I am shopping for a medicare supplemental plan

[progree]

12. Be sure to sign up for a Medigap aka a Medicare Supplement program within the designated 6 month period

Last edited Sun Dec 3, 2023, 11:14 PM - Edit history (1)

The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This is the 6-month period that starts the first day of the month you're 65 or older and signed up for Part B. After this period, your options to buy a Medigap policy may be limited and the policy may cost more.

Or you can't get a Medigap policy at all.

https://www.medicare.gov/health-drug-plans/medigap/ready-to-buy

EDITED TO ADD

After reading some comments down-thread, there are additional circumstances where one can get a Medigap policy with guaranteed issue rights -- see the section in the above link titled:

What if I miss my Medigap Open Enrollment Period?

There are certain situations where you may be able to buy a Medigap policy outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment period. Situations where an insurance company can’t deny you a Medigap policy are called “guaranteed issue rights” or “Medigap protections.” What are guaranteed issue rights?

Check with your State Insurance Department to see if you can buy a Medigap policy outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. You may have additional rights under state law.

Emphasis added by Progree. In the original clicking on the "What are guaranteed issue rights" triggers a pop-up that give the other circumstances. Similarly, clicking on "State Insurance Department" gives contact information.