Guide to Changing Medicare Supplement Plans with Pre-Existing Conditions

Changing Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans can be challenging, especially if you have a pre-existing condition. When switching plans, many people worry about medical underwriting, denials, and waiting periods.

The good news? Some states have special rules that allow easier switching, and there are specific enrollment periods when you can change plans without medical underwriting.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• When can you switch Medigap plans without health questions
• Which states allow easier plan changes
• How pre-existing condition waiting periods work
• Answers to common Medigap switching FAQs

Can You Switch Medicare Supplement Plans with Pre-Existing Conditions?

Yes, but your timing matters. In most states, Medigap insurers can deny coverage, charge higher premiums, or impose waiting periods if you apply outside specific enrollment windows.

1. Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP) – The Best Time to Switch

• Begins when you first enroll in Medicare Part B at 65+
• Lasts 6 months
• No medical underwriting – pre-existing conditions don’t affect approval

2. Switching Outside of Open Enrollment – Medical Underwriting Applies

• Most insurers can deny coverage or charge more based on health
• A 6-month waiting period may apply for pre-existing conditions

3. Special Guaranteed Issue Rights – No Health Questions Required

• Your insurer goes out of business or stops offering your plan
• You move out of your plan’s coverage area
• You lose employer-sponsored Medicare coverage
• You switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare within 12 months

State-Specific Rules: Where You Can Switch More Easily

Some states have special Medigap switching rules that allow changes without medical underwriting. If you live in one of these states, switching plans is easier and safer.

State	Rule Name	Details
California	Birthday Rule	60-day window after your birthday to switch to a plan of equal or lesser value.
Oregon	Birthday Rule	30-day window after your birthday to switch to a plan of equal or lesser value.
Missouri	Anniversary Rule	60-day window around your policy anniversary to switch to another Medigap plan from the same insurer.
Connecticut	Continuous Open Enrollment	Medigap available year-round with no medical underwriting.
New York	Continuous Open Enrollment	Medigap available year-round with no medical underwriting.
Maine	Annual Guaranteed Issue Right	Can switch to a different Medigap Plan C or F once per year without underwriting.

Medigap Waiting Periods for Pre-Existing Conditions

• Some Medigap insurers impose a 6-month waiting period before covering pre-existing conditions.
• You can avoid the waiting period by maintaining continuous health coverage for at least 6 months.

FAQs: Changing Medigap Plans with Pre-Existing Conditions

Can I be denied a Medigap plan because of my health?

Yes, unless you apply during Medigap Open Enrollment or a state/federal guaranteed issue period.

Which states let me switch Medigap plans without health questions?

California, Oregon, Missouri, Connecticut, New York, and Maine have special rules (see the table above).

If I switch Medigap plans, will I have a waiting period?

Only if you didn’t have continuous coverage for 6+ months, otherwise, your new plan must cover you immediately.

Does Original Medicare cover pre-existing conditions?

Yes! Medicare Part A & Part B cover pre-existing conditions, but Medigap rules are different.

What if my Medigap insurer goes out of business?

You get a guaranteed issue right to buy another Medigap plan without medical underwriting.

Conclusion: Know Your Rights & Compare Plans

• Best time to switch: During Medigap Open Enrollment or if your state has special rules.
• Medical underwriting may apply if you switch outside these periods.
• Avoid waiting periods by keeping continuous coverage.
• Check your state’s laws—some allow easier plan switching.

📢 Want to explore Medigap options? Get a free quote below!