You may be able to keep your Medicare plan even if you move out-of-state, depending on whether you are still within your plan’s coverage region. Moving provides a great opportunity to shop for better and more affordable coverage. For assistance in finding a Medicare plan that works for you, book an appointment with Magellan Healthcare.
Update Medicare Mailing Address
If you only have Original Medicare, which is Medicare Part A and Part B, your coverage stays the same. Medicare covers you nationwide and inside U.S. territories. To keep the paperwork updated, you can simply contact Medicare to let them know that you have moved out-of-state and to provide your new address.
Changing Medicare Advantage or Part D Plans
Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D prescription drug plans provide coverage for specified geographic areas. When you move out-of-state, you will likely be moving out of your Medicare plan’s coverage area. You will need to choose a Medicare plan with coverage in your new state and service area.
If you moved out-of-state but are close enough to your old location that your Medicare plan still provides service in your area, you can choose to keep the plan. However, moving is likely to have opened up other coverage options, so you should consider the other plans available in your area during your special enrollment period.
The special enrollment period that is triggered by these location changes is timed based on when you contact your plan to disenroll and when you move out-of-state. The window lasts for three months, and will start the month before you move if you notify your plan before you move and will start the month you tell your plan if you do not give prior notice.
You Can Keep Your Medicare Supplement
Medicare Supplement plans cover your out-of-pocket expenses when you see providers who accept Medicare. Anywhere in the country that you decide to move to, you should be covered. That is because Medigap plans work with Original Medicare. If you choose to purchase a Medicare Advantage plan in your new state, you will no longer be able to keep your Medicare Supplement; it’s one or the other.
If you want to switch to a different Medicare Supplement that is available in your new state, you should anticipate having to pay higher premiums and may not be accepted if you have serious health concerns. In some specific circumstances, you may be eligible for guaranteed issue rights, and those will let you purchase a plan at the normal rate regardless of any pre-existing conditions.
You know your coverage needs best. Make the most of your move by selecting the best coverage available in your new area. Magellan Healthcare can help you compare your options. Contact our team today to find out how low your rates can be.
