Medicare Supplements for Individuals Under Age 65

August 22, 2007 · Medicare Supplements

Get a Quote »Currently there are only a few states allowing insurance companies to offer Medicare Supplements to those under the age of 65.   Due to legislative changes – California, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee are six such states.

Just like those  reaching age 65,  those who qualify for Medicare due to disability  will have an open enrollment window available to them where most supplemental plans can be purchased without medical underwriting.   It is wise to purchase a plan during this period.

Likewise if you are losing credible coverage (like a group health insurance plan), then you may also qualify for a supplement without underwriting. In very few states, Tennessee for example, losing Medicaid (TennCare) is also a qualifying event.

Medicare Disability Insurance Offerings

So long as you are in your open enrollment window (three months before or after your acceptance into Medicare Part A and B) then you can purchase most supplemental policies.  

Rates will vary between insurance companies so it is wise to speak with an independent agent.   In most states, Medigap insurance providers are allowed to charge more than for someone who is age 65.   Two states where this is not the case are Pennsylvania and Tennessee.

In states like Missouri and California, those on Medicare disability and under age 65 can switch to like or lesser  coverage on their anniversary  or birthday respectively.   This does not  mean that the insurance can be upgraded, just that  similar or lesser coverage can be obtained without underwriting.

Medicare Supplement Underwriting

If you miss your open enrollment window, then you will need to go through underwriting with most companies. This can be very difficult if there are ongoing health concerns.

Thus, it is wise to explore all of your options as soon as you have been accepted into Medicare due to disability or if you are involuntarily losing credible (group) coverage from an employer or elsewhere.

Contact Us For Quotes

We are an independent Medicare supplement insurance provider working in several states including California, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and elsewhere.We can help you apply for Medigap insurance as well as Part D prescription coverage direct and at no additional cost.

Contact Us today to view quotes and/or to discuss your options.

Leave a Reply