I missed my Medigap window by a few months and now no one will cover me without underwriting. Why isn't this rule more well known?

Question

Steven Bleicher · Accepted Answer

The first thing that comes to mind is that you probably did not meet with a long-time Medicare professional agent who knows the ins & outs of its very quirky rules. In my opinion, enrolling with Medicare yourself online means that you may be bypassing the rules concerning the different periods during the year when one can enroll AND make changes. 

The only thing for you to do at this point is to enroll with a Medicare Advantage plan temporarily (you HAVE the right to do this at anytime since you've never enrolled before by picking up Medicare Part B with a monthly premium). Then, when the Open Enrollment begins on October 15th thru Dec. 7th (to become effective on Jan. 1st of the following year), you have what is known as "a trial right", meaning since you have your very 1st Medicare plan for less that 12 months, you will be able to apply for a Medigap (a.k.a., Med. Supp.) without having to answer any medical questions concerning pre-existing conditions.

Using any online information only yields the more well-known tenets of Medicare. The best advice I could ever give anyone regarding THE most important aspect of your life: HEALTH, is to be certain to get a 2nd & even 3rd opinion from an independent rep who is also known as a broker. However, in using a "Captive Agent": one who only has allegiance to one insurance firm, is foolhardy since all companies who offer Medicare-compliant Advantage plans can vary the rules to a certain extent. Though I truly hope that most agents are honest/reliable and can cover the gamut of the regulations, as an instructor myself, I will deliberately "over"-emphasize the more important areas/rules to all of my clients. Good luck and if needed, call 1-800-MEDICARE so that the person on the other end who's trained for this, confirms what a trial right means.

Gary Church · Answer

Missing that window by even a day can cause you not to qualify. How's your health? Can you pass underwriting? There are options. I would recommend meeting with a Licensed Medicare agent who can guide you.

Answered by Gary Church on October 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX

Answered by Gary Church Medicare Insurance Agent

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

This is another example of having a competent broker that ONLY does Medicare and is INDEPENDENT. Your broker should have explained the rules and deadlines to you so you would not miss your opportunity. The reason Medicare recipients should have a broker that only does Medicare is simple.... you can't be an expert at everything; there just aren't enough hours in the day.

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer on April 13, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ & CA

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer Medicare Insurance Agent

Daniel Brechin · Answer

I need to let you know.  If there is a valid reason. We can file that if not you may enroll Oct 15- Dec 7.   You will get a small penalty when you enroll with a PDP.  
Contact me.
Daniel Brechin

Mark Maliwauki · Answer

Its very well known. It is all over Medicare.gov and internet searches. If you search Initial Medicare Supplement or Medigap Enrollment Period it explains it all very well. It is a pretty long period at 6 months after you enroll in Part B. If Medigap is what you know you are going to need because of chronic or other potentially deniable conditions, you need to hit the window of guaranteed issue rights.

Answered by Mark Maliwauki on August 7, 2025

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

Answered by Mark Maliwauki Medicare Insurance Agent

Voss Speros · Answer

Voss Speros here, Greek god of Medicare. Medicare's all Greek. You're in luck, I'm Greek. So the question today is, "I missed my Medigap window by a few months. Now I can't get coverage without underwriting. Why isn't this more well-known?"

Well, you're right, it's not. After you turn 65, you have six months to go on a Medicare supplement plan with no underwriting. Do you know you missed this? The advertising on TV talks about the three months before your birth month or three months after you go on Medicare, and then you can go on an Advantage plan. There's a lot of marketing for that one. The Medigap one is not. It's not bad. It's talked about a little bit, but not as much as the other one. And that's probably the reason.

But there are insurance brokers that do talk about that. So at 65, that's when you need to call a broker. Now, if you waited eight months to talk to a broker, well, I mean, let's be honest here, that's on you. That's not anybody else's fault. You turn 65, you know you gotta go on Medicare. Call a broker, call a carrier, ask a question. There are people everywhere offering information. So just ask.

I get it, you're busy. Life is stressful. Things are going on. We got work to do. Always just stop and ask the question, though, because you don't want to get to that point in that seventh month and then ask, and be like, "Oh, now I gotta go through underwriting. I have this existing thing. It's not gonna work."

So if you have questions, give us a call. We'll send a broker out. Always, always, always. You know, when you're getting close to 64, then start asking those questions. Hope that helps. Talk to you soon.

Charise Karjala · Answer

The question is about missing the initial enrollment period for Medigap and guaranteed issue. This individual claims they missed it by a few months and is asking why this isn't more widely understood. I'm not sure why it's not more widely understood. I know it's very well understood among those of us who work in this industry. So the question is, why are more consumers not asking about guaranteed issue? I think there's some confusion, perhaps leftover from healthcare reform, where there are no pre-existing conditions from 2012, the Affordable Care Act. But the Affordable Care Act does not affect Medicare. These policies, enrollment periods, and guaranteed issue have been very stable for the last 20 or more years.

So for those of you coming into Medicare, please don't listen to your friends, because they may or may not have accurate information. Call Medicare, call Social Security, call HICAP. There's an office in your state, or call a broker. Those of us who work with five or more companies, especially the big reputable ones—not the little ones—and who work in multiple states can answer that question quickly and efficiently for you. We can provide guidance, timelines, and budgets to work with. This is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life, and it shouldn't be left to a cocktail party or a poolside conversation.

I'm sorry to hear that this individual missed their Medigap window. If they were my client, I would certainly be looking for options to have a different election period where they might get a chance to move into a Medigap policy. But to miss that is a big miss, and that's unfortunate. The information's out there.

Ronnie Robinson Jr · Answer

It's explained in every Medicare 101 meeting, but most people don't go, and they should, in my opinion, to help spread the word. We provide a wealth of free information about transitioning into Medicare at these events or one-on-one appointments, with no obligation to take any action.

Answered by Ronnie Robinson Jr on September 16, 2025

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

Answered by Ronnie Robinson Jr Medicare Insurance Agent

Shelly Hefley · Answer

It is well known to any good insurance agent and that’s why it’s very important when people turn 65 to speak to someone that’s knowledgeable about the rules. Tell your friend your family everyone you know that way more people are educated! You are correct it’s a shame that it’s not a bigger part of what Medicare tells New # enrollees. What state do you live in? Some states have a birthday rule. Feel free to call me and I’ll see if I can help.

Answered by Shelly Hefley on July 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, AL, IL, KY & TN

Answered by Shelly Hefley Medicare Insurance Agent

Lauren Fodde · Answer

It is a one-time, 6-month window that doesn’t get talked about as much.

Starts when you’re 65+ and enrolled in Part B

During: no health questions, guaranteed approval
After: medical underwriting usually required

Why people miss it:

It’s not annual
There’s less education/marketing

Exception to know:
If you’re still working and have employer coverage, your Medigap window may not start until you leave that coverage and enroll in Part B

Bottom line:
This is one of the most important Medicare deadlines—timing matters more than people realize.

Justin Doherty · Answer

Sadly, there are so many "ins-and-outs" where Medicare is concerned, it's hard to adequately communicate everything to the public. This is why it is so important to find a good, trusted agent to help provide this information to you.

Answered by Justin Doherty on September 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CO, CT & 11 other states

Answered by Justin Doherty Medicare Insurance Agent

Michelle Sparks · Answer

I can see how this would be very frustrating, and one of the main reasons I spend as much time as possible educating folks before they turn 65. Enrolling during your initial enrollment period for a Medigap policy ensures a guaranteed issue from all Medigap carriers. 

The rules surrounding Medigap enrollment can be complex, and many people are unaware of the specific timelines and conditions that apply. The initial enrollment period for Medigap typically lasts for six months after you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B. During this time, you have guaranteed issue rights, meaning insurers can't deny you coverage based on pre-existing conditions.

If you miss this window, insurers can require medical underwriting, which means they can assess your health and potentially deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health status. 

It's always a good idea for individuals nearing 65 to educate themselves about Medicare options and timelines to avoid such situations. Reaching out to a local Broker is a great first step!

Patricia &#039;Tif&quot; Bush · Answer

Currently, Medicare expects that each person who becomes eligible is going to do their own homework. By going online or contacting an agent. I have just recently seen that Medicare is trying to increase their education. I’m sorry this happened to you if you live in Connecticut you do not have to go through medical underwriting and we can get you on a plan right away as soon as you can get on Part B.

Answered by Patricia 'Tif" Bush on September 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in ct, FL, NC & SC

Answered by Patricia 'Tif" Bush Medicare Insurance Agent

Esther Miller · Answer

Each year Medicare publishes a book for new enrollees and for existing enrollees called Medicare and You which outlines what is covered in Medicare Advantage Plans (also called C plans) and Medigap Plans which are also called Medicare Supplements.   This book is available to order or download from the Medicare.gov website and has that information in it. 

While there is a lot of information in this book, it's also good to contact a local licensed Medicare Insurance agent to help you sort through these options once you are eligible for Medicare insurance, or if you need to change your insurance or have a Special Enrollment Period, like a moving from one area to another, as you could be eligible for a 2nd guaranteed enrollment period for Medicare Supplements.

Eddie Tune · Answer

Contact me. We are outside of the Annual enrollment period.
I can put you into a Medicare Advantage plan if you live in Missouri.
Thanks
Eddie

Jake Purvis - CMIP · Answer

Most people simply are not told about it.

When you first enroll in Medicare Part B, you get a one time Medigap open enrollment period where you can buy a Supplement plan with no health questions. After that window closes, insurance companies can ask health questions and can decline you.

This rule is buried in Medicare materials and rarely explained clearly, so many people assume they can sign up anytime.

This is one of the biggest reasons working with a Medicare agent matters. An agent makes sure you understand these deadlines before they pass so you do not lose guaranteed options.

Dustin Haffner · Answer

It’s mentioned in the Medicare & You handbook… but it’s not emphasized the way it should be. Most people are focused on:
•	Part A
•	Part B
•	Drug plans
•	Medicare Advantage commercials
Medigap timing gets lost.
Insurance companies don’t advertise underwriting rules
Companies selling Medicare Supplement policies have no incentive to shout:
“After 6 months, we can deny you.”
They focus marketing on:
•	“Freedom to choose doctors”
•	“No networks”
•	“Predictable costs”
The underwriting fine print isn’t the headline.
Agents don’t always explain long-term consequences
Some agents:
•	Focus on getting someone enrolled
•	Don’t explain future switching limitations
•	Or assume clients won’t change later
Once someone chooses Medicare Advantage at 65 and later wants to move to Medigap, underwriting becomes a shock.

Bob Greco · Answer

The information is published on Medicare.gov as well as other Medicare resources.  The problem is that the information is not always easy to find.  There are other special elections that are available in some circumstances.  My suggestion would be to contact an agent like myself to see if you qualify.  

Bob Greco

John Hose · Answer

Unfortunately, some people miss the deadline for enrollment. Did you enroll in original Medicare Parts A&B? If so, you may have some options. 

Please contact me.

I would be happy to help you. 

Thanks 

John Hose

Timothy Baggett · Answer

You’re not alone this catches a lot of people by surprise. The Initial Open Enrollment period for a Medigap policy is a one-time period. Unfortunately it happens during a very busy and confusing time when most people are focused on just getting Parts A and B started.

 Because Medicare itself doesn’t require you to choose a supplement right away, many people assume they can shop for a Medigap plan anytime without consequences, and the underwriting rules aren’t typically emphasized in mailers or commercials.

Another reason it isn’t widely understood is that most advertising you see on TV and online is centered around Medicare Advantage and the Annual Enrollment Period, not Medigap eligibility. The guaranteed-issue window is only a few months long and applies once for most people, so if no one clearly explains it during that initial enrollment, it’s very easy to miss, and unfortunately you don’t realize how important it was until you try to apply later and are turned down.

Jennifer Melancon · Answer

Unfortunately some do not take advantage of meeting with an agent before turning 65 and getting their free education they are entitled to. When people want to go through the process on their own then they are taking the risk of not having all the information. I know it's overwhelming when you are getting so many calls and mail but that is the time to take advantage of getting as much info on Medicare as you can.

Answered by Jennifer Melancon on November 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL & VA

Answered by Jennifer Melancon Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Holmes · Answer

Depending on where you live, we may be able to help you with an Advantage Plan without underwriting.  I would need more details to be certain, warm regards, Mark Holmes

Robin Mulcahy · Answer

The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) publishes the "Medicare For You" booklet and mail it to Medicare recipients annually.  

It outlines and explains everything you need to know about Medicare open & special enrollments periods and penalties.

Brendan Scarffe · Answer

Unfortunately, the book that Medicare sends is massive, daunting and muddled. Medicare tries to provide as much information as possible, but each person has a unique situation that doesn't fall into the cookie cutter examples. There are many rules and even penalties that no one knows about unless they have a trusted agent/broker helping them.

Answered by Brendan Scarffe on January 21, 2026

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

Answered by Brendan Scarffe Medicare Insurance Agent

Shelly Lessard · Answer

They have what is a Guaranteed Issue for your 1st initial enrollment period. If you have not added a Medicare advantage plan and you are also late to chose that. Now during Annual enrollment 10/15 - 12/07 is the time to do it. As far as a Medi gap you will have to answer health questions and go through under writing.

Answered by Shelly Lessard on October 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in OR, UT & WA

Answered by Shelly Lessard Medicare Insurance Agent

Kelly Vanzant · Answer

When is your effective date?  There's a seven month window when turning 65. You could still be in your window of no underwriting.

Steve Houchens · Answer

This rule is pretty much well known. The guaranteed issue initial enrollment. Is three months before your 65th birthday month the month you turned 65 and three months after your 65th birthday month. That is a 7 month enrollment period for guaranteed issue. It’s easily found on my publications, through the Social Security or Medicare by calling or checking online. This relates to a Medicare Supplement plan as there are no health underwriting for Medicare Advantage plans as long as you haven’t missed an enrollment period, if you did you will have to wait for a qualified enrollment period.

Answered by Steve Houchens on September 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Ron Cronwell · Answer

The time window is fully described in the New to Medicare booklet you received along with your Medicare card. There is a 6 month open enrollment window following the month of your part B effective date, where there are no health questions. Working with a local agent gets you information on your several options, including time windows for enrolling in Medigap, Prescription Drug, and or Medicare Advantage plans.

Answered by Ron Cronwell on October 6, 2025

Agent Licensed in TN

Answered by Ron Cronwell Medicare Insurance Agent

Walt Smith · Answer

That rule is generally well known. I make sure all my clients are quite aware of it. Some states are now going to a birthday rule or you can enroll each year on your birthday with no underwriting. Those plans generally cost more. Not every state has that. Your other option is to role in a Medicare advantage plan during an opener robot in the fall. Some of the plans are excellent. I will provide a coverage you need. Please discuss your options with a company broker

Answered by Walt Smith on June 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in NJ, NY, PA & VA

Answered by Walt Smith Medicare Insurance Agent

Richard Kozlowski · Answer

Remember, your Medicare Supplement open enrollment is a 6-month window. 

Happy to check dates or see if there is a Medicare Supplement without underwriting in your area

Rich Kozlowski
Contact me.

Mal Varlack · Answer

Always best to call a broker who gives you all your options before either turning 65 or leaving an employer plan. Right broker will tell you the timeframes you’re looking at. But please note the state of NY is different. In NY it’s always Open Enrollment meaning you won’t miss you’re window of opportunity there and insurers cannot deny you coverage

Answered by Mal Varlack on April 17, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AZ, GA & 11 other states

Answered by Mal Varlack Medicare Insurance Agent

Sandy Nelson-Tittsworth, CMIP · Answer

There are many rules that Insurance Beokersare aware of. 
I would suggest you work with an Insurance Broker; there’s no way you can learn all this on your own.

Steve Schnell · Answer

The rules are advertised pretty frequently. In fact, most seniors I meet say they are overwhelmed with agents/brokers contacting them about options. It's important to have an agent who can help you with your Medicare situations when they come up before your choices become limited.

Answered by Steve Schnell on March 23, 2026

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

Answered by Steve Schnell Medicare Insurance Agent

Jessica Breland · Answer

There are a lot of Medicare/Insurance rules that should be more well-known & this is definitely one of them. We have to put people through underwriting all the time for different reasons. This is one of the reasons I license with so many different companies... If one declines, try another. Depending on health issues, there's usually a company out there.
If you would like to give me a call, I can advise on your specific circumstances. And don't worry, no pressure. I'm happy to answer questions & give guidance with no strings attached.
Jessica Breland

Duane Boebel · Answer

You can apply for a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan with no medical underwriting 6 months prior to your Medicare effective date and 6 months after. After 6 months you would need to go through medical underwriting. Exception would be if you are after age 65 and coming off group health insurance. There are a few other exceptions that I can answer by contracting me.

Answered by Duane Boebel on May 26, 2025

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

Answered by Duane Boebel Medicare Insurance Agent

Nicole Hardy · Answer

There are a lot of confusing terms about diferent enrollment periods. With the Open Enrollment window, it is believed its designed this way to control risks to insurance companies. Although this is very unfair to the consumer, insurance companies are not required to make sure folks are aware of this policy. You can however speak to an advisor who may be able to assist you in finding a loophole or another election peiod to help you get insurance that fits your needs.

Answered by Nicole Hardy on March 16, 2026

Broker Licensed in MD, AZ, PA, VA & WV

Answered by Nicole Hardy Medicare Insurance Agent

Lori McDermott · Answer

In New York, Medigap can be enrolled into at any time. There's no underwriting and a guaranteed issue. In New York, guaranteed issue Medigap means that insurance companies must sell you a Medicare Supplement plan at any time of year, regardless of your age or health conditions. Unlike most states, NY requires continuous open enrollment, meaning you cannot be denied coverage or charged higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions.

Answered by Lori McDermott on May 6, 2026

Broker Licensed in NY & FL

Answered by Lori McDermott Medicare Insurance Agent

Donald E Oates, CLU, ChFC, RTRP · Answer

It's pretty well known. Did you call some agents when you got your Medicare card? They would have told you this. You had a six-month window to enroll in a Medicare Supplement.

Dixie Obbink · Answer

Please know that you can speak to an agent who sells Medicare plans at no cost to you. Most agents can answer these questions for you and help with these types of questions/guidelines. Outside of speaking to someone, you can find these answers at Medicare.gov and this information is in the Medicare and You book. I know it can be difficult when you don't know what you are looking for. Some representatives at the Social Security and Medicare offices do share this information.

Answered by Dixie Obbink on February 4, 2026

Broker Licensed in SD, AZ, IA, MN & NE

Answered by Dixie Obbink Medicare Insurance Agent

Rebecca Jackson · Answer

As a Medicare broker I am very aware of the rules and parameters of Medicare, but like most of my friends who are not yet 65, Medicare is a very foreign, far off, unthought of medical plan. In general, people turning 65 are unaware of the way Medicare works until they or a family member goes through the transition themselves.

Answered by Rebecca Jackson on November 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, AZ & 12 other states

Answered by Rebecca Jackson Medicare Insurance Agent

Mary Brown · Answer

The strict enrollment rules for Medigap often catch people off guard because Medicare is complex and the one-time enrollment window isn’t always emphasized clearly.

Andrew Kramer · Answer

This rule is very well known by a licensed health insurance agent who specializes in Medicare plans. Did you contact one when you turned 65? Also, you receive the Medicare book from social security when you turn 65, and every year thereafter. The information is there for you to read it.

Answered by Andrew Kramer on November 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL

Answered by Andrew Kramer Medicare Insurance Agent

Marcie Barnes · Answer

This is something you really need to speak with a licensed agent with to figure out how to help you.  You can contact me.

Marcie Barnes

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

From 64 1/2 -65 and 2mos is your initial sign up windows with guaranteed issue. The other guaranteed issue option is if you lose your employer insurance or if your current insurer drops you. Thus creates a special election period., otherwise insurers have the right to underwrite applicants. This information is available on Medicare.gov website and by insurance agents.

Answered by Suzanne Lamperti on June 29, 2025

Broker Licensed in MD

Answered by Suzanne Lamperti Medicare Insurance Agent

Todd Bostic · Answer

There is nothing that can be done for you about that, however if you are in good health, it really doesn’t matter.

Julie Thompson · Answer

There are other PPO options if you can not qualify for a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan that are guarantee issue. This means they will take you regardless of your current health situation, but it is only a certain times of the year i.e. AEP Oct 15th to Dec 7th.

Answered by Julie Thompson on October 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AZ, KY, NV & TN

Answered by Julie Thompson Medicare Insurance Agent

Cheryl Lyons · Answer

You’re not alone — this is a common source of frustration, and the rules around Medigap open enrollment aren’t as well known as they should be. Here’s why it happens and what to know:

Why the Medigap window is so strict

Open Enrollment Period is limited

Starts the month you turn 65 and enroll in Part B, and lasts 6 months.

During this window, insurance companies cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to health conditions.

After the window ends

Insurers can require medical underwriting, meaning they can:

Deny coverage for pre-existing conditions

Charge higher premiums

This is why missing the window by even a month can make coverage much harder to get.

It’s not widely advertised

Most seniors hear about Medicare Part A/B enrollment, but Medigap rules are less emphasized by Social Security, Medicare, and employers.

Many people only learn about it when trying to switch plans or retire — by then, it’s often too late.

Ways to navigate now

Check for guaranteed-issue rights:

Some states have birthday rules or allow switching if you lose other coverage or your MA plan changes.

Consider Medicare Advantage:

If you can’t get Medigap without underwriting, you can enroll in an MA plan instead, which doesn’t require medical underwriting.

Appeal or ask about exceptions:

Sometimes insurers offer coverage if you have recent job-based insurance loss or other special circumstances.

Bottom line:
The strict window exists to protect insurers from high-risk enrollments, but it can be harsh on seniors who miss it. Awareness is low because most educational materials focus on Part A/B, not Medigap timing.

Jim Willis · Answer

It's one of the many rules people don't read (like having to have a drug plan).  The problem is it appears you are getting Medigap because you have been diagnosed with something and the underwriting is to determine what it is.
Consider switching to Medicare Advantage which has no underwriting.  It's actually better in any case.

Robert Remin · Answer

Robert Remin, expert Medicare plan advisor, licensed in NY, CT, NJ, and FL. It's well known with expert Medicare plan advisers and by choosing to navigate Medicare without expert advice often leads to situations as you are describing.

Answered by Robert Remin on July 28, 2025

Agent Licensed in NY, CT, FL & NJ

Answered by Robert Remin Medicare Insurance Agent

Chad Hardy · Answer

When you first enroll in Medicare Part B, you get a one-time six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period where you can enroll with no medical underwriting, regardless of your health.

Once that window closes, insurance companies are allowed to ask health questions and can decline coverage based on your medical history.

Many people aren’t aware of this because Medicare doesn’t automatically enroll you in a supplement or strongly emphasize how important that six-month window is.

Depending on your situation, you may still qualify for guaranteed issue rights, or you can try applying with different carriers since underwriting guidelines vary.

Bruce Resnick · Answer

I hope I don't come off sounding rude, but turning 65 and gaining Medicare is a huge step that shouldn't' be taken as lightly as many folks do. Because it's a government program, it's incredibly complex and has many long lasting pitfalls and traps. The answer to your question is "this rule is not more well known only to the folks who have failed to do the basic research and planning. The rule is plainly posted here ==> https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy

Answered by Bruce Resnick on September 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Bruce Resnick Medicare Insurance Agent

Robin Duffey · Answer

Any agent that is discussing Medicare options should explain when you get get a guaranteed Medigap plan. It does happen that might not be explained but even when the agent does explain the Medigap guaranteed versus underwriting sometimes so much information is being given to the person they are talking with it gets to be too much information and can be forgotten.

Answered by Robin Duffey on December 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ, CO, ID, NM, OR & WA

Answered by Robin Duffey Medicare Insurance Agent

Aisha Saleem · Answer

Most people don't know there's a 6 month Medigap enrollment window that starts after you get Part B. If you miss that window, the insurance company can ask health questions and deny coverage. However, choosing the right agent is a great way to make sure you stay informed and educated of insurance matters that pertain to your health condition and life circumstances.

Answered by Aisha Saleem on June 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in MD & FL

Answered by Aisha Saleem Medicare Insurance Agent

Sean Macbean · Answer

The dates for Medicare selection are widely published in most media cycles. 

Because if you've missed (AEP) annual enrollment period of 10/15 to 12/7 or (OEP) open enrollment period of 1/1 to 3/31 for Medicare Advantage plans. 

Unless you qualify for an SEP, your only option is a Medicare supplement, which all, requires underwriting.

Tonya Mowan · Answer

Medigap open enrollment period is the 6 months after you first enroll in Part B. It is hidden in the fine print unfortunately. However, you may qualify for a Special enrollment period where you might not need to undergo underwriting. To best determine this you would need to speak with a licensed agent in your area for assistance. 

I would contact a local agent to inquire about your specific circumstances and see if there are options for you.

Casey Graves · Answer

I think this is a reason why its beneficial to use an agent from the start. We can make sure you aren't missing any important enrollment periods or guaranteed issue periods! CMS sends out a "Medicare and You" book every year that explains this rule.

Answered by Casey Graves on April 21, 2026

Broker Licensed in TN

Answered by Casey Graves Medicare Insurance Agent

Wild Bill Anderson · Answer

You deserve to know your opportunities and liabilities when it comes to timing of enrollment. Too many only find out about deadlines or penalties after it’s too late. Don’t let this happen to you or those you care about. Let’s talk!

Answered by Wild Bill Anderson on April 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA

Answered by Wild Bill Anderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Ron Gambles · Answer

Every year CMS publishes a Publicly available (Online) guide called "Medicare and You". It explains in great detail the Process of how Medicare works. It also highlights the rights and responsibilities of Medicare Beneficiaries. I would encourage you to work with your agent to get more information, the key is taking control of your healthcare by seeking the answers.

Answered by Ron Gambles on April 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in TN

Answered by Ron Gambles Medicare Insurance Agent

Holt Rushing · Answer

They have the Open Enrollment rule out there with no underwriting. Most people start researching and looking months before they get on Medicare. The underwriting phase isn't super strenuous. I would be happy to take a cool and see for you.

Answered by Holt Rushing on June 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in MS, AK, AL & 29 other states

Answered by Holt Rushing Medicare Insurance Agent

Bridget Joseph · Answer

Many people aren’t aware of Medigap enrollment rules because Medicare information is often presented all at once during a busy transition period, and the 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period can be easy to overlook. Unlike other parts of Medicare that are widely advertised each year, Medigap rules—especially medical underwriting after the initial window—don’t always receive the same attention. As a result, some individuals don’t realize the importance of enrolling during their initial eligibility period until after it has passed.

Answered by Bridget Joseph on April 9, 2026

Agent Licensed in OH, FL, KY, SC, VA & WI

Answered by Bridget Joseph Medicare Insurance Agent

Dan Griggs · Answer

If you used a licensed Medicare insurance agent those timetables should have been reviewed. Client education is of utmost importance.

Megan Day · Answer

You typically have a 7 month window to enroll in Medigap. The first 3 months prior to your 65th birthday. The month of your 65th birthday, and 3 months after your birthday. I am not sure the state that you live in, but this is a very great question! If you have a licensed agent they should have communicated this with you. Typically you should have received a packet in the mail from Social Security. It would have come in the mail before your birthday.

Answered by Megan Day on September 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in AR

Answered by Megan Day Medicare Insurance Agent

Jake Dalton · Answer

This is why it is recommended that one works with a competent Medicare broker! As a broker, there can be workarounds for situations such as this, too. In NC, some companies will allow you to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, and then move over to a Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap) at a later date. My next question would be... Did you get enrolled in a Part D plan to avoid that late penalty? 

Like I said, in the Medicare Broker world, these deadlines are common knowledge, and is one of the main reasons for working with someone that does this day-in & day-out (Over 30+ years of experience myself).

Mark Rich · Answer

Unfortunately, there are many sales initiatives (through television, mail, and telemarketing) that are only focused on enrolling new Medicare beneficiaries in Medicare Advantage plans (aka, Medicare Part C). Consequently, many new Medicare beneficiaries are unaware of their Medicare Supplement (Medigap) "Open Enrollment" period! This is a one-time, six-month period that starts the first month a person is 65 or older and has Medicare Part B. During this timeframe, as long as the applicant meets both those requirements, an insurance company cannot refuse to sell a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy. However, once this period expires, the beneficiary's application will be subject to underwriting, meaning any pre-existing health conditions will be considered, which could result in the application being rejected. For this reason, all soon-to-be 65-year-olds need to engage a qualified local Medicare Health Insurance Specialist (licensed agent), ideally two or three months before their 65th birthday, so an understanding of one's Medicare plan options can be considered, especially the difference between the Medicare Supplement (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage plan models. It is during this time that each beneficiary must make decisions and take actions that will affect their future healthcare choices and finances!

Answered by Mark Rich on August 25, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY

Answered by Mark Rich Medicare Insurance Agent

Rhys Kern · Answer

Medigap has a one-time golden ticket that starts the day your Part B starts and lasts 6 months. Miss it and companies can ask health questions. It is not like the loud yearly Medicare commercials, which are almost all about Advantage plans, not Medigap.

Answered by Rhys Kern on October 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in NC & VA

Answered by Rhys Kern Medicare Insurance Agent

Barbara Cleveland · Answer

You're not alone—most people don’t realize there’s a one-time 6-month Medigap enrollment window that starts when you first get Part B. After that, insurance companies can ask health questions and even deny coverage. It’s one of the most misunderstood parts of Medicare, and honestly, it should be talked about more. That’s why I make sure my clients know their timing options early on.

Answered by Barbara Cleveland on April 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL & MN

Answered by Barbara Cleveland Medicare Insurance Agent

Amie Macklin · Answer

So sorry to hear, unfortunately there are many others like you so you’re not alone. Unfortunately I am not able to change the rules however as an independent Medicare agent, I would be more than happy to explain all your options and find the best plan that fits your needs.

Answered by Amie Macklin on November 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA

Answered by Amie Macklin Medicare Insurance Agent

I missed my Medigap window by a few months and now no one will cover me without underwriting. Why isn't this rule more well known?

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I missed my Medigap window by a few months and now no one will cover me without underwriting. Why isn't this rule more well known?

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