Medigap Open Enrollment Period

The Medigap Open Enrollment Period is a time-limited enrollment window that provides important consumer protections when purchasing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy. During this period, insurers generally may not deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on health conditions.

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When the Medigap Open Enrollment Period Begins

In most cases, the Medigap Open Enrollment Period begins when an individual is both age 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. This enrollment window typically lasts for six months and runs once during a person’s lifetime under federal rules.

What Protections Apply During This Period

During the Medigap Open Enrollment Period, insurers generally must offer any Medigap plan they sell in the applicant’s state. Medical underwriting is not permitted, meaning pre-existing health conditions generally cannot be used to deny coverage or increase premiums during this window.

After the Open Enrollment Period

After the Medigap Open Enrollment Period ends, an individual may still apply for a Medigap policy. However, acceptance may depend on medical underwriting unless a Guaranteed Issue right applies. Availability and rules may vary by state and circumstance.

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Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is based on publicly available guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It has not been reviewed or endorsed by Medicare, CMS, or any federal agency. This content does not constitute plan-specific advice. For individual coverage questions, please consult a licensed insurance professional.