You can usually keep your policy
A standardized Medigap policy renews automatically every year, even if you have health problems, and the company can drop you only if you stop paying, weren't truthful on your application, or the company goes bankrupt. A move isn't on that list. CMS's guide says you can generally keep your current Medigap policy regardless of where you live, as long as you still have Original Medicare.
Because Medigap pays its share wherever Medicare pays, your coverage follows you. That also helps people who split the year between North Carolina and another state; you don't need to move your policy to use it there.
What changes when you leave North Carolina
- Your premium may change. Premiums vary by where you live; ask your company before you move.
- Your Part D plan. Standalone Part D plans are sold by region, and North Carolina is a region of its own (Region 8), with 11 plans for 2027. Moving out of your plan's service area gives you a special enrollment period to pick a new drug plan.
- Your state's rules. North Carolina's Medigap law protects policies delivered here. In your new state, its insurance department and its rules apply to new purchases. Check whether it offers rights North Carolina doesn't, such as a birthday rule.
- Your address. Update it with Social Security, which handles Medicare address changes, and with your Medigap company.
If you want a different Medigap policy
- Check for a guaranteed-issue right. Moving out of a Medicare SELECT area, or out of a Medicare Advantage plan's service area while returning to Original Medicare, gives you one.
- Otherwise, expect health questions. Outside open enrollment, a company in your new state can review your health and may say no or charge more.
- Keep your old policy until a new one is approved. Then cancel it, so you're never without coverage.
Moving to North Carolina instead? See moving to North Carolina with Medicare. To compare Medigap policies from the companies they work with, you can request a call from a licensed insurance agent. More in Medigap in North Carolina.
Related questions
Can I switch Medigap plans in North Carolina?
How switching works here.
Does North Carolina have a Medigap birthday rule?
No; what that means.
When can I buy Medigap in North Carolina?
Every protected window.
Sources
- CMS — Choosing a Medigap Policy (If I move out of state)
- Medicare.gov — Learn how Medigap works
- Medicare.gov — Get Medigap costs
- N.C. General Assembly — G.S. Chapter 58, Article 54
More questions in this guide
- Are Medigap rates based on age in North Carolina?
- Can I get Medigap under 65 in North Carolina?
- Can I get a Medicare Supplement with pre-existing conditions in North Carolina?
- Can I switch Medigap plans in North Carolina?
- Does North Carolina have a Medigap birthday rule?
- Medigap Plan G vs. Plan N in North Carolina
- When can I buy a Medicare Supplement plan in North Carolina?
Part of the guide: Medigap (Medicare Supplement) in North Carolina · All questions
Frequently asked questions
Will my Medigap premium change if I move?
It may. Medigap premiums depend partly on where you live, so ask your company how a move affects your rate before you go.
Do I need a new Part D plan if I leave North Carolina?
Usually yes. North Carolina is its own Part D region, so a standalone Part D plan sold here generally doesn't serve other states. Moving out of your plan's service area gives you a special enrollment period to join a new one.
Does my new state's birthday rule apply to me?
Medigap switching rules are state law and generally depend on where you live. Check with the new state's insurance department about what rights you might have there.
What if I have a Medicare SELECT policy?
If you move out of a Medicare SELECT policy's area, you have a guaranteed-issue right to buy Plan A, B, D or G (C or F if eligible before 2020) or a SELECT policy in your new area, from 60 days before to 63 days after the SELECT policy ends.
Medicare in your North Carolina county
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