Retirement often comes with change, and one common idea retirees have is moving out of state. However, Medicare coverage might be impacted when you move, and learning how to maintain your healthcare can help.
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This guide breaks down Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans and provides the steps to maintain coverage when moving.
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Understand That Original Medicare Travels With You
Fortunately, if you have Original Medicare, the good news is that it will travel with you wherever you go in the U.S. Original Medicare (Part A, also known as hospital insurance, and Part B for medical insurance) is run by the federal government and can be used nationwide wherever Medicare is accepted.
This is great if you are downsizing, moving often or want to spend a lot of your budget on travel in retirement. Medicare is the most widely accepted plan. Around 93% of primary care physicians taking insurance in the U.S. will accept Medicare.
Your Original Medicare coverage will stay intact when you move. However, you need to update your address with the Social Security Administration so the billing and communication are sent to your new location. You will also need to see if a Part D plan in your new state matches your current plan (if you have drug coverage).
If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), moving to a new state could affect your coverage. Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage is managed by private regional insurers, meaning your current plan might not be available in your new state.
Therefore, check with your provider before relocating to see if a similar plan exists. If not, you'll have a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) to choose a new plan, which begins one month before your move and ends two months after, allowing time to switch without penalties.
Over 54% of Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans in 2024, so many retirees face this adjustment when moving. Consider factors like network availability, prescription drug coverage and costs in your new state, as plans vary by region. Some states offer broader networks, while others have more limited options. Review your new state's plans to ensure you find the right coverage for your needs.