If your clients need to switch or buy a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy, Guaranteed Issue (GI) Rights protect them from being denied coverage or charged higher premiums due to pre-existing health conditions. This means they can get the coverage they need without hassle.
What Are Guaranteed Issue (GI) Rights?
GI Rights allow individuals to enroll in certain Medigap plans without medical underwriting—no health questions or denial for existing conditions. These protections kick in when a person loses other health coverage or meets certain other qualifying situations.
Which Medigap Plans Are Available Under GI Rights?
The available Medigap plan letters depend on when the person became eligible for Medicare Parts A and/or B:
- If Medicare eligibility began before January 1, 2020:
Eligible for Medigap Plans A, B, C, F, K, and L - If Medicare eligibility began on or after January 1, 2020:
Eligible for Medigap Plans A, B, D, G, K, and L
Some insurance companies provide additional options:
- Highmark allows GI enrollment into Plans G and N
- UnitedHealthcare (UHC) allows GI enrollment into Plan N
When Can Clients Use Their GI Rights?
Clients can apply for Medigap coverage using GI rights starting 60 days before their current health coverage ends, up until 63 days after their coverage ends. This window helps ensure they don’t experience gaps in their healthcare protection.
Pro Tip for Agents
When submitting applications, especially online ones with health underwriting questions, double-check your client’s Original Medicare effective date. This date determines which Medigap plan letters are available for GI rights, so accuracy is key to avoid processing delays.
What’s Next?
Medigap plans vary by the level of coverage they offer, and availability can differ depending on the state. Understanding GI rights and the corresponding plan options ensures you help your clients get the right coverage when they need it most.
Contact National Insurance Markets for more information.
