Moving with Medicare: What to Know and What to Do
July 6, 2023 | John Demko
Moving is often a whirlwind of emotions; it’s exciting and stressful all at the same time. Just another thing to add to the long list of to-do’s is your Medicare health insurance coverage. So what do you need to know and what do you need to do when moving with Medicare? We’ve got you covered with all the details in this blog.
Does My Medicare Move with Me?
The number one question we get when people move is ‘Can I keep my Medicare plan?’. The answer to this question depends on the type of Medicare coverage you have. When you move, your Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B move with you. If you have a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy, you can most times keep this type of plan when you move out of state.
If you move with a Medicare Advantage plan or a stand-alone Part D drug plan, you may need to change plans if you are moving outside of the designated service area that the plan is offered. Sometimes you may be able to enroll in a similar plan with the same insurance company even if you are moving outside of the service area of your current plan. Even if your Medicare plan is still available in the area you are moving to, you will also have an opportunity to change plans if new Medicare plan options are available.
Learn more about Medicare Election Periods
Who to Notify
Regardless of your Medicare plan type, you will want to notify Medicare of your move. You can do this by notifying social security in-person, by phone or online. Next, you will want to contact your insurance company that you have your Medicare advantage, supplement, or drug plan through. Additionally, you will also want to inform your insurance agent if you have one; they will be able to answer any questions and help you enroll in a new Medicare plan if necessary.
How to Choose a Medicare Insurance Broker
Know Your Timeline
If you notify your Medicare plan before you move, your Special Election Period allowing you to switch plans begins the month before the month you move and continues for two full months after you move.
If you tell your plan after you’ve moved, you can change plans the month you tell your plan, plus two more full months.
If you have questions about moving with Medicare, Twin City Underwriters can help. Contact us today to find out more about your Medicare options.
Choosing a Medicare plan can be difficult. Twin City Underwriters helps Medicare recipients in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Florida find the Medicare plan that meets their unique needs. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with one of our Medicare insurance brokers to get your questions answered!
Do you need help with Medicare, insurance and health plans? Explore your options with Allina Health Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Minnesota, Medica and UCare. We work with you to find the best plan for your needs and budget. Contact us today to get started.
