Moving with Medicare
Original Medicare moves with you. Private plans may not.
Medicare is national, but many parts of it are local. What you need to do when you move depends on how you get your coverage.
Reviewed by Joshua H. Pannell, Licensed Insurance Agent (SC license #400481) ·
Original Medicare
Parts A and B work with any provider in the US that accepts Medicare, so they come with you. Update your address with Social Security (or the Railroad Retirement Board).
Medicare Advantage and Part D
These plans have service areas. If you move out of yours, you get a Special Enrollment Period to join a new plan, starting the month before you move and lasting 2 months after. If you don't choose one, you may be returned to Original Medicare and could be without drug coverage. If you move within the area but new plans are available, you also get a chance to switch.
Medigap
Your Medigap policy generally stays in force when you move, but your premium may change to reflect your new location. If you have a Medicare SELECT policy and move out of its area, you have a guaranteed issue right to buy another policy. And if you leave a Medicare Advantage plan because you moved out of its area, you may have a guaranteed right to buy Medigap.
State Medigap rules, such as birthday rules, follow your new state.
Help paying
Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs are state programs. If you have them, you'll need to reapply in your new state.
Common questions
Tell Social Security (or the RRB), and your Medicare Advantage, Part D and Medigap plans.
Original Medicare works in both states. Many Medicare Advantage plans cover only emergencies and urgent care outside their area; some offer visitor programs. Check before you choose.
Want help comparing your options?
Currently we represent 41 organizations which offer 397 products in your area. You can always contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for help with plan choices.
Sources
- Special Enrollment Periods, Medicare.gov. Checked September 29, 2026.
- Choosing a Medigap Policy (March 2026), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Checked September 29, 2026.
General information about the federal Medicare program, not advice about your situation. Figures are for 2026 unless stated and change every year; last reviewed September 29, 2026. Quote My Policy is a private company. Not connected with or endorsed by the United States government or the federal Medicare program.
Currently we represent 41 organizations which offer 397 products in your area. You can always contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for help with plan choices.