That means your Medigap open enrollment period will start when you're ready to take advantage of it. When your employer coverage ends, you'll get a chance to enroll in Part B without a late enrollment penalty. Employer plans often provide coverage similar to Medigap, so you don't need a Medigap policy. If you have group health coverage through an employer or union because either you or your spouse is currently working, you may want to wait to enroll in Part B. I have group health coverage through an employer or union. If you're able to buy one, it may cost you more. However, some states require Medigap insurance companies to sell you a Medigap policy, even if you're under 65. If you're under 65, you might not be able to buy the Medigap policy you want, or any Medigap policy, until you turn 65. I'm under 65.įederal law doesn't require insurance companies to sell Medigap policies to people under 65. Some states have additional open enrollment periods. For example, if you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B in June, the best time for you to buy a Medigap policy is from June to November.Īfter this enrollment period, your option to buy a Medigap policy may be limited and it may cost more. The best time to buy a Medigap policy is the 6-month period that starts the first day of the month you're 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. In most cases, it makes sense to enroll in Part B when you're first eligible, because you might otherwise have to pay a Part B late enrollment penalty. Your Medigap open enrollment period begins when you enroll in Part B and can't be changed or repeated. However, even if you have health problems, during your Medigap open enrollment period you can buy any policy the company sells for the same price as people with good health.įind your situation below: I'm 65 or older. Medigap insurance companies are generally allowed to use medical underwriting to decide whether to accept your application and how much to charge you for the Medigap policy. If you're able to buy one, it may cost more due to past or present health problems.
After this enrollment period, you may not be able to buy a Medigap policy. This period automatically starts the first month you have Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)Īnd you're 65 or older. During that time you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state, even if you have health problems.
You generally will get better prices and more choices among policies. The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period.