Can I Switch From Medicare Advantage to Medigap?

See if you qualify to switch, free at 1-800-MEDIGAP.

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Quick answer

Yes, you can switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare with a Medigap policy, but only during specific windows, and outside guaranteed-issue situations insurers can medically underwrite you, meaning they may charge more or deny coverage based on your health. Timing and your state's rules matter greatly.

Switching from Medicare Advantage to Medigap is possible but has rules. Here is what you need to know first.

How the switch works

To move from Medicare Advantage to Medigap, you first drop your Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare during a valid window, the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31) or the Annual Election Period (October 15 to December 7). Then you apply for a Medigap policy and usually a standalone Part D drug plan. The catch is that buying Medigap after your initial 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment window often requires medical underwriting, so insurers can review your health. Some situations grant guaranteed-issue rights that waive underwriting. A 1-800-MEDIGAP advisor can tell you which applies to you.

When can you switch without underwriting?

Certain protections let you buy Medigap without health questions. If you joined Medicare Advantage when you first turned 65 and switch back to Original Medicare within your first 12 months (the trial right), you have a guaranteed-issue right to Medigap. Other guaranteed-issue triggers include your plan leaving Medicare or moving out of its service area. A few states, like New York and Connecticut, allow year-round guaranteed-issue Medigap. Outside these, underwriting applies. Because the rules are nuanced and state-specific, call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427) to find out exactly when and how you can switch.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap?+

Yes. You can drop Medicare Advantage, return to Original Medicare during a valid enrollment window, and buy a Medigap policy. However, outside guaranteed-issue situations, Medigap insurers can use medical underwriting and may charge more or deny coverage based on your health. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to check your options.

Will I have to answer health questions to get Medigap?+

Usually yes, unless you have a guaranteed-issue right. Outside your initial 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment, the trial right, or other protected situations, insurers can medically underwrite Medigap applications. A 1-800-MEDIGAP advisor can determine whether you qualify for guaranteed-issue coverage without health questions.

What is the Medicare Advantage trial right?+

The trial right lets you try Medicare Advantage when you first join at 65, and if you switch back to Original Medicare within 12 months, you get a guaranteed-issue right to buy Medigap without medical underwriting. It's a one-time protection for first-time Advantage enrollees.

When can I make the switch?+

You can return to Original Medicare during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31) or the fall Annual Election Period (October 15 to December 7). You then apply for Medigap, which may involve underwriting depending on timing. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to plan the switch.

Can a Medigap insurer deny me coverage?+

Yes, outside guaranteed-issue periods. If you apply for Medigap with medical underwriting, an insurer can charge higher premiums or deny you based on health conditions. During guaranteed-issue windows, they cannot. Understanding your timing is critical, so call 1-800-MEDIGAP before dropping your Advantage plan.

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