how to transfer social security and medicare to new state

If you have Original Medicare and you move to another state, your policy generally follows you. To switch, you don't have to do much more than notify Social Security of your new address. However, if you have Medicare Advantage or a Part D drug plan, you may have to choose a new plan during a special enrollment period (SEP).

Full Answer

Can I transfer my Medicare plan from state to state?

The steps you need to take when transferring Medicare from state to state depends on the type of plan you have. In addition to alerting Medicare of your new address, you may also need to notify your carrier if you have a Medicare Supplement plan, a Medicare Advantage plan, and a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

Will my Social Security benefits change if I move States?

No matter where in the United States you live, your Social Security retirement, disability, family or survivor benefits do not change. (Along with the 50 states, that includes the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands.) But not all states treat benefits the same way.

How do I transfer my health insurance to a new state?

To get coverage in your new state, you’ll need to start a new Marketplace application or apply through your new state’s website (if your new state runs its own Marketplace). Get screen-by-screen uploading directions, with pictures (PDF), or follow these steps.

How to transfer SSI disability benefits to another state?

How to Transfer SSI Disability Benefits to Another State 1 SSI Benefit Amounts. Monthly SSI benefit amounts are determined by a number of factors, including any supplemental benefits your state provides and who pays for your food and shelter. 2 State Supplements. ... 3 Living Arrangements. ... 4 Changing Your Address. ...

Will I lose my Medicare if I move to another state?

Medicare and Supplemental Coverage Eligibility If You Move Out of California. If you are enrolled in Original Medicare and you move out of California (or to a different service area within the state), your Medicare benefits will not change.

Do I need to notify Medicare if I move?

How to Transfer Medicare Coverage to Another State or County. If you have Original Medicare — Medicare Part A and Part B — you should notify the Social Security Administration and Medicare before you move. It's important to update your address and other information so you don't miss or delay benefits.

Does Medicare follow from state to state?

Because it's a federal program, Medicare provides services in every part of the country. It doesn't matter which state you live in — your basic Medicare coverage will stay the same.

How long do I have to change my Medicare plan after I move?

2 full monthsIf you tell your plan before you move, your chance to switch plans begins the month before the month you move and continues for 2 full months after you move. If you tell your plan after you move, your chance to switch plans begins the month you tell your plan, plus 2 more full months.

How do I change my Medicare if I move?

How to switchTo switch to a new Medicare Advantage Plan, simply join the plan you choose during one of the enrollment periods. You'll be disenrolled automatically from your old plan when your new plan's coverage begins.To switch to Original Medicare, contact your current plan, or call us at 1-800-MEDICARE.

How does moving affect my Medicare?

If you move to a new city that is outside of your plan's network, you will lose your Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. In this case, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you either have to enroll in a new plan or opt to return to Original Medicare and also enroll in a Part D plan.

Does changing Social Security address change Medicare address?

In order to change your address with Medicare, you will need to fill out a Medicare Change of Address Form. The fastest way to do a Medicare address change is online. Your Medicare enrollment information, including address, is generally handled by the Social Security Administration.

Does address change affect Medicare?

If you've recently moved or the address on your Medicare card is incorrect for any reason, then you need to notify the Social Security Administration (SSA) and request a change to prevent any potential service interruptions, billing issues, or complications.

Are Medicare Advantage plans good in all states?

Medicare Advantage plans must cover these situations anywhere in the United States. The plans can't charge additional costs for these services.

Is Medicare different in each state?

Medicare by State. Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) is a federal program so your coverage, costs and benefits will not be different from state to state. Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D and Medigap plans are available through private insurers.

Can you lose Medicare benefits?

In most cases, you won't lose your Medicare eligibility. But if you move out of the country, or if you qualify for Medicare by disability or health problem, you could lose your Medicare eligibility.

What qualifies as a life changing event for Medicare?

A change in your situation — like getting married, having a baby, or losing health coverage — that can make you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period, allowing you to enroll in health insurance outside the yearly Open Enrollment Period.

Bcbs Credentialing And Contracting

Each state has a Blue Cross Blue Shield association and your contract does not travel with you if you relocate. With some exceptions in state border areas, you will need to undergo credentialing with your new state BCBS association and obtain a participating provider agreement in the new state.

Tips For Medicare Advantage And Moving To Another State

Advantage plans have doctor networks these networks may vary from county to county. Since policies vary by county, moving will likely result in a necessary plan change.

Get Answers To Your Medicare Questions

If you want more information about where you can use your Medicare plan and how to ensure you have the coverage you need when moving or traveling to another state, speak with a licensed insurance agent who can help answer your questions.

Understanding Moving To Another State With Medigap

Since Medicare is a federal program, coverage is the same across the United States. You wont qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you have Original Medicare and a Medigap plan because these plans operate in all states the same way.

Will I Have To Reapply For Ssdi Or Ssi

Both SSDI and SSI are federal disability benefit programs. Typically, that means you wont need to reapply for SSDI or SSI benefits when you move to another state. However, if youre planning a move, you should immediately notify your local Social Security Office of an address change. Typically this can be done online.

How To Use Medicare Advantage In Another State

Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, is another type of private Medicare insurance. Medicare Advantage plans cover everything covered by Medicare Part A and Part B, while most Medicare Advantage plans also offer prescription drug coverage .

You Move To A New Area And Your Plan Is Still Available But There Are New Options Too

If youre moving to a new area that offers plans you couldnt get before, notify your plan provider of your move. Youll have the month before you move plus 2 months after you move to make a change.

How to change address on Medicare?

Since the Social Security Administration (SSA) handles enrollment in Original Medicare, go online and log onto your account to update your address. You can also do this by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your nearest SSA office. You'll generally get faster service if you make your address change online rather than over the phone or in person.

What happens if you don't enroll in Medicare during SEP?

If you fail to enroll in a new plan during your SEP, you will only have Original Medicare administered through the Social Security Administration.[6] XResearch source. A gap in Part C or Part D coverage may result in higher premiums or penalties when you decide to re-enroll.

What is SEP in Medicare?

When you move to a different state and have Medicare Part C or Part D, you are eligible for a special enrollment period (SEP) to choose a new plan that will cover you after your move. The length of time you have varies depending on when you notify your insurance provider that you're moving.

How long does a SEP last?

Your SEP begins a month before the date of your move, and continues for 2 months after you move. If you don't notify your insurance provider until after you move, you have the remainder of that month plus an additional 2 months. ...

What are the letters for a Medigap plan?

Identify the Medigap plan you have. Medigap plans are standardized across most states and categorized under the letters A through D, F, G, and K through N. As long as you want to stay with the same letter plan, you usually won't have to do anything when you move.[9] XResearch source.

Do you have to find a doctor after moving?

Fairly soon after you've moved, find a doctor near you who accepts Medicare so you don't have any gaps in your healthcare and treatment. If you require regular treatment for a chronic condition, you may want to find a doctor before you move.

Do you have to notify Social Security of your new address?

To switch, you don't have to do much more than notify Social Security of your new address. However, if you have Medicare Advantage or a Part D... If you have Original Medicare and you move to another state, your policy generally follows you. To switch, you don't have to do much more than notify Social Security of your new address.

How to notify Social Security of change of address?

In any case, you should notify Social Security of your change of address. Go to the “My Profile” tab on your online My Social Security account or call 800-772-1213. If you are receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a benefit for low-income people who are older, blind or disabled that is administered but not funded by ...

Is SSI available in Puerto Rico?

Most states supplement SSI payments, at varying levels. In addition, SSI is not available in Puerto Rico and some other U.S. territories. The Supreme Court agreed in March 2021 to hear cases challenging that exclusion.

Does Medicare Part C and D change when moving to another state?

Moving to another part of the country can affect your Medicare Part C and Part D coverage, as your current plan provider might not operate in your new home state. (Parts A and B, sometimes called “traditional” or “original” Medicare, offer the same coverage nationwide.)

How long before moving to Medicare Supplement Plan should I call?

What Do I Need to Know About Moving if I Have a Medicare Supplement Plan? About 30 days before you move, you should call your Medicare Supplement plan carrier to update your address and confirm whether or not you can keep your coverage with them.

What is a select plan for Medicare?

You have a Medicare SELECT plan. Medicare SELECT plans limit your network for inpatient treatment to hospitals in the plan’s area. If you’re in either of these scenarios, you’ll most likely need to shop for a new Medicare Supplement plan.

What happens if you don't switch your insurance?

If you don’t switch your coverage in a timely fashion, you may have to wait until the Annual Enrollment Period to pick up a new drug plan. When you’re doing your shopping, you may even find that there’s a plan that costs you less than your original plan.

Does Medicare send you information?

Medicare may send you information through the mail, so it’s important that they have your correct address. You can alert Medicare of your new address in 3 ways: In order to update your information, you’ll need to know the address you’re moving to, as well as the date that you’ll be moving.

Can moving to another state affect Medicare?

If you’re moving to another state, or even just down the road, your new address could affect your Medicare plan.

Does Medicare pass on address to other insurance?

In order to update your information, you’ll need to know the address you’re moving to, as well as the date that you’ll be moving. Medicare won’t pass this information on to your other insurance carriers, however. You’ll need to reach out proactively to each carrier if you have other forms of insurance.

How to contact Medicare if you moved to another state?

To find out how to connect with a local Medicare office once you’ve moved to a new state, call 800-MEDICARE or click here. It’s also important to change your address with the Social Security Administration, which manages Medicare. You can do this online or by calling 800-772-1213.

How to make sure Medicare isn't disrupted?

To make sure your Medicare coverage isn’t disrupted when you move, you can take the following steps if you have a Medicare Advantage plan: Contact your current plan before your move. Ask if they offer plans in the state or area you’re moving to.

How long do you have to notify your insurance company of a move?

You’ll have the month before you move plus 2 months after you move to make a change. If you wait to notify your plan until after you’ve moved, you’ll be able to make changes to your existing plan in the month you notify your plan plus an additional 2 months after.

Can you change your Medicare plan if you move out of state?

Changing plans. Takeaway. Medicare is a federal healthcare program, so moving from one state to another will not affect your basic benefits from original Medicare. Optional Medicare products, like Medicare Advantage plans, might change if you move out of state. If you have a plan from a private health insurance provider, ...

Can you change your Medicare benefits if you move?

The takeaway. If you move from one state to another and you have original Medicare , your benefits won’t change. However, you may need to find new healthcare providers who participate in Medicare. If you have a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D plan, you may need to find a new plan. This will depend on whether your plan is available in your new ...

Do you have to contact your health insurance company before moving?

If you have a plan from a private health insurance provider , contact the company before you move to prepare for any benefit changes. Moving is a lot of work, especially if you’re making a big move from one state to another. The good news is your original Medicare coverage will stay the same, no matter what state you live in.

Does Medicare end when you move?

Although your Medicare coverage won’t end or change when you move, you’ll often need to find new healthcare professionals who participate in Medicare. Doctors must accept Medicare’s payment terms and meet certain requirements to participate in the program.

Transferring SSI From State to State & Other Social Security Disability Benefits

If you inform the Social Security Administration of your new address early, there should be no disruption to your Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or other Social Security disability benefits. However, the amount of your monthly SSI payment could change, since it has both federal and state components.

Medicaid Eligibility and Waivers

While Medicaid eligibility is based on federal law, the eligibility standards, services, and support available through Medicaid waivers vary dramatically between states. These services include case management, residential services, employment services, and other non-residential services.

Health Care

Over the years, you have probably spent considerable time scouting for doctors, therapists, and other service providers to meet your loved one’s specific needs. Be prepared to start over.

Special Education Services

While the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires your new school district to provide services and supports comparable to those provided in the existing Individualized Education Program (IEP), you may have to renegotiate the IEP. Additionally, a 504 plan or other modified curriculum may also require renegotiation.

Decision-Making Supports and Guardianship

Decision-making support can vary from state to state. If your adult child has executed a power of attorney, health care proxy or a supported decision-making agreement, consult with a special needs attorney in the new state to confirm their validity.

SNAP (Food Stamps)

Check regulations in your new home state ahead of time, since there are differences in how this federal program is implemented locally. In some areas, there are significant asset limits for people with disabilities.

Social Service Agencies

Day care, in-home services, social programs, career assistance and other supports vary greatly from state to state. Do your research well in advance to understand what awaits you.

How to report a move to a new state

When you move to a new state, your coverage options will change. You may no longer be eligible for your current plan.

Move within the same state?

If you move within the same state, your coverage options and savings probably won’t change based only on your new address.

Does SSI increase or decrease?

Depending on the state you’re moving from and the state you’re moving to, your total SSI benefits might increase or decrease. For example, Arizona, Mississippi, West Virginia, North Dakota and the Northern Mariana Islands don’t offer a state supplement.

Can you change your SSDI if you move?

For the most part, your SSDI payments will not change when moving from state to state. That’s because they’re based on your work and income history. However, if you plan on moving in with a friend, significant other or family member in another state, your SSI benefits could be affected. Unlike SSDI, SSI is based on financial need.

Do I need to reapply for SSDI if I move to another state?

Both SSDI and SSI are federal disability benefit programs. Typically, that means you won’t need to reapply for SSDI or SSI benefits when you move to another state. However, if you’re planning a move, you should immediately notify your local Social Security Office of an address change. Typically this can be done online.

How much is SSI reduced if you move to another state?

Living Arrangements. If you are moving to a new state to live with someone, your SSI benefits can be reduced by up to 30 percent below the federal benefit amount. That makes it imperative to start the transfer process as soon as possible to avoid any budget-wrecking surprises.

Can I change my address on my Social Security?

Since where you live is so important for determining your SSI amount, SSI beneficiaries cannot simply change their address online. You must contact the Social Security Administration by phone at or visit a local office to make the switch. The process is the same for both options.

Can I transfer my SSI benefits to another state?

Supplemental Security Income is a federal program, so the interstate transfer of benefits is a fairly straightforward process. Although the state you live in isn't a determining factor for SSI eligibility, it can affect the amount you are awarded.