2021 Colorado Medicare Supplement Special Enrollment Period [Medigap SEP]

by | May 26, 2021 | Colorado Medicare Supplement, Medicare, Special Enrollment Period | 0 comments

2021 Colorado Medicare Supplement Special Enrollment Period [Medigap SEP]
If you’re a Colorado resident who is currently enrolled in a Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap) then listen up.
2021 Colorado Medicare Supplement Special Enrollment Period [Medigap SEP]
The Colorado Secretary of State has recently announced a new Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for all Medigap participants who are currently enrolled in plan C or F. During the SEP, which lasts until June 30th, 2021, Medigap enrollees can change to a different plan without being subject to any penalties or underwriting requirements.

While there is no requirement that you take advantage of the SEP, it could be a good opportunity to get into a plan that is more aligned with your long-term interests.

The specifics: What you can do during the 2021 Colorado Medigap Special Enrollment Period

The SEP does have some eligibility restrictions. Specifically, it only allows people who are enrolled in Plan F to switch to Plan G, or Plan C policy holders to switch to Plan D. The SEP is also limited to individuals who were already enrolled in Medicare before Jan. 1, 2020.

If you’re enrolled in a Medigap policy that isn’t Plan C, Plan F, or high deductible Plan F, then the SEP doesn’t apply to you.

Does the “Free Look Period” still apply?

According to Colorado Medicare rules, you have 30 days after signing up for a Medigap policy to decide if you want to keep it. This is called the “Free Look Period”, which is an effective way to shop for new coverage.

But know this: If you’re using the Free Look Period to explore a new Medigap policy, don’t cancel your first Medigap policy until you know you want to keep the new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When does the Special Enrollment Period in Colorado for Medigap participants currently enrolled in Plan C or Plan F end?
A: The special enrollment period lasts until June 30th, 2021.
Q: What can a Plan C or Plan F policy holder do during the special enrollment period?
A: Coloradoans who have a Medigap Plan C, or Plan F, can switch to a Plan D, or Plan G, respectively, with no underwriting.
Q: Why would I want to switch from Plan C to Plan D, or Plan F to Plan G?
A: Plan C and Plan F have both been discontinued for new enrollees. This will lead to shrinking pools, and likely much higher rates. Since you may not be able to switch in the future due to pre-existing conditions, switching to a very similar plan now may save you money.
Q: What if I miss this open enrollment period?
A: If you are in pretty good health, you may still be able to switch Medigap plans at any time. Contact your Personal Benefits Manager to find out if you can change plans.

MediGap Advisors is your resource for Medicare, Medicare Advantage, MediGap, and the Special Enrollment Period

If you have questions about how the Colorado Medigap Special Enrollment Period might apply to you, give us a call. Our Personal Benefits Managers have the up-to-date, comprehensive tools and information to make sure that you’re getting into the plan that you need.

Want to learn more about how to navigate the labyrinth of Medicare? Subscribe to the MediGap Advisors Blog for the latest tips, tricks, and advice.

Here are some additional articles on Medicare Supplement plans: When to Sign Up for a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage Plan | What’s the Difference Between an MSA and a Medicare MSA Plan?

Here are some additional pages related to this article: Medicare Supplement Insurance | Medicare Supplement Options

Wiley Long is founder and president of Medigap Advisors, and is passionate about helping people navigate the confusing waters of Medicare. He is the author of The Medicare Playbook: Designing Your Successful Health Coverage Strategy, a clear and simple explanation so you can make the most of your Medicare coverage.