Do I have to answer health questions when switching from one Supplemental/Medigap plan to another?

Question

Shawn Brown · Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes, you will have to answer health questions when switching from one Supplemental/Medigap plan to another. However, there are certain situations where you may qualify for guaranteed issue rights, which means you can switch plans without having to answer medical questions or go through underwriting.

Guaranteed issue rights typically apply if you’re losing other coverage, moving out of your plan’s service area, or switching within your Medigap trial period, among other special circumstances. It’s always best to review your specific situation to determine whether you qualify for guaranteed issue or if underwriting will be required.

Larry Dalton · Answer

You will most likely need to answer health questions, but certain events, such as the anniversary or birthday, rules, or other SEP qualifying events, can exempt you from these health questions. Again, a trustworthy agent can explain these to you, state-by-state, and events.

Answered by Larry Dalton on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK & TX

Answered by Larry Dalton Medicare Insurance Agent

Tony Capraro III · Answer

Yes-you are offered a Non-Medical Supplement/Medigap when you turn 65! Once enrolled in the plan and you want to switch--Most companies will require Health Questions to be answered!

Melonie Wood · Answer

In most case Medicare Supplements are underwritten health questions, so in moving from one plan to another, in most cases the answer is yes

Brian Moore · Answer

When clients ask me about switching Medigap plans, I point out that in Ohio, once you’re past the 6-month window after starting Part B at 65, insurers typically require health questions and can deny or adjust premiums through medical underwriting. Ohio follows standard federal guidelines with no added state safeguards, so unless you qualify for a guaranteed-issue event—like losing prior coverage—you’ll face that review. I’ve noticed people often don’t expect this hurdle, so I make sure they understand it upfront.

Answered by Brian Moore on March 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Brian Moore Medicare Insurance Agent

Clarence &quot;Mark&quot; Christiansen · Answer

Medicare supplement plans are subject to Underwriting and you will need to be in reasonably good health when you are outside of your guaranteed issue period which will be when first enrolling in Medicare or within several months after leaving an employer group health plan.

Answered by Clarence "Mark" Christiansen on April 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in WI, AZ, CA & 16 other states

Answered by Clarence "Mark" Christiansen Medicare Insurance Agent

Joseph Bachmeier · Answer

In most cases you do but you can switch any time during the year, and you will not be held under the Annual Enrollment Period like you would for a Part D drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan. You may not need to answer underwriting questions if you fall into a Special Election period.

Answered by Joseph Bachmeier on March 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA, AZ, DE & 5 other states

Answered by Joseph Bachmeier Medicare Insurance Agent

Brian Krantz · Answer

Yes — in most states, you’ll have to answer health questions unless you’re in a special guaranteed issue window. It depends on your state’s rules.

Christopher Boyd · Answer

In 2025, some states allow a "Birthday Rule" allowing seniors to change plan to plan at or around their birth month. For example, the senior may be able to change from Medicare Supplement Plan G with company A to Plan G with company B with no health questions during their birth month.

In other states where this provision does not exist, in most cases, a senior with chronic illnesses cannot switch to another Medicare Supplement plan or company without Underwriting (a.k.a. health questions) and some health conditions and/or prescriptions may prohibit the senior from changing plans.

Jennifer McDonnell · Answer

When changing a supplement plan you do have to complete the application which includes answering all the health questions. In order to be 'approved' your health must be reasonably positive with few minor issues. Anything that is a 'considerable health risk' would likely cause a person to be 'declined'. When you first go on Medicare during your initial sign on period, you were able to qualify for a Medigap plan with NO underwriting, no health questions, but later on you must answer the health questions.

Answered by Jennifer McDonnell on May 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in MI, AZ, CA & 10 other states

Answered by Jennifer McDonnell Medicare Insurance Agent

Charles Fletcher · Answer

Whether you have to answer health questions when switching from one Medicare Supplemental (Medigap) plan to another depends on where you live, when you’re switching, and the specific circumstances. Since you mentioned Washington State earlier, I’ll address that first, then cover the general rule:
In Washington State: Thanks to the state’s "Right to Change" law, if you already have a Medigap plan, you typically don’t have to answer health questions when switching to another plan of the same or a different letter (e.g., Plan G to Plan N), as long as you’re staying with plans B through N, or switching between Plan A policies. This guaranteed issue right applies year-round, not just during a specific enrollment period. However, if you’re moving from no Medigap coverage (like Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage) into a Medigap plan, or upgrading to a plan outside this rule (e.g., to Plan F if it’s still offered), insurers can require medical underwriting—meaning health questions—unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

General Rule (Most States): Outside Washington, switching Medigap plans usually requires medical underwriting unless you’re in your initial Medigap Open Enrollment Period (a 6-month window starting when you turn 65 and enroll in Part B) or an SEP applies (e.g., losing employer coverage or a Medicare Advantage plan ending). Underwriting means answering health questions, and insurers can deny you or charge more based on pre-existing conditions. If you’re past that initial window and no SEP fits, you’ll likely face those questions when switching—say, from Plan N to Plan G—unless the insurer offers a rare exception.

So, if you’re in Washington and already on a Medigap plan, you’re generally in the clear—no health questions for most switches. Anywhere else, check your timing and situation. Either way, call the new insurer to confirm their process before dropping your old plan.

Michael Ryan · Answer

Typically no.. There will be some questions needed for underwriting some plans outside of the Guaranteed Issue windows.

***Medicare Melanie*** · Answer

Having to answer medical questions when switching from one Medicare plan to another can be scary. While this is a complex question and varies by state, it can still be answered, but a thorough needs analysis with our team would be needed to confirm your specific needs. 

Switching to Original Medicare - Health questions are not required.

Switching Medicare Supplements, outside of a Guaranteed issue period - Health questions are required.

Switching to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) - Health questions are not required.

Switching Part D (Prescription) plans - Health questions are not required. 

As you can already tell, the process can be dauting, but don't worry. Our team is here for you.

Mitch Anderson · Answer

Generally the answer is "yes". If you want to switch from one Medigap plan to another you would be required to answer health questions (medical underwriting) on the application. Some states, California for example, have a "birthday rule" that allows you to change plans annually around your birthday without underwriting requirements.

Answered by Mitch Anderson on May 6, 2025

Agent Licensed in MN, IA & WI

Answered by Mitch Anderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Samantha Jellison · Answer

It depends. There are a lot of factors to consider here, such as the State you reside in, how long you have had your current Medigap policy, and the timeline of when you plan to switch. 
Unfortunately there are a lot of rules when it comes to Medicare Supplement policies. That’s why it’s important to work with a knowledgeable, trustworthy and licensed professional.

Shane and Tammy Carpenter · Answer

This really depends. Will you be switching within the same company? Which company is it? Otherwise, you generally must answer health questions when switching between plans.

Frank Souk · Answer

Yes you do. The only time medical underwriting is not required is when an individual is afforded Guaranteed Issue rights.

Amy Twary · Answer

In general yes. There may be times when you qualify for a guaranteed issue enrollment and do not have to go thru medical underwriting.

Nathan Curry · Answer

Thinking that Medicare covers everything 100% including dentistry, vision, hearing, and long-term care is one of the most often held false beliefs about Medicare. The truth is, Original Medicare (Parts A and B) has gaps in coverage, which is why many people need additional plans like a Medicare Advantage or a Supplement to help cover those out-of-pocket costs. It catches a lot of people by surprise if they don’t plan ahead.

Answered by Nathan Curry on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 20 other states

Answered by Nathan Curry Medicare Insurance Agent

Jim Neil · Answer

Usually yes. The only times you don't answer health questions are when you're new to Part B (usually when turning 65 or leaving your employer plan after you've already turned 65) or when you have any sort of 'guaranteed issue rights.' The most common of these is when someone already has Part B and is still working and he/she is coming off of the employer plan due to retirement. So something 'special' has happened meaning the employer plan was lost, therefore you have guaranteed issue rights for a Supplement with no health questions.

Answered by Jim Neil on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in MI, AL, AR & 31 other states

Answered by Jim Neil Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Slemons · Answer

No one likes to hear "it depends" and unfortunately, this is the answer here. Most of the time, answering health questions will be necessary; however, there are special circumstances (e.g. moving to a new state) where switching will not require answering health questions.

Answered by Mark Slemons on March 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ, CO, FL & 14 other states

Answered by Mark Slemons Medicare Insurance Agent

John Billetdoux · Answer

In order to move from one supplemental plan to another, you must remember that you’ll have to pass through the underwriting phase. This means the potentially new carrier is allowed to ask you health questions, if they are not satisfied with the answers they receive, they can decline the application or possibly charge you a higher premium than you’d normally be paying.

Answered by John Billetdoux on February 11, 2025

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

Answered by John Billetdoux Medicare Insurance Agent

Steven Bleicher · Answer

If a full year has passed after turning age 65, there will be a series of health questions which must be answered in order to change your Med. Supplement plans. If you've remained healthy, the odds are good that a change will be approved. However, please note if you are still WITHIN the one year period of obtaining a Medigap/Suppmt. plan, you will have a right to change companies without having to answer any health questions. Thus, acclimating to your plans initially, no matter what they are, is paramount.

Answered by Steven Bleicher on March 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Gregg Matheny · Answer

Yes, each carrier has a set of underwriting questions, and some even have a list of medication’s that if you take for any number of given diagnoses, you may be disqualified for enrollment into that supplement plan. Some are easier to get onto than others. If you narrowly don’t pass underwriting for a certain carrier, it may be a good idea to try another carrier.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Pyers · Answer

You have to answer health questions if you move from one Medigap plan to another. However, you can switch any month of the year as long as you meet the health requirements.

Leslie Helene Sussman · Answer

Yes, generally you do have to answer Health Questions when Switching Medicare Supplement/Medigap plans but do not be afraid to review the questions with a Medicare Broker and find out if there are less expensive Medigap plan options for you.     Each carrier could have different premiums for the same Health Plan coverage.

Medicare Supplement/Medigap plans are the SAME Medical coverage from Carrier to Carrier BUT not always the SAME premium.   It is always good to compare options.

If you are unsure or have questions, please contact me directly and I will be happy to review and let you know if you have options.

Michael Yost · Answer

Typically, yes you do. The first 6 months on Part B you can enroll in any supplement with no health questions. After the 6 months passes, then you would have health questions to switch or enroll in a supplement.

Answered by Michael Yost on April 24, 2025

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

Answered by Michael Yost Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Kim · Answer

Only is states that don't have the Birthday rules. Where you can just change your supplemental plans in the month of your birthday.

Gretchen Morris · Answer

The questions that this is referring to is underwriting.  Depending on your timing of the switch you may be required to go through underwriting.  Again this is a case by case basis.

Tammie Rutledge · Answer

If you are switching for one Plan F for example to another Plan F, no you are not required to answer health questions. The plan you are changing to must be a like plan. There are other circumstances that may not require health questions. Check with your local broker and ask them to review the Underwriting Guidelines with the company you are applying with.

Answered by Tammie Rutledge on March 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in WA, AZ, FL & ID, MT, OR & TX

Answered by Tammie Rutledge Medicare Insurance Agent

Helena Foutz, RSSA · Answer

This depends. If you live in a Birthday Rule state, like California or Idaho, you have an opportunity to switch plans on a Guaranteed Issue basis around your birthday, which means you can be a serious health condition and still get a new plan with no questions asked. If you go at any other time of year, or your state doesn't offer a Birthday Rule, then yes, you may be asked health questions.

Answered by Helena Foutz, RSSA on March 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AK, AR & 12 other states

Answered by Helena Foutz, RSSA Medicare Insurance Agent

Rick Boyd · Answer

Unless you qualify for a guaranteed issue enrollment if your state has a supplement birthday rule. You will have to answer health questions.

Steven Maicus II · Answer

You may have to answer health questions when switching from one Medigap plan to another, but it depends on your specific situation and the state where you live. During your initial 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you can typically switch plans without answering health questions. However, outside of this period, or in states with less favorable rules, you may have to answer health questions and could be turned down or charged more for pre-existing conditions.

Answered by Steven Maicus II on May 12, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY

Answered by Steven Maicus II Medicare Insurance Agent

Mitchell Jerome · Answer

Yes if you're outside of the open enrollment period (ie turning 65 and picking up Medicare A B) then you have to address health questions. There are some exceptions to the rule that might qualify you for a Guaranteed Issue position and bypassing the questions.

Answered by Mitchell Jerome on March 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Mitchell Jerome Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

In most situations, yes, you will likely need to answer health questions when switching from one Medigap (Supplemental) plan to another, especially outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This process is called medical underwriting, and the insurance company may deny your application or charge you more based on your answers. However, there are exceptions, such as guaranteed issue rights or special enrollment periods, where you may be able to switch without answering health questions. 
Here's a more detailed explanation:
Medical Underwriting:
.
When you apply for a Medigap plan, the insurance company will likely ask you questions about your health history, current medications, and any chronic conditions. They use this information to assess your risk and decide whether to offer you coverage, at what rate, and potentially with any limitations. 
Guaranteed Issue Rights:
.
If you are within your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, or if you qualify for certain other guaranteed issue rights (like switching after losing coverage through no fault of your own), you may be able to switch plans without answering health questions. 
Special Enrollment Periods:
Some states have special enrollment periods for switching Medigap plans, & you may be able to switch without medical underwriting during these periods. 
State Variations:
Some states may have different rules regarding Medigap switching and underwriting. 
Impact of Underwriting:
If you are denied or charged more due to medical underwriting, it can be frustrating, but it's important to understand that the insurance company is assessing risk. 
To determine if you need to answer health questions when switching:
Check your eligibility for guaranteed issue rights or special enrollment periods . 
Contact the insurance company: directly to inquire about their specific requirements and whether they will require health questions. 
Consider the implications of underwriting: & your potential need for a different plan.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

Yes, when switching from one Medigap (Supplemental) plan to another, you may have to answer health questions and go through a medical underwriting process in most states. However, there are exceptions, including your first Medigap open enrollment period and guaranteed issue rights.

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on June 8, 2025

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

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Jerry Cohen · Answer

The answer is...it depends on your state of residence. Most states do not provide guaranteed issue rights so a person switching from one plan to another will need to answer medical profile questions. If the insurance company does not like the answers provided by the applicant you can be rejected. The only states offering guranteed issue Medicare supplement coverage are: Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, and New York.

Answered by Jerry Cohen on May 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in NY

Answered by Jerry Cohen Medicare Insurance Agent

Eizel Mere · Answer

The general answer is yes. It depends on the company. Some are more strict than others. Provide your agent with all the necessary information.

Tanja Roulhac · Answer

Yes, generally, you may have to answer health questions when switching from one Medigap plan to another, but it depends on your situation. Here's a quick breakdown based on Medicare rules:

Outside Your Initial Enrollment Period: If you're not in your 6-month initial enrollment window (starting when you turn 65 and have Part B), insurers can require medical underwriting. This means you'll likely need to answer health questions, and they could deny coverage or increase premiums based on your health.


Guaranteed Issue Rights: You won't have to answer health questions if you're switching during a guaranteed issue period, such as:

Within 6 months of enrolling in Part B at age 65+.

If you lose other coverage (e.g., employer plan) and meet specific criteria.

In certain situations, like moving to a new state or your plan being discontinued.


Key Advice: Always check with the specific insurance company or use the official Medicare website (Medicare.gov) for details, as rules vary by state and plan.

Adam Ashby · Answer

Everyone has one guaranteed issue opportunity for Medicare Supplement when they go onto Medicare. There will be no questions asked at that time. After that initial opportunity you will generally have to go through underwriting if you ever want to change carriers. There are exceptions, one exception is that if your current carrier were to exit your area that opens up an opportunity for a guaranteed issue again. If you are wanting to make a change, reach out to a Medicare Broker who represents several different carriers. Have them review what you need and seek out specific and personal advice.

Answered by Adam Ashby on May 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, NE, UT, WA & WY

Answered by Adam Ashby Medicare Insurance Agent

Philip Santucci · Answer

After your initial enrollment you will have to answer health questions. Each carrier will have a different appetite so best to work with a knowledgeable broker who can find the best fit for you.

Areasha Lockhart · Answer

In some situations, yes. If you are new to Medicare, meaning you are turning 65 or retiring from your employer coverage, you have a Special election period where you do not have to answer any health questions. However, if you chose an advantage plan when you retired or when you first became eligible for Medicare, then yes, you will have to answer all health questions.

Answered by Areasha Lockhart on May 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, IA & ME

Answered by Areasha Lockhart Medicare Insurance Agent

Edward Cavelli · Answer

If there is not a guarantee issue election to be used then health questions must be answered to qualify for a new Supplement/ Medigap plan.

Soledad Ramirez · Answer

Only when it's a NON - Guaranteed issue time frame - which are when you do it during the year and not on your birthday month or when you enroll after your 6 months of turning 65.

Eva Peterson · Answer

If you live in a state that allows you to switch using the birthday rule, you can switch in and around your birthday month to another plan that is equal to or lesser than your current Med. Supp. Plan. So, it does depend what state you are in.

Answered by Eva Peterson on April 28, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, FL & NV

Answered by Eva Peterson Medicare Insurance Agent

Do I have to answer health questions when switching from one Supplemental/Medigap plan to another?

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