You can usually keep your policy
Medicare's guide Choosing a Medigap Policy says that, in general, you can keep your current Medigap policy regardless of where you live as long as you still have Original Medicare. Ohio's rule (OAC 3901-8-08) requires every Medigap policy to be guaranteed renewable: the company can cancel or refuse to renew only for nonpayment of premium or material misrepresentation, not because you moved or got sick.
- Benefits stay the same. A standardized plan letter covers the same things in every state.
- Your premium may change. Medigap premiums vary by where you live, so your rate may change.
- Update your address with Social Security and your Medigap company.
Medicare SELECT is different
A Medicare SELECT policy requires you to use certain providers. If you move out of its service area, Medicare.gov says you can buy another standardized policy from your current company with the same or fewer benefits, or use a guaranteed-issue right to buy certain Medigap plans in your new state. Apply as early as 60 days before and no later than 63 days after your SELECT coverage ends.
If you want a different policy
Outside your open enrollment period and guaranteed-issue situations, a company in your new state can review your health before selling you a policy. Some states have their own extra rights, such as a yearly birthday window, so ask your new state's insurance department. Keep your Ohio policy until a new one is approved.
If you have Medicare Advantage instead
Medicare Advantage plans have service areas. If you move out of yours, you get a special enrollment period to choose new coverage, and a guaranteed-issue right to buy Medigap if you switch to Original Medicare. See moving with Medicare.
Before you move
- Call your Medigap company. Ask how your premium will change at your new address.
- Plan for Part D. Choose a plan that serves your new state.
- Check your new state's Medigap rules. Some give more switching rights than Ohio.
Spending only winters away? Medigap still works there; see Florida snowbirds and Medicare. To review your options, you can request a call from a licensed insurance agent. See also Medigap in Ohio.
Related questions
Does Ohio Medigap work in Florida?
Using your policy while you winter south.
Can I switch Medigap plans in Ohio?
How switching works without a birthday rule.
Does Ohio have a Medigap birthday rule?
No, and what that means.
Sources
- CMS — Choosing a Medigap Policy (moving and Medicare SELECT)
- Ohio Administrative Code 3901-8-08, Medicare supplement (guaranteed renewability, guaranteed issue)
- Medicare.gov — Can I change my Medigap policy?
- Medicare.gov — Get Medigap costs
More questions in this guide
- Are Medigap rates in Ohio based on age?
- Can I get Medigap under 65 in Ohio?
- Can I get Medigap with pre-existing conditions in Ohio?
- Can I switch Medigap plans in Ohio?
- Does Ohio have a Medigap birthday rule?
- Is Medigap Plan F still available in Ohio?
- What is the difference between Medigap Plan G and Plan N?
- When can I buy Medigap in Ohio?
Part of the guide: Medigap (Medicare Supplement) in Ohio · All questions
Frequently asked questions
Will my premium change after I move?
It can. Medicare.gov says Medigap premiums vary by where you live, so ask your company how your rate will change at your new address before you move.
Do I have a guaranteed right to a new policy when I move?
Not usually. Under federal law, moving alone gives a guaranteed-issue right only if you have a Medicare SELECT policy or a Medicare Advantage plan and move out of its service area. Some states add their own rights; check with your new state's insurance department.
Does my new state's birthday rule apply to me?
If your new state has a birthday or yearly switching rule, it generally applies to residents of that state. Ohio has no such rule, so moving to a state that has one can give you more options. Check the new state's rules.
What about my Part D plan?
Standalone Part D plans have service areas. Ohio is its own Part D region, so a permanent move out of Ohio means choosing a new Part D plan, and the move gives you a special enrollment period.
Medicare in your Ohio county
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