How To Change Medicare Supplement Plans

Medicare supplement insurance, or Medigap, is an optional health insurance plan offered by independent insurance agencies designed to "fill the gaps" in Medicare coverage and help Medicare beneficiaries get the health coverage they need. If you are unhappy with your coverage or the service you are receiving from your insurance company, you can switch Medicare supplement plans.

Instructions

• 1

  Compare the Medigap plans offered in your state by visiting Medicare.gov, and clicking on the Resource Locater. Click on "Medigap Policies" and fill in the information about where you live and your health. Click continue, and compare the benefits offered by each plan in your area. Click on the links to view the companies that offer the plan in your area.

• 2

  Contact the company that offers the plan you wish to buy. Depending on the company, you may be able to enroll over the phone with an in-house representative, or the company may direct you to an independent insurance agent in your area who will help you enroll.

• 3

  Enroll in the new plan according to the policies and procedures of that insurance company. Depending on the company's policies, you may need to pay a month's premium in advance.

• 4

  Cancel your previous Medicare supplement plan after 30 days with the new plan. Federal law allows you to take 30 days to decide if you want to keep the new plan. To cancel your first Medicare supplement plan, call the company and follow the instructions the representative provides; you may need to request the cancellation in writing.