Medicare: My Plan is being eliminated by the insurer

If your plan is ending — for example, on December 31 — you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. This is different from the regular Open Enrollment Period. This period typically begins when you are notified and runs for a limited time after your plan ends. To keep your coverage smooth with no gap, make your choice by December 31. That way your new plan begins January 1.

This period typically begins when you are notified and runs for a limited time after your plan ends.

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Step 1: Timing

If your plan ends, you have a Special Enrollment Period which is different than open enrollment.

• You can pick a new plan starting in the fall.

• To keep your coverage smooth with no gap, make your choice by December 31. That way your new plan begins January 1.

Step 2: What Are Your Options?

• Join another Medicare Advantage or drug plan that fits your needs.

• Go back to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), and add a Part D plan for prescriptions.

• Add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan if you return to Original Medicare. This helps cover costs that Medicare doesn’t, like copayments and deductibles.

Step 3: If I go with Medicare Supplement (Medigap), will I be accepted?

Here’s the good news: if your plan is ending, you usually have a “guaranteed right” to get a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan. That means you can sign up without health questions or denials — as long as you do it within 63 days of your plan ending.

Takeaway

If your plan goes away, you still have Medicare. The key is choosing your next step — and doing it on time so you don’t have a gap.

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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Benefits, costs, and coverage vary by plan and area. Medicare rules may change.