How to Transfer Medicare to Another State

Medicare is a federally run health insurance program primarily for people aged 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with certain disabilities or medical conditions. While its core structure is national, Medicare coverage, especially through Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans, can be affected by where you live.

If you're planning a move across state lines, it's important to understand how that impacts your Medicare benefits. The question many beneficiaries face is: how do you transfer Medicare to another state?

This guide will walk you through the critical steps: updating your address with the Social Security Administration (SSA), understanding how your specific Medicare plan may be impacted, exploring new plan options, and making sure you have access to healthcare in your new location.

Step 1: Update Your Address with the Social Security Administration (SSA)

The first and most important step in transferring Medicare is updating your address with the Social Security Administration. Because Medicare enrollment is managed through SSA, your address on file directly affects your plan eligibility, mail delivery, and access to key notices and benefits.

You can update your address in one of three ways:

• Online: Visit ssa.gov and log into your account.

• By phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

• In person: Visit your nearest Social Security office.

This change affects not only your Medicare information but also your Social Security correspondence, including any benefit payments or annual notices.

Even if you're staying on Original Medicare and not changing plans, you still need to report your new address promptly. Failing to do so can result in delayed communications or missed opportunities to enroll in new plans if needed. Keeping your contact details current ensures seamless care during your move.

Step 2: Review the Type of Medicare Coverage You Have

Original Medicare (Parts A and B)

Original Medicare is administered by the federal government and provides coverage throughout the United States. This means that your benefits under Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) stay consistent no matter where you move.

You won’t need to switch plans if you're enrolled in Original Medicare. However, you may need to find new doctors, hospitals, or specialists in your new area who accept Medicare. It’s a good idea to use Medicare’s Care Compare tool to research local providers before you move.

This is typically the least disruptive path when moving, though it doesn’t include drug coverage or extra benefits that some other Medicare plans offer.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Part D Plans

Medicare Advantage (Part C) and standalone Part D (prescription drug) plans are run by private insurers and are tied to specific geographic service areas, usually by county or ZIP code. That means a move, even within the same state, can make you ineligible to stay on your current plan.

When you change your address and notify your provider or SSA, you’ll be granted a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). This allows you to:

• Enroll in a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan available in your new area.

• Switch back to Original Medicare, with or without a Medigap plan.

• Avoid penalties or gaps in coverage if action is taken promptly.

To determine whether your current plan is available in your new location, contact your insurance provider or use the Medicare Plan Finder. Be proactive, don't wait until after you've moved to initiate this process.

If you're exploring how to transfer Medicare to another state, understanding this step is essential. Advantage and Part D plans are not portable across regions, and timely plan selection is key to maintaining uninterrupted care.

Step 3: Choose and Enroll in a New Plan

If your move disqualifies you from your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, you’ll need to select a new plan based on what’s available in your new ZIP code. The Medicare Plan Finder tool is a helpful resource for comparing available plans.

Here are the most important factors to evaluate:

• Provider network: Does the plan include your preferred doctors or hospital systems?

• Drug coverage: Check the formulary to ensure your medications are covered.

• Costs: Compare premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums.

For example, your old Part D plan may have covered your prescriptions in Florida, but not in Oregon. Failing to check could mean higher costs or lack of access.

If local Advantage options are limited, consider switching to Original Medicare plus a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan. These help cover costs like coinsurance and deductibles and can offer more flexibility.

Not sure what’s right for you? Contact your state’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free, unbiased help choosing a new plan.

Additional Considerations When You Move

Medigap (Medicare Supplement Plans)

Medigap plans are standardized but regulated by individual states. This means that pricing, availability, and enrollment rules can differ depending on where you move.

If you’re moving from a state like New York, which offers continuous open enrollment, to a state like Texas, where underwriting may be required, you could face limitations or higher premiums.

Some states offer guaranteed issue rights for Medigap plans after a move, but not all do. Applying early can help you avoid the risk of being denied coverage or charged more based on health conditions.

Medicaid and Dual Eligibility

If you’re dual eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, it’s important to know that Medicaid benefits do not transfer across states. You’ll need to reapply in your new state of residence.

Eligibility requirements and covered services vary by state. Once you establish residency, visit Medicaid.gov  to access your state’s Medicaid application and requirements.

To prevent a gap in Medicaid support, start the reapplication process as early as possible, ideally before your move.

Common Questions About Transferring Medicare

How long do I have to update my Medicare address?

You should update your address as soon as you know your new residence. Waiting too long can delay coverage changes or important mail.

Can I keep the same Medicare Advantage plan when I move?

Only if your new location is still within the plan’s service area. Most moves will require you to switch plans.

Will my Medicare coverage lapse during the move?

As long as you take action during your Special Enrollment Period, you should not experience any lapse in coverage.

Do I need new Medicare cards?

Original Medicare cards generally stay the same. If you enroll in a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan, you will receive new plan ID cards.

Will my costs change in my new state?

Yes. Medicare Advantage, Part D, and Medigap plans can vary in price and benefits by location, so your costs may increase or decrease after a move.

Can I change doctors right away?

Yes, but confirm that your new providers accept Medicare or are in-network with your new Advantage plan.

Key Takeaways

• Always report your address change to SSA immediately.

• Check whether your current Medicare Advantage or Part D plan works in your new ZIP code.

• Use your Special Enrollment Period to switch plans without penalty.

• Original Medicare moves with you—but you’ll need to find new providers in your area.

• Reapply for Medicaid if you're dual eligible and changing states.

• Review your plan options early to avoid coverage interruptions or unexpected costs.

Now that you know how to transfer Medicare to another state, you can make the move with confidence and ensure your healthcare coverage continues without disruption.

Unified Health is here to help. If you need expert guidance navigating Medicare changes, contact us today for personalized support.

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