Medigap and Medicare Advantage are the best options for seniors who want to cover some or all of the expenses not covered by Original Medicare. Many people struggle deciding which Medicare plan is right: Medigap or Medicare Advantage? Many of our clients ask, “if I first enroll in Medigap, can I then switch to Medicare Advantage down the line?” We’ve got your answer below.
Can You Switch from Medigap to Medicare Advantage?
Yes. Not only you can switch from Medigap to Medicare Advantage (MA), but depending on your situation, this may be a smart move for Medicare-eligible seniors.
Medigap is typically more expensive than Medicare Advantage, so if you start with Medigap but cannot afford it’s monthly premiums, MA can save you money each month.
When to Switch from Medigap to Medicare Advantage?
The best (and often only time) to switch from Medigap to Medicare Advantage is during the Open Enrollment Annual Election Period which runs from Oct 15th to Dec 7th.
To switch during this time, you would enroll in a MA plan which can only start on Jan 1st of the following year. Once you enroll, it will automatically disenroll you of your Medicare Part D drug plan. You will still need to contact your Medigap plan to tell them you are cancelling, though.
Need help switching? Call one of our licensed agents now to discuss your options: 800-930-7956
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Is Switching from Medigap to Medicare Advantage a Smart Move?
If you are about to sign up for the first time and are on the fence between which of the two coverage options you should purchase, we suggest starting with Medigap first.
If you start with Medigap and later switch to a Medicare Advantage, you are guaranteed to be approved on any MA plan at the best price. The reverse is not always true.
With Medigap, you are only guaranteed enrollment when first eligible or due to a Special Enrollment Event like moving outside your MA service area.
So if you start with Medicare Advantage for a few years and then want to switch to Medigap, you usually will first have to answer health questions before being approved. Medigap insurance providers could turn you down or charge you more. Learn about the Medicare Advantage trial right exception.
Once again, we recommend that you first start with Medigap. You are guaranteed to be approved AND you can see how it works for you, if you can afford it, and how your health status evolves. Changing to MA is simple and guaranteed.
Can I go back to my Medigap plan if I don’t like Medicare Advantage?
Yes, but you would have to switch back to the exact same Medigap plan within your first year of your new Medicare Advantage plan. Learn more about trial right switching with Medicare Advantage here.
Things You Must Know about Medigap and Medicare Advantage Switching
Before you enroll in either you must know:
- You cannot have both Medicare Advantage and Medigap
- Regardless of most preexisting conditions, you can enroll in Medicare Advantage each year during AEP Open Enrollment.
- It can be difficult to enroll in Medigap after your 6 month initial enrollment period
The best way to learn if switching from Medigap to Medicare Advantage is right for you is to call one of our licensed agents at 800-930-7956. We can help you identify the correct MA plan and help you enroll right over the phone.
You can also check out every switching option available and choose one that adapts to your situation.