Know Your Window
Your enrollment window opens 30 days before your birthday and stays open for 30-60 days after.
(varies by state)
WHAT IS THE
MEDICARE MEDIGAP BIRTHDAY RULE?
Switch Your Medigap Plan
Without Medical Exams
The Medicare Medigap Birthday Rule lets you switch to a better plan annually – with no health questions asked. We’re here to help you save money and get the coverage you deserve.
HOW IT WORKS
Use the Birthday Rule to Your Advantage
Every year during your personal enrollment window, you have the opportunity to switch Medigap plans without answering health questions.
Compare Plans
Switch to a plan with equal or fewer benefits. You can often find better rates or enhanced coverage options.
Home Insurance
No medical underwriting means no denial for pre-existing conditions. Your new coverage starts the following month.
STATES WITH THE BIRTHDAY RULE
Available in 5 States- More Coming
The Birthday Rule is state legislation. Currently, these states offer this valuable protection for Medicare beneficiaries.
California
60 days starting first day of birth month
Active
Oregon
60 days surrounding your birthday
Active
Idaho
63 days surrounding your birhtday
Active
Illinois
45 days surrounding your birthday
Active
Delaware
New for 2026
New
WHY USE THE BIRTHDAY RULE?
Your Annual Chance to Save Money & Get Better Coverage
No Medical Underwriting
Insurers cannot deny coverage or charge higher premiums for pre-existing conditions during your enrollment window.
Save on Premiums
Shop around annually to find better rates. Many beneficiaries can save hundreds per year by switching carriers.
Equal or Lesser Benefits
witch to a plan with the same or fewer benefits — from Plan F to Plan G, for example — without restrictions.
Switch Carries Freely
Don't like your current insurer? Use the Birthday Rule to move
to a company with better service or prices.
MEDIGAP PLAN TYPES
Understanding Your Medigap Options
When using the Birthday Rule, you can switch to a plan with equal or lesser benefits. Here’s an overview of common plans.
PLAN F
Covers all Medicare deductibles, copays, and coinsurance
✓ $0 at doctor
✓ $0 at hospital
✓ Foreign travel emergency
PLAN G
Same as Plan F, except Medicare Part B deductible
✓ $0 at doctor
✓ $0 at hospital
✓ Foreign travel emergency
PLAN N
Lower premiums with small copays
✓ $0 at specialist
✓ $20 copay for office visits
✓ Part B excess charges covered
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
When using the Birthday Rule, you can switch to a plan with equal or lesser benefits. Here’s an overview of common plans.
When is my birthday window?
Your window typically opens 30 days before your birthday and remains open for 30-60 days after, depending on your state. For example, California residents have 60 days starting the first day of their birth month.
Can I switch from Plan F to Plan G using the birthday rule?
Yes! Plan G has fewer benefits than Plan F (it doesn't cover the Part B deductible), so it's considered a "lesser benefit" plan. You can switch from Plan F to Plan G during your Birthday Rule window without medical underwriting.
Will switching plans reset my deductible?
Yes, when you switch to a new insurance carrier, your annual deductible will typically reset. This is an important factor to consider when deciding whether to switch — make sure the potential premium savings outweigh the deductible reset.
What if I miss my enrollment window?
If you miss your Birthday Rule window, you may still be able to switch plans, but the insurance company can require medical underwriting and may deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health history.