Enrolling in a Medigap Policy: Purchasing Supplemental Insurance

A Medigap Policy is insurance created to supplement your Original Medicare Plan. It helps to cover some limitations of the plan’s coverage.

Policies will, of course, vary by available plans, coverage, and price. Therefore, before enrolling, make sure you spend time researching the plans and providers available to you, and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. After you’ve selected the plan and company you are going with, it’s time to apply.

To apply, contact the company directly. They are required to provide you with a coherent summary of your policy, so spend some time reading it and ensuring that you understand it. If you don’t, feel free to ask as many questions as you need to ask. Never sign anything without knowing exactly what you are agreeing to. Once you’ve read the summary and are certain you understand it, fill out the application fully. Be as truthful and thorough as possible. If someone else fills your form out for you, go over it and make sure it is completely correct.

After applying, your policy will usually start the first month after you apply. You can request a specific start date if you like as well. If you don’t get your policy within 30 days you should definitely call the insurance company, and if you still haven’t gotten in within 60 days, you should call the State Insurance Department in your area.

When you pay for your Medigap policy, you can use a bank draft, a check, or a money order. Don’t make your payment out to the agent who was helping you with your enrollment. Rather, make it out directly to the company providing you with your coverage.