When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage (MAPD) plan, your coverage is tied to a specific service area. So, what happens when you move? You may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that allows you to switch plans or return to Original Medicare, without waiting for the Annual Enrollment Period or facing penalties.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re moving and your current Medicare Advantage plan won’t go with you.
Why Moving Triggers a Special Enrollment Period
Medicare Advantage plans are region-specific, meaning the benefits, provider networks, and even availability are based on your residential ZIP code. If you move to a new address—whether it’s across the state or across the country—you could be outside your current plan’s service area, making you ineligible to remain enrolled in that plan.
Thankfully, Medicare gives you a Special Enrollment Period to make changes so you’re not left without coverage.
Who Qualifies for This SEP?
You may be eligible for this SEP if:
- You move to a new area where your current plan isn’t offered
- You move within your current plan’s area, but new plans are available that you weren’t previously eligible for
- You move out of or into a skilled nursing facility or long-term care hospital
- You return to the U.S. after living abroad
When Does This SEP Start and End?
Your timeline to act depends on when you notify your plan about the move:
| Notification Timing | SEP Window |
| You notify before you move | SEP begins the month before your move and lasts for 2 months after the move |
| You notify after the move | SEP begins the month you notify Medicare and lasts for 2 more months |
Pro Tip: Notify your plan as soon as you know you’re moving to avoid any lapse in coverage.
What You Can Do During This SEP
During this Special Enrollment Period, you can:
- Switch to a new Medicare Advantage plan available in your new area
- Return to Original Medicare and enroll in a Part D prescription drug plan
- Add a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, if you return to Original Medicare (some may qualify for guaranteed issue rights)
- Explore different coverage options that better match the providers and facilities near your new home
Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to notify your plan—you could miss your SEP
- Assuming your plan will transfer—most don’t
- Not reviewing plan networks in your new area—you may need to find new doctors or pharmacies
- Missing drug coverage—if you drop Medicare Advantage, don’t forget to add Part D
What to Do Next
- Contact your Medicare Advantage plan to report your change of address
- Call us to compare new plans available in your area
- Choose your new coverage within the SEP window
- Confirm your enrollment and effective start date
Need Help Reviewing Your Options?
Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we’re here to help ensure your Medicare coverage doesn’t miss a beat. Our licensed advisors can walk you through your SEP, compare plans in your new area, and get you set up without the stress.
Call us at 800-864-8890 or book a free virtual appointment online. Let’s make sure your health coverage moves with you.