Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, helps cover out-of-pocket costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that Original Medicare doesn’t pay. But, unlike Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplements don’t have an annual enrollment period. So, when is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period, and why does it matter?
The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during the Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP), a one-time 6-month window that starts when you’re 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, you have guaranteed issue rights, meaning you can buy any Medigap policy without medical underwriting. If you miss this window, you could face higher premiums or even denial of coverage.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- When the Medigap Open Enrollment Period happens
- Why it’s crucial not to miss it
- What happens if you enroll late
- How to compare Medigap plans effectively
Don’t wait until it’s too late! Get a free Medigap quote today:
What Is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period?
The Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is a one-time 6-month window when you can buy a Medigap policy without medical underwriting. This means insurance companies must accept you, even if you have pre-existing health conditions.
Key Features of the Medigap OEP:
- Starts when you’re both 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B
- Lasts for six months
- No medical underwriting required
- Best opportunity to lock in affordable rates
What happens if you apply outside of OEP?
- Insurance companies can deny your application due to pre-existing conditions
- You may face higher premiums based on your health
- Some plans may impose waiting periods for coverage
When Is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period?
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period begins the first day of the month you are both 65 years old and enrolled in Medicare Part B.
Examples:
- John turns 65 on April 10 and enrolls in Medicare Part B starting April 1. His Medigap OEP runs from April 1 to September 30.
- Susan turns 65 in June but delays enrolling in Part B until she retires at 68. Her Medigap OEP starts when her Part B coverage begins, not at age 65.
Key takeaway: If you delay Medicare Part B (e.g., due to employer coverage), your Medigap OEP does not begin until you enroll in Part B.
Why Is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period So Important?
Enrolling during OEP is your best chance to get a Medigap policy without medical underwriting. This means:
- You can’t be denied coverage, even with pre-existing conditions
- You won’t pay higher premiums due to your health
- You have access to all available plans in your area
Outside of OEP, you’ll face:
- Medical underwriting, meaning insurers can deny you coverage
- Higher premiums, especially if you have health issues
- Limited plan choices, as some carriers may reject your application
Don’t take chances—compare Medigap plans now:
Get a FREE Medicare Supplement Rate Comparison Report from Medicare.org.
Our report gives you the essential details you need to make an informed decision—no sales pressure, just transparent information.
Medicare.org is owned by Allstate but operates independently to provide unbiased rate information. We prioritize education, transparency, and your trust.
What If You Miss the Medigap Open Enrollment Period?
If you don’t enroll during OEP, you may still be able to purchase a Medigap policy, but:
- You’ll likely have to answer health questions
- Insurers can deny your application or charge higher rates
- You may face a waiting period for pre-existing conditions
Exceptions: Special Enrollment & Guaranteed Issue Rights
- Losing employer coverage after age 65
- Moving out of your Medicare Advantage plan’s service area
- Your Medigap insurer goes bankrupt or discontinues your plan
Why You Should Compare Medigap Quotes & Rate Increase History
Medigap plans are standardized, meaning the benefits are the same across different insurers. However, prices vary widely between carriers—even for the same plan.
Why comparing quotes matters:
- Premiums can differ by hundreds of dollars per year for the same plan
- Some insurers raise rates more aggressively over time
- Discounts (e.g., household, non-smoker) can help lower costs
Don’t assume the first quote is the best deal! Compare plans now:
Get a FREE Medicare Supplement Rate Comparison Report from Medicare.org.
Our report gives you the essential details you need to make an informed decision—no sales pressure, just transparent information.
Medicare.org is owned by Allstate but operates independently to provide unbiased rate information. We prioritize education, transparency, and your trust.
FAQs About the Medigap Open Enrollment Period
Can I buy Medigap before I turn 65?
In most states, you must be 65 to qualify for Medigap. However, some states offer Medigap to people under 65 with disabilities.
Does the Medigap Open Enrollment Period happen every year?
No. Unlike Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), your Medigap OEP is a one-time event when you first enroll in Medicare Part B.
Can I switch Medigap plans later?
You can apply for a new Medigap plan anytime, but outside of OEP, insurers can require medical underwriting and may deny your application.
What if I delay enrolling in Medicare Part B?
Your Medigap OEP will not start until you enroll in Part B. If you delay Part B due to employer coverage, your Medigap OEP will begin once your Part B starts.
Are Medigap plans different in each state?
While Medigap benefits are standardized at the federal level, some states have unique rules, including extra protections for consumers.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss Your One-Time Opportunity
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the best time to secure a Medicare Supplement plan with no medical underwriting.
Start your Medigap search now with free, no-obligation quotes:
Get a FREE Medicare Supplement Rate Comparison Report from Medicare.org.
Our report gives you the essential details you need to make an informed decision—no sales pressure, just transparent information.
Medicare.org is owned by Allstate but operates independently to provide unbiased rate information. We prioritize education, transparency, and your trust.