Moving and Have Medicare: What You Need to Know
Moving and Have Medicare? What You Need to Know
Relocating can be an exciting yet challenging time, especially for Medicare beneficiaries. Moving to a new state or even within the same state can impact your Medicare coverage. At Advocate Health Advisors, we aim to educate and support our beneficiaries through every life transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you need to know if you are moving and have Medicare.
Understanding How Moving Affects Your Medicare Coverage
When you move, it’s important to understand how your Medicare coverage might be affected. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to consider based on different types of Medicare plans:
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B)
Original Medicare is a federal program and is not limited by state lines. If you have Original Medicare, your coverage will remain the same regardless of where you move in the United States. However, it’s important to update your address with Social Security to ensure you receive important information about your benefits.
Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)
Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private insurance companies and often have networks of doctors and hospitals. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan and move out of your plan’s service area, you will need to enroll in a new plan that covers your new location. Here’s what you need to do:
- Notify Your Plan Provider: Inform your current Medicare Advantage plan provider about your move. This will trigger a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), allowing you to switch to a new plan.
- Research New Plans: Look for Medicare Advantage plans available in your new area. Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool on the Medicare website or consult with one of our knowledgeable agents at Advocate Health Advisors for personalized assistance.
- Enroll in a New Plan: Choose and enroll in a new plan that meets your needs in your new location.
Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Plans)
Like Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Part D plans also have service areas. If you move out of your current plan’s service area, you will need to select a new Part D plan that covers your new location. Follow these steps:
- Notify Your Plan Provider: Inform your current Part D plan provider about your move to initiate a Special Enrollment Period.
- Compare Plans: Research and compare Part D plans available in your new area.
- Enroll in a New Plan: Select and enroll in a new Part D plan that suits your prescription drug needs.
Medigap (Supplemental Insurance)
Medigap policies are standardized but are sold by private insurance companies. If you move to a new state, you can keep your current Medigap policy. However, if you want to switch policies or if your policy is not offered in your new location, you may need to apply for a new Medigap policy. Keep these tips in mind:
- Check Availability: Confirm that your current Medigap policy is available in your new state.
- Switching Policies: If you decide to switch, understand that you may be subject to medical underwriting, which could affect your eligibility or premiums.
Steps to Take When You Move
- Update Your Address: Contact Social Security to update your address. You can do this online through your My Social Security account, by phone, or by visiting your local Social Security office.
- Contact Your Medicare Plan Providers: Inform your Medicare Advantage, Part D, or Medigap plan providers about your move.
- Review Your Coverage Options: Use the Special Enrollment Period to review and select new plans if necessary.
- Seek Assistance: Advocate Health Advisors is here to help. Our experienced local and licensed agents can guide you through the process of transitioning your Medicare coverage when you move.
Conclusion
Moving can bring about many changes, but with the right information and support, managing your Medicare coverage doesn’t have to be stressful. Advocate Health Advisors provides you with the education and resources you need to make informed decisions about your healthcare.