Effective January 1, 2022, Illinois will be implementing a birthday rule for Medicare Supplement policyholders. This means that all Medigap beneficiaries residing in the state will have an annual opportunity to change their Medigap plan, without needing to undergo medical underwriting and answer health questions. We’re here with all the information you need about this new rule!
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New Illinois Birthday Rule for Medigap Plans
Each year, Illinois Medigap recipients between the ages of 65 and 75 will have a chance to change their current Medigap plan. The new policy must be of equal or lesser benefit. Additionally, the new policy must be from the same Medicare Supplement insurance carrier.
The time during which this change is possible is a 45-day window that the Illinois birthday rule provides. Starting on their date of birth, people with existing Medigap plans may make such changes without the need for Medicare Supplement underwriting. This rule allows policyholders to review their coverage when they may not otherwise face denial from a plan due to pre-existing health conditions.
How Does the Illinois Birthday Rule Work?
Let’s say a beneficiary currently has Medigap Plan F with Mutual of Omaha Medicare Supplement and their birthday was January 1. In this case, they would be eligible to enroll in Plan G with Mutual of Omaha. Their birthday rule window would last until February 14.
Outside of this timeframe, the application would require underwriting health questions unless the individual qualifies for guaranteed issue rights. Thus, they could face denial due because of their health history.
At this time, beneficiaries may not make the change from a Medicare Advantage plan to Medigap. Again, this rule only applies to those who already have Medigap.
How Do I Find Medicare Supplement Plans in Illinois?
When making changes to your Medicare coverage, it is very important to speak with a licensed agent who will help you understand all your available options.
We work with all the highest-rated carriers and will provide all our clients with an unbiased opinion regarding the coverage that best fits their individual needs. The best part is our services to you are always 100% free and no obligation.
To receive information about all plans available in your area or to inquire about a specific policy, call the number above or fill out our online rate comparison form.
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Sources:
MedicareFAQ is dedicated to providing you with authentic and trustworthy Medicare information. We have strict sourcing guidelines and work diligently to serve our readers with accurate and up-to-date content.
- Medicare Supplement Premium, IDOA. Accessed October 2022.
https://www.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/aging/ship/documents/chicagomedsupweb.pdf
