Medicare Supplement Free Look Period Explained

When it comes to health coverage in retirement, it’s important to make informed decisions—especially if you're switching Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies. The Medicare Supplement Free Look Period gives beneficiaries the opportunity to try a new Medigap policy without fully committing to it right away. This article explains how the free look period works, what you should know before switching, and how to avoid common mistakes.

What is the Medicare Supplement Free Look Period?

The Medicare Supplement Free Look Period is a 30-day window that allows you to try a new Medigap policy while keeping your old one temporarily. If you decide the new policy isn’t right for you, you can cancel it and continue with your original coverage—no questions asked and no penalties.

This consumer protection is designed to give you peace of mind when changing Medigap plans.

How the Free Look Period Works

Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Apply for a New Medigap Policy: You apply and get approved for a new Medigap policy from a different insurance company (or a different plan with the same company). Learn about popular Medicare Supplement plans.

2. Keep Your Old Policy Active: Don’t cancel your current Medigap plan yet. You need to pay premiums for both policies during the 30-day free look period.

3. Try the New Policy: Use the new policy and decide if it meets your needs.

4. Make a Final Decision:

   • If you're satisfied: Cancel your old policy.

   • If you're not satisfied: Cancel the new policy and keep your old one.

Important: You only get one free look period per new policy, and you must apply for the new plan—approval is not guaranteed unless you're in a guaranteed issue situation or open enrollment period.

Key Rules to Remember

• 30 Days Only: The free look period begins when your new policy starts—not when you apply or receive approval.

• Double Premiums: You are responsible for paying both policies during the overlap period. There is no reimbursement for unused time if you cancel one early.

• Don’t Cancel Too Soon: Wait until you’ve fully decided before canceling your original plan. Once canceled, it may be difficult or impossible to get it back.

Why Consider Using the Free Look Period?

• You want to compare costs or coverage between two Medigap policies. You can compare costs and coverage for Medigap Plan G vs Plan N.

• Your healthcare needs have changed, and you’re considering a different plan.

• You’re exploring another insurer with potentially better customer service or lower premiums.

The free look period offers flexibility and peace of mind during this transition.

When You Might Not Qualify Automatically

Unless you're in your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period or meet Guaranteed Issue Rights, the new insurance company can require medical underwriting before approving the application. If denied, you cannot use the free look period with that policy.

Tips for a Smooth Free Look Transition

• Work with a licensed agent to coordinate the start dates of both policies.

• Mark your calendar to keep track of your 30-day window.

• Review both policies side-by-side, paying attention to:

  • Monthly premium

  • Out-of-pocket costs

  • Provider networks (if any)

  • Customer support quality

Final Thoughts

The Medicare Supplement Free Look Period is a valuable tool that gives you flexibility when exploring better coverage options. Just make sure to time things right, understand the rules, and be prepared to pay both premiums for a short time. It’s a small price for the peace of mind that you’re making the best decision for your healthcare in retirement.