Suppose you’re on Medicare and considering moving to another state. In that case, it’s advisable to learn more about how Medicare works in the new state before you move.
You may also need to adjust your expectations for premium or coverage choices.
How Does Moving Affect Medicare?
Suppose you’re planning to move from one state to another. In that case, you must update your information with Social Security and inform them of your new address.
The process is pretty simple and is quick and easy to do. If you receive Medicare through Railroad benefits, you must contact the Railroad Retirement Board to make the change instead of Social Security.
Will I Lose My Medicare if I Move to Another State?
As far as your Original Medicare is concerned, you won’t see a change in coverage or costs. This isn’t the same expectation you should have regarding a Medicare Advantage, Part D Prescription Drug Plan, or Medigap policy.
Moving with Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are designed based on where you live. When you move out of state, rest assured that you’ll need to choose a new Medicare Advantage Plan.
Medicare Advantage plans are network-based. When moving to a new area, it’s wise to speak with a licensed insurance broker that can work with plan providers in your new state.
Medicare Advantage coverage details can vary widely from state to state or even from county to county, so you should expect your coverage to be different. Some states have more robust benefits on their Medicare Advantage plans than others.
Moving with a Part D Prescription Drug Plan
Like Medicare Advantage plans, Part D plans cover specific areas. If you move out of state, you’ll have to get a new Drug plan. While the coverage may be similar, the premiums and coverages could differ.
Moving with a Medigap Policy
Medicare Supplements work a little differently. The coverage is required to be the same no matter where you live. You should inform your insurance company when you change your address to another state. In many cases, you’ll be able to keep your Medicare Supplement.
Most states have the same plan options. The differences will be what carriers are available and the prices. When moving to a new state, reviewing the pricing in your new area is wise.
Changing your plan or carrier may be in your best interest as the new state’s premiums could be lower. It’s also true that the new state may be more expensive.
Moving from one state to another doesn’t give you a Guarantee Right to change to another Medigap. If you decide you want to change plans or companies, you’ll be required to answer health questions in most cases.
Suppose you decide not to change the plan or aren’t healthy enough to do so. In that case, your policy premium will slowly increase to reflect the costs of the plans in your state in most cases.
FAQs
I’m moving to a new state. What do I need to do?
You’ll need to update your information with Social Security and inform them of your new address information. If you want secondary coverage, you should tell your current insurance company about the move. In some cases, you can keep the same plan. In other situations, you’ll need to change to a plan in the new state.
I have a Medicare Advantage plan. What happens if I move?
If you move to a new state with a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll need to pick up a new program in the state you are moving to in most cases. Coverage and premiums may vary from state to state.
I have a Part D Prescription Drug Plan. What happens if I move?
If you have a Part D plan and move to a new state, you’ll need to get a new prescription drug plan. The coverage may be similar, but the premiums could be different.
I have a Medigap policy. What happens if I move?
Suppose you have a Medigap policy and move to a new state. In that case, you’ll need to update your information with your insurance company and inform them of your new address. Most of the time, you can stay with your current plan. However, it’s wise to review pricing in your new state as it may be more or less expensive than in your former state.
What if I’m not healthy enough to change my plan?
If you’re not healthy enough to switch plans, your premiums will slowly increase over time to reflect the plans’ costs in your new state.
How do I know what plan is available in my new state?
Speaking with a broker specializing in Medicare in the new state is the best way to get all the information in one spot.
Getting Help with Medicare When You’re On The Move
Moving is already a stressful enough and doesn’t need to be made worse by having to wonder how your Medicare coverage will work. We’re here to help make sure there are no lapses or large, unexpected cost increases to your existing plan.
Our licensed insurance agents can help hook you up with a Medigap plan or answer any questions related to Medicare that you may have.
So, when you’re ready to find your Medigap options, call us. Or fill out our convenient online rate form to receive the best rates in your new area.
