What Happens to Your Medicare Coverage When You Move to a Different State

Moving to a new state affects your Medicare coverage differently depending on what type of coverage you have. Understanding these impacts helps you maintain continuous coverage during your relocation.

Original Medicare Portability. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) works nationwide. You can see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare regardless of which state you're in. When you move permanently to a new state, you don't need to do anything with your Original Medicare coverage—it automatically continues.

Medicare Advantage Plan Changes. Medicare Advantage plans have service areas, typically by county or state. When you move outside your plan's service area, you have a Special Enrollment Period to choose a new Medicare Advantage plan available in your new location, or switch to Original Medicare. You must notify your plan about your move within 90 days.

Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. Like Medicare Advantage, Part D plans operate in specific service areas. Moving outside your plan's service area triggers a Special Enrollment Period allowing you to select a new Part D plan. Your pharmacy network will change, so review available plans in your new area.

Medigap Policy Transfers. Medigap policies are guaranteed renewable, so your policy continues when you move to a new state. However, you'll need to update your address with your insurance company. In some cases, particularly moves to states with different Medigap regulations, you might want to explore new Medigap options, though you won't have guaranteed issue rights unless you qualify for specific exceptions.

Timeline for Changes. Report your move to Social Security and your insurance plans promptly. Your Special Enrollment Period begins the month you notify your plan about your move and lasts for two full months afterward. Research available plans in your new location before moving when possible to ensure a smooth transition.