Suppose you’re on Medicare and considering moving to another state. Learning more about how Medicare works in the new state is advisable before you move.
You may also need to adjust your expectations for premium or coverage choices.
How does moving to another state affect medicare?
Suppose you’re planning to move from one state to another. In that case, you must update your information with Social Security and inform them of your new address.
The process is pretty simple and is quick and easy to do. If you receive Medicare through Railroad benefits, you must contact the Railroad Retirement Board to make the change instead of Social Security.
Will I lose my Medicare if I move to another state?
Regarding your Original Medicare, you won’t see a change in coverage or costs. This isn’t the same expectation you should have regarding a Medicare Advantage, Part D Prescription Drug Plan, or Medigap policy.
Moving with Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans are designed based on where you live. When you move out of state, you must choose a new Medicare Advantage Plan.
Medicare Advantage plans are network-based. When moving to a new area, it’s wise to speak with a licensed insurance broker to work with plan providers in your new state.
Medicare Advantage coverage details can vary widely from state to state or county to county, so you should expect your coverage to be different. Some states have more robust benefits on their Medicare Advantage plans than others.
Moving with a Part D prescription drug plan
Like Medicare Advantage plans, Part D plans cover specific areas. If you move out of state, you must get a new Drug plan. While the coverage may be similar, the premiums and coverages could differ.
What happens to my Medigap plan if I move to another state?
Medicare Supplements work a little differently. The coverage is required to be the same, no matter where you live. You should inform your insurance company when you change your address to another state. In many cases, you’ll be able to keep your Medicare Supplement.
Most states have the same plan options. The differences will be what carriers are available and the prices. When moving to a new state, reviewing the pricing in your new area is wise.
Changing your plan or carrier may be in your best interest as the new state’s premiums could be lower. It’s also true that the new state may be more expensive.
Moving from one state to another doesn’t give you a Guarantee Right to change to another Medigap. If you decide to change plans or companies, you’ll likely be required to answer health questions.
Suppose you decide not to change the plan or aren’t healthy enough to do so. In that case, your policy premium will most likely slowly increase to reflect the plans’ costs in your state.
FAQs
How to transfer medicare to another state?
You’ll need to update your information with Social Security and inform them of your new address information. If you want secondary coverage, you should tell your insurance company about the move. In some cases, you can keep the same plan. In other situations, you must change a plan in the new state.
Can you use medicare in another state?
Yes!! With Original Medicare and Medigap plans, you can visit any healthcare provider nationwide that accepts Medicare. However, with Medicare Advantage plans, you may have to pay more for out-of-network coverage if you’re enrolled in a PPO, or only have emergency coverage if you’re enrolled in an HMO.
I have a Medicare Advantage plan. What happens if I move?
If you move to a new state with a Medicare Advantage plan, you’ll need to pick up a new program in the state you are moving to in most cases. Coverage and premiums may vary from state to state.
I have a Part D Prescription Drug Plan. What happens if I move?
If you have a Part D plan and move to a new state, you must get a new prescription drug plan. The coverage may be similar, but the premiums could be different.
I have a Medigap policy. What happens if I move?
Suppose you have a Medigap policy and move to a new state. In that case, you’ll need to update your information with your insurance company and inform them of your new address. Most of the time, you can stay with your current plan. However, it’s wise to review pricing in your new state as it may be more or less expensive than in your former state.
What if I’m not healthy enough to change my plan?
If you’re not healthy enough to switch plans, your premiums will slowly increase to reflect the plans’ costs in your new state.
How do I know what plan is available in my new state?
Speaking with a broker specializing in Medicare in the new state is the best way to get all the information in one spot.
Getting help with Medicare when you’re on the move
Moving is already stressful enough and doesn’t need to be made worse by having to wonder how your Medicare coverage will work. We’re here to help ensure no lapses or large, unexpected cost increases to your existing plan.
Our licensed insurance agents can help hook you up with a Medigap plan or answer any questions related to Medicare that you may have.
So, when you’re ready to find your Medigap options, call us. Or fill out our convenient online rate form to receive the best rates in your new area.
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