Brent Mowery · Answer

Unless you live in a "Birthday Rule" state or are in a "Special Enrollment Period" you must answer health questions and medically qualify

Ken Banks · Answer

In most cases, no. While the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15 to December 7 allows you to leave a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare, it does not provide a guaranteed right to buy a Medigap plan

Gary Haft · Answer

The only way you can do that is if you have been on a Medicare Advantage Plan for 12 months or less and this includes all Medicare Advantage Plans combined for those twelve (12) months.  Once you hit the 13th month, you can no longer move from a Medicare Advantage Plan to a Medicare Supplement without answering the Medical Questions.

Jami Mead · Answer

It all depends on how long you have had medicare. If it's within your initial 6 months of joining a Medicare then yes you can, if not then you would have to answer the medical questions. I am happy to help you review this if you would like.

Lillian Hill · Answer

Answering medical questions to qualify for a health care policy is called underwriting, and highly routine. The only times you do not have to answer these questions are when you have a protected Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that gives you guaranteed‑issue rights.

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)—October 15 to December 7 each year—is not a protected time for Medigap. You can switch your plan during AEP, but you may have to prove your insurability by answering health questions unless your plan change is caused by a situation that gives you guaranteed‑issue rights, such as:

- Moving out of your Medicare Advantage plan’s service area
- Your plan ending, terminating, or reducing its contract
- Other qualifying involuntary losses of coverage

In these situations, you are protected by a guaranteed‑issue SEP and can enroll in a Medigap plan without answering health questions.

🦉

Michelle Ryan · Answer

That depends on what state you reside in. Georgia does not currently have a guaranteed issue rule, meaning you could switch supplement plans or carriers at certain times without having to answer medical questions.

Mark Murphy · Answer

Not usually.  To move up to a Medicare Supplemental plan from an advantage plan requires the medical questionnaire if you are 6 months past your Part B start date.

William Murray · Answer

The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) has no influence on enrolling in Medicare Supplement plans.
The AEP is for changing Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans.
However, you are allowed to apply for a Medicare Supplement plan any time throughout the year.
If you don't qualify for the your 6 month Open Enrollment Period after obtaining Part B, or qualify for one of several guaranteed issue situations available, you'll have to answer health question.

Chad Hardy · Answer

This is one of the most misunderstood parts of Medicare. The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) only lets you switch between Medicare Advantage plans or change your drug plan. It does not guarantee that you can move from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) without health questions.

To enroll in a Medigap plan without medical underwriting, you need a Guaranteed Issue (GI) right — and those are limited. Most people only get GI rights when they’re first turning 65, leaving employer coverage, or if their Advantage plan is terminating. Outside of those situations, if you try to switch from Medicare Advantage to a Medigap plan, the insurance company can require health questions and can deny the application based on medical history.

So yes, you can apply for a Medigap plan during AEP — but unless you have a GI right, you’ll typically need to go through underwriting.

Blaine Shipe · Answer

I’m No depending on what kind of Part C (Advantage plan) and health conditions of course. You have to wait to switch the deup
Plan component is why the need for the wait until AEP

Claudia Englert · Answer

I don’t know of any insurance companies that have applications without health questions for people trying to switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan to a Medicare Supplement. If you have bad health problems or conditions, they will turn you down.

Ashley King · Answer

You have 12 months after joining a Medicare Advantage plan to switch back to original Medicare and during that time you can purchase a Medicare Supplement policy without medical underwriting. If you are notified your Medicare Advantage Plan is leaving your covered area you would also be eligible to enroll in a Medicare Supplement policy without medical underwriting. In addition, if you move out of the area where your Medicare Advantage plan is offered you may be eligible for a special election period to enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan without underwriting. Some states also have special rights regarding medical underwriting that may apply. A licensed insurance broker can help review your options, or visit your local SHIP department, call 1-800- Medicare or visit Medicare.gov.

Larry Pereiro · Answer

Typically no. However, if you are in your initial enrollment period (just turned 65) and decided to change after enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan, you can make that change.

Jerry Cohen · Answer

Under most circumstances ( residence for one ) you cannot go from a Medicare Advantage plan tto Supplement plan without answering medical questions. Some states only allow you to buy certain supplement plans with guaranteed-issue rights outside your Initial Enrollment Period if you want to make this switch. Medigap carriers do not have to accept your application unless you have a qualifying election period or live in a state with additional Medigap guaranteed issue (GI) periods. This means there’s no guarantee you’ll be able to switch.

Nora Alishahi · Answer

So, if you switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare during AEP, you can apply for a Medigap plan, but in most states you have to pass underwriting unless you qualify for a guaranteed right.
The only time that you don't need underwriting is when you originally apply.
There are always some exceptions.

Mark Walker · Answer

You can switch from a Medicare advantage plan into a Medicare supplement without having to answer questions if you are in the first 12 months of a Medicare advantage plan. It is called a trial period & you are allowed to move to a Medicare supplement with no health questions.

Robin Duffey · Answer

You can switch to a supp/medigap plan without answering health questions from a Medicare Advantage plan. IF your current MAPD plan is discontinuing for the next year.  robin

Lyle Affleck · Answer

The short answer to this question is 'no." There is only one time when an individual can apply for a Medicare Supplement and not have to answer the medical questionnaire, and that is during the recipient's initial application process (the first time they are signing up for Medicare. You CAN switch from an advantage plan to a supplement, but you will HAVE to go through underwriting.

Brenda Watson · Answer

Annual election period is when you can opt out of your Medicare advantage. Plan and opt into a Medicare supplement and a part d plan. Paired with original medicare. However, unless you have a special election period or you live in a birthday rule state and your birthday is during annual election period you will be required to answer medical questions.

Tonya Mowan · Answer

During the AEP it is generally for individuals who switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, one MA to another, dropping an MA plan to return to Original Medicare. It does not give guaranteed issue for a Medigap/Medicare Supplement plan. However there are times that an individual can leave an MA plan without the health questions. The initial Medigap Open Enrollment period is 6 months starting the month you're 65+ and enrolled in Part B, there are certain trial rights such as if it is your first time on an MA plan and decide to drop it within the first 12 months you can  get a Medigap plan without underwriting, or if you have a Special Enrollment/guaranteed issue  rights such as your MA plan leaves your service area, shut downs, or you move out of the service area.  Each situation is dependent on your specific circumstances and it is advisable to contact a local agent to discuss your unique situation.

Frankie Cochran · Answer

you can enroll in a medigap or supplement during your initial enrollment period without having to answer health questions but any time after that your are going to be subject to health review and possible denial of coverage

Russell Scott · Answer

In general, no.   Outside of certain times in life when you are either new to Medicare Part B or if you're under a guaranteed issue period for a certain reason, you'll have to answer health questions in order to be qualified to join a Medigap plan.

Mike Wetsel · Answer

If your carrier drops your area or you are within a year of starting the policy, then yes.  Otherwise, no.

Emmond Wills · Answer

usually, no — not without answering health questions. During the Annual Enrollment Period, You can leave your Medicare Advantage (MA) plan and go back to Original Medicare (Parts A & B). But if you then want to buy a Medigap (Supplement) plan, most states require medical underwriting — meaning you’ll likely have to answer health questions and can be denied or charged more based on your health.

Lakisha Bryant · Answer

Yes you can. It depends on when you first became eligible for medicare. If it has been under a year when your Part B has become active, you can.

Krystal Hampton · Answer

Yes you can apply for a Medigap policy during annual enrollment period, which is from October 15th through December 7th. 

To do so, you would have to exchange your Medicare Advantage plan to a standalone prescription drug plan and then enroll into a guaranteed issue Medigap plan. 

You can also enroll into a Medigap policy from January 1st through March 31st as well.

Doris Youngman · Answer

That answer is both a yes and a no. If you enrolled in a Medicare Supplement plan when you turned 65, you have an opportunity to have a 'Trial Period" when you can leave a Supplement Plan and try out a Medicare Advantage plan for a year. At the end of the year, you can either go back to the plan you had in the Supplement plan or continue to be in a Medicare Advantage plan.

On the other hand, if you started Medicare with a Medicare Advantage plan, you can switch to a Supplement plan based on usually health questions or medications you currently take. If the questions the Supplement company asks you and you answer 'yes' they can either deny you coverage or have you pay a nigher monthly premium.

Joni Kattau · Answer

It depends on what state you're in. In Texas there is a six month open enrollment period that starts on your Medicare Part B enrollment date. If you are beyond the six month open enrollment window, you are outside of the 'guarantee issue' period and you may need to go through health underwriting (answering medical questions) when trying to switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medigap plan.

Amal Sahyoun · Answer

It depends on several factors such as is your plan being discontinued and other individual factors, such as a Special Election Period (SEP)  But to avoid health questions should be done during your original initial enrollment period.

Comfort Olude · Answer

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), this is also referred to as the " Open Enrollment" occurs from October 15th through December 7. This is the period that you can switch from a Medicare Advantage, return to the Original Medicare and enroll in a supplemental/Medigap plan.

Tammy Monjaras · Answer

Sorry, unless there is a special situation called SEP (Special Enrollment Periods) carriers will not accept an application for a Supplement/ Medigap plan without answering health questions. Work with a Medicare agent to see if you qualify for an SEP.

Nicolas Johnson · Answer

The only way you can qualify for a Medicare supplement with no health questions is if you’re in a guaranteed issue period Or open enrollment. If you apply during AEP and are not eligible for either of these criteria, you will have to go through full underwriting.

Tabitha Self · Answer

Unfortunately, you may not be able to do that if you are not within your original eligibility trial period, have a special enrollment period or guaranteed issue based on your state of residence.  It is best to work with a licensed Medicare broker to determine if you are able to switch without health questions or even if you do have health questions, determine the best plan option for your situation.

Theresa Furth · Answer

During the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), you can switch from Medicare Advantage back to original Medicare with a seperate Medigap plan.  The down side to that is Medigap insurers can require medical underwriting unless you have a guaranteed issue right.  If you are concerned about getting into a Medigap plan, I would work with a qualified agent, get accepted and then cancel the Medicare Advantage plan.

Andrew Dooly · Answer

In most cases, no. During the Annual Enrollment Period you can leave a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare, but that doesn’t automatically mean you can enroll in a Medigap plan without answering health questions. In several states, once your initial Medigap enrollment window has passed, insurance companies will to use medical underwriting.

There are a few exceptions, such as certain guaranteed issue situations or if you’re within the first 12 months of trying a Medicare Advantage plan. Since there are a lot of variables that can affect your options, it’s usually a good idea to speak with a trusted local Medicare agent who can review your situation and help make sure you’re not accidentally putting your coverage at risk.

Sherita Joseph · Answer

You can switch during the Annual Enrollment Period, but Medigap is different most states still require health questions. AEP doesn’t guarantee acceptance into a Supplemental plan. We’d just need to check your health history to see what options you qualify for.

Kelly Anderson · Answer

Typically, no you cannot move from a Medicare Advantage plan to a a during the Annual Enrollment Period without answering health questions. Medigap policies usually requires medical underwriting, often requiring answering health questions.

Bridget Joseph · Answer

You generally cannot switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medigap (Supplement) plan during the Annual Enrollment Period without answering health questions. Medigap plans only guarantee coverage without medical underwriting during your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts when you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B. Outside of this period, insurance companies can require medical underwriting, although limited exceptions (guaranteed issue rights) may apply in certain situations.

Alaina Hunt · Answer

Yes, you can switch Medicare Advantage plans during the Annual Enrollment Period without health questions, but switching from Medicare Advantage to a Medigap (Supplement) plan usually means you’ll have to answer health questions. This is because Medigap plans often check your health before accepting you, unless you have special rights that let you switch without questions.

So, if you want to move from Medicare Advantage to Medigap, it’s a good idea to get advice first to understand what to expect.”

Shannon Brenneke · Answer

The Annual Enrollment period does not allow you to switch from Med Advantage to Med Supplement without health questions.  You may switch from one Med Advantage company to another with no health questions during the Annual Enrollment Period. Otherwise, you would need to answer health questions and be approved if you want to move to a Med Supplement from Med Advantage.

Skye Edwards · Answer

Not most of the time. The Annual Enrollment Period allows beneficiaries to switch from any Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan, or back to Original Medicare and a Prescription Drug Plan. Beneficiaries may also switch from Original medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan.

Medicare Supplement plans will require beneficiaries to answer health questions to join, unless they are new to Medicare (this is called Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment. It lasts for the first 6 months of joining part B of Medicare), or if they have a guaranteed Issue (GI) right as defined by Medicare. You can review GI rights by calling me or by reviewing the Choosing a Medigap Policy booklet provided by CMS.

Monica Gardner · Answer

Switching from a MAPD to a Medigap plan during AEP usually means you'll face underwriting (health questions) UNLESS you qualify for a specific Special Enrollment Period or Guaranteed Issue right.

Joseph Smith · Answer

The short answer is no. In a normal situation, you would have to answer health questions to switch to a Medicare Supplement. In special situations such as involuntary loss of coverage with a Medicare Advantage Plan, you would be able to go into select Medicare Supplemental plans with no health questions.

Tim Measures · Answer

You can always switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare during the Annual Enrollment Period, but the tricky part is picking up a Medigap (Supplement) plan. In most cases, unless you qualify for a special situation or you’re in your initial enrollment window, the insurance company can ask health questions and decide whether to accept you. The Annual Enrollment Period doesn’t guarantee you can get Medigap without going through underwriting.

Pam Johnson · Answer

Unfortunately, you would need to answer the questions, unless you have a qualifying event that makes you guaranteed issue.  Some of these are if you went with an Advantage plan in your first year of being eligible for Medicare, you may possibly be able to switch to a Supplement in the first 12 months.  If your Advantage plan is no longer offered and you receive a letter that advises you that you have a special enrollment period.  Otherwise, you would need to answer the questions in order to qualify.  You would want to talk with an Agent to see if you may qualify, not all plans underwriting are the same.  Thank you and I hope that helps.

Caretta Carrington · Answer

No, switching from a MAPD plan to a Medigap plan during the AEP does automatically qualify you for guaranteed issue enrollment without being underwritten. You may switch to Original Medicare without answering underwriting questions but not  a Medigap plan.

Chris Perrin · Answer

Generally speaking medicare supplement plans require medical underwriting unless you are enrolling during your guarantee issue enrollment period which is available to newly eligible Medicare beneficiaries

Chris Hughes · Answer

Other than the initial enrollment period when you turn 65 or a special enrollment period (SEP), for example if you delayed Medicare Part B because you had other creditable insurance through your employer, you will have to go through a medical underwriting process as part of the application with the insurance company if you are switching from a Medicare Advantage plan to Medicare Supplement.   One other exception may be during a 1 time, 12 month Medicare Advantage trial period if it is the first time you have been on a Medicare Advantage plan.  Talk to a local licensed agent about your specific circumstances.

Chris Hunsucker · Answer

No, you generally cannot switch from a Medicare Advantage plan to a Medigap (Supplemental) plan during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP, Oct 15–Dec 7) without answering health questions, known as medical underwriting.
Switching Process
During AEP, you can drop Medicare Advantage and return to Original Medicare (Parts A & B). However, applying for a new Medigap policy afterward typically requires insurers to review your health; they may deny coverage, charge higher rates, or exclude pre-existing conditions if you don’t qualify for an exception.
Exceptions for No Underwriting
Guaranteed-issue rights (no health questions) apply only in specific cases, like:
•	Your initial Medigap Open Enrollment (6 months starting when you turn 65 and enroll in Part B).
•	First 12 months (trial period) after joining Medicare Advantage.[ehealthinsurance +1]
•	Plan termination, moving out of service area, or certain state rules (e.g., birthday rules in CA, OR).

Jeffrey Stoll · Answer

No, UNLESS you are within the initial 12 month period of being enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan for your FIRST time.  In other word, ONLY if you are still in the first 12 months of being in a Medicare Advantage plan.