Can My Spouse and I Stay on our Plans If We Move to Another State or Country?

Medicare coverage is individual, not family-based. You and your spouse can and may

have different plans. A move can affect coverage for both of you, especially if you have

a Medicare Advantage plan. Before relocating, check how the change will affect your

(and your spouse’s) options.

Q: I’m moving. Can I stay on my Medicare plan?

A: It depends on what kind of plan you have.

If you have Original Medicare (Parts A & B) with or without a Medigap Plan: No

problem. It travels with you across the U.S.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan: These are regional. If you move out of your

plan’s service area, you’ll need to choose a new one. A move would qualify you for an

SEP (Special Election Period). If you move but remain in the coverage area, most likely

you can stay on your current plan. Check with your coverage provider.

If you move internationally: Medicare generally doesn’t cover care outside the U.S.

borders. You would need separate international insurance or return stateside for care.

Bottom line: Plan ahead. Before relocating, check how the change will affect your (and

your spouse’s) options.