“Do I need to renew my Medigap plan every year?” is a question that pops up more than you’d think. Many people are unsure how Medigap works compared to Medicare Advantage or drug plans. Let’s clear things up together.

Do I Have to Renew My Medigap Plan Every Year?

Good news—Medigap plans do not require annual renewal. Once you’re enrolled and continue to pay your monthly premiums, your coverage stays in place year after year. This makes Medigap different from Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans, which you review (and possibly switch) each year during Medicare’s Open Enrollment.

Unlike some other insurance plans, your Medigap policy is guaranteed renewable. This means the insurance company can’t drop you or make you reapply just because you got older or developed a health condition. As long as you pay your premiums on time, your plan stays active.

REMEMBER: Most states DO NOT have an Annual Open Enrollment switching time for Medigap. This means that Oct 15 – Dec 7 Open Enrollment doesn’t usually apply to Medigap. If you want to switch your Medigap plan, check out this guide to switching Medigap.

Can My Medigap Plan Be Canceled?

Under federal law, Medigap insurance companies cannot cancel your policy as long as you keep paying your premiums and provided your application was truthful when you first enrolled. This guarantee offers peace of mind, especially for those dealing with chronic or high-risk health conditions.

However, your Medigap insurer can cancel your coverage if you fail to pay your premiums, misrepresent facts on your application, or if the insurer goes out of business. If you’re concerned about your coverage, contact us at 800-930-7956—we can help you explore new options.

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Help! My Medigap Company Leaves the Market!

If your Medigap insurer pulls out of your state or stops offering your plan, don’t panic—you’re likely eligible for a guaranteed issue right. This means you can enroll in certain new Medigap plan without answering health questions, even if you have pre-existing conditions.

You’ll typically have 63 days from the end of your plan to apply for a new one. Use this time to compare options and apply as soon as possible. Start with our Instant Quote Tool to find available plans in your area.

What If I Miss a Medigap Payment?

Life happens, and sometimes payments get missed. Most Medigap insurers offer a 30-day grace period, meaning you typically have a month after the due date to make your payment before your coverage lapses. However, this window varies by insurer—so check your policy details.

If you’re having trouble making payments, don’t ignore it. Contact your insurance company right away. You may be able to work something out before losing coverage. And remember, once coverage is dropped, you may not be able to reapply without answering health questions. Use our free Instant Medigap Underwriting Checker tool to see how you might do, or just call us directly.

Will My Medigap Premium Increase Each Year?

Yes, most Medigap plans increase premiums annually, but not because of your personal health. Instead, the increases depend on:

Rate increases DO NOT always happen on the first of the year. If your plan receives a big rate increase at any time, call us and we can review your options.

Is My Medigap Still the Best Fit? When to Review Your Plan

Even if your plan is guaranteed renewable, it’s smart to review it if your plan jumps in price. There may be better deals available from other insurers offering the same plan letter.  We suggest getting an Instant Medigap Quote to see real prices in your area. You can also check out our full article “Medicare Insurance Switching: Ultimate Guide“, to explore all your options for switching plans.

Switching Medigap Plans: When Can You Do It Without Health Questions?

Switching Medigap plans without dealing with health questions (yep, that dreaded medical underwriting) isn’t always on the table—but there are key moments when it is totally possible. The biggest one? Your Medigap Initial Open Enrollment Period. It kicks off the month you turn 65 and have Medicare Part B, and for six months, insurers have to accept you—no matter what your health looks like.

Missed that window? There are “Guaranteed Issue rights” in certain situations—like if you lose your job-based coverage or if your Medicare Advantage plan leaves your area. And hey, if you live in some states, there is the Birthday Rule, which gives you a chance to switch plans once a year without any health questions. Knowing when these windows open could save you serious money—and headaches—especially if your health takes a turn later on. Click here to see if there is a Birthday Rule in your state.

How to Cancel Medigap Plans

👉Have more questions? We’ve helped thousands of people navigate Medigap options confidently. Whether you’re exploring a switch or want to review your plan, we’re here for you. Call us at 800-930-7956 or leave a comment—we’ll guide you with no fees, no pressure, and no obligation.