Starting from the first month that you have Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and you are 65 or older, you have six months to buy a supplemental (Medigap) policy.
Even if you have health problems, you can buy a Medigap policy during this first six months at the same price as people with good health. Insurance companies must agree to sell you any Medigap policy they offer and they can't put in a waiting period for coverage to begin.
Waiting until you have health problems is a bad idea because after your first six months, insurance companies don't have to sell you a policy if you don't meet their medical underwriting requirements. If they do sell you a policy, it may also be more expensive.
Allyson Good curates senior living, health, and family content. She is formerly the Managing Editor of Active Life, a print newspaper published in 2016-2017 for seniors, choosing practical articles on health, money, safety, and everyday living for older readers. She is also an avid gardener and offers up Garden Hints and Tips on a regular basis.
