What is a Medicare Supplement Plan?
A Medicare Supplement Plan is an insurance product designed to supplement Original Medicare (Medicare Parts A and B). A Medicare Supplement Plan pays for cost sharing for Medicare Parts A and B, but not Medicare Part D. The Medicare Supplement Plan is purchased from private insurance carriers. To learn more, you can watch or download our presentation hosted by Associate Commissioner, Patricia Dorn.
What is the first step I should take when considering a Medicare Supplement policy?
Educate yourself on the difference between the lettered plans and choose the one that fits best for you based on benefits and cost. A simple chart describing the difference in benefits can be found in this document.
Next, find an approved carrier in Maryland
The listed plan options offered by an insurance carrier, except Plan G*, are for policies with an effective date for coverage on or after June 1, 2010. Plan G* is for policies with an effective date for coverage on or after January 1, 2020. Effective January 1, 2020, only applicants who are first eligible for Medicare before year 2020 may purchase Plans C, F and F. Please note, Plan F* and Plan G* are high deductible plans. Find a carrier with approved Medicare Supplement Policies in Maryland.
What are the rates?
The Maryland Insurance Administration publishes a rate guide every six months. The rate guide is updated each January and July. Individuals should contact the insurance carrier to confirm the rates in effect when they are applying.
What is the Medicare Birthday Rule?
Starting on July 1, 2023, Medicare Supplement policyholders with policies issued in Maryland will be granted a once-yearly Open Enrollment Period that includes the policyholder’s birthday and the 30-day period following the policyholder’s birthday. You can learn more about the "Birthday Rule" by reading this consumer advisory or watch this video.
Still have questions?
If you want to talk to someone one-on-one about your Medicare options, SHIP is a free program to help those on Medicare with personalized Medicare counseling, education and access to financial assistance resources. Each of the Maryland counties and Baltimore City have access to a SHIP and you can find your local office here.
Additional Resources
To learn more about our consumer education and advocacy initiatives, read our Consumer Publications. These materials provide information about most types of insurance from auto, homeowners, health and life policies to annuities, title insurance and coverage for boats.
If your community group, HOA or organization is interested in a virtual or in-person presentation or speaker, contact Associate Commissioner Patricia Dorn at patricia.[email protected] or click here.
