Changing Your Address with Medicare
How to Update Your Address with Medicare: A Step-by-Step Guide
If your permanent address changes, it’s crucial to update Medicare with your new information. Since Medicare collaborates with the Social Security Administration (SSA) to maintain your records, updating your address involves making changes to your SSA account.
Keeping your personal details, such as your contact information, current is important to ensure Medicare can reach you when needed. Additionally, if you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C), Part D, or Medigap plan, relocating to a different county or state could impact your coverage.
Steps to Change Your Address with Medicare
To update your address, follow these simple steps:
- Log In to Your SSA Account: Visit the SSA website and log into your account. Once logged in, navigate to the “My Profile” tab and select “Update Contact Information.”
- Create an SSA Account: If you do not have an SSA account, you can create one at Login.gov.
- Update by Phone: If you prefer, you can call the SSA at 800-772-1213 (TTY: 800-325-0778) to speak with a representative who will assist you in updating your address.
- In-Person Assistance: If you prefer to update your address in person, visit your local Social Security office for help.
Should you encounter any issues while updating your address online, the SSA phone number provided is available for assistance.
How to Update Other Personal Information with Medicare
If you need to update other personal details (such as your name or bank account information), you can do so directly through your Medicare account. If you don’t have an account, you can easily create one using your Medicare number and coverage start date, both of which are available on your Medicare card.
Why Updating Your Address Matters for Medicare
- Original Medicare (Parts A and B): If you have Original Medicare, moving to a different county or state will not impact your coverage. With Original Medicare, you have nationwide coverage and can see any doctor who accepts Medicare.
- Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Part D: These plans, offered by private insurers, are typically regional. This means that if you move to a new county or state, your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan may no longer cover you.
Before you move, contact your insurer to understand how your relocation may affect your plan. If you leave your state, your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan might cease to cover you.
If you are moving to a new state, notifying your insurer will trigger a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This SEP lasts a minimum of 2 months, during which you can switch to a new plan that covers your new location. If you are unable to find a suitable Medicare Advantage plan in your new area, you may opt for Original Medicare.
The SEP starts when you notify your insurer about your move. If you inform your insurer before your move, you will have an additional month to make any necessary changes.
Updating your address with Medicare is a simple yet essential task to ensure you continue to receive important information and maintain uninterrupted coverage. Stay on top of your personal information to avoid complications with your Medicare plans.
Please call us before you move and let us assist with your new plan or refer you to someone who can.
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