Moving to Florida? Here's What You Need to Know About Medicare

Florida is one of the top retirement destinations in the country -- and for good reason. Warm weather, no state income tax, and a vibrant senior community make it an attractive place to spend your retirement years.

But if you are moving to Florida with Medicare coverage, there are important steps you need to take to make sure your healthcare does not skip a beat.

The answer depends on what type of Medicare coverage you have.

Original Medicare works anywhere in the country. Your coverage follows you to Florida with no changes needed. You can see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare -- nationwide.

Medigap plans also work nationwide. Since they are tied to Original Medicare, you can use your coverage at any Medicare-accepting provider in Florida. However, you may want to shop for a new Medigap plan in Florida -- rates vary by state and zip code, and you may find better pricing with a Florida-based carrier.

This is where moving gets complicated. Medicare Advantage plans are local -- they have specific service areas defined by county or zip code. If you move out of your plan's service area, you will likely lose your coverage.

When you move out of a Medicare Advantage plan's service area:

• You qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to switch plans
• You have 2 months after moving to enroll in a new plan
• You can switch to a Florida Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare and add a Medigap plan

1. Notify Medicare of your new address Update your address with Social Security (which administers Medicare enrollment) as soon as you move. You can do this online at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

2. Check if your current plan covers Florida If you have Medicare Advantage, contact your plan to find out if your new Florida address is within the service area. If not, you will need to switch plans.

3. Review your plan options in your new zip code Florida has one of the most competitive Medicare markets in the country. Your new zip code may have dozens of Medicare Advantage plans and multiple Medigap carriers to choose from. This is a great opportunity to find better coverage at a lower cost.

4. Verify your doctors are covered If you are keeping a Medicare Advantage plan, confirm your Florida doctors are in-network. If you are switching to a Medigap plan, any doctor who accepts Medicare will accept your coverage.

5. Update your Part D plan Drug plan formularies and pharmacy networks vary by region. Review your Part D plan to make sure your medications are still covered at your preferred Florida pharmacy.

Florida is home to some of the most competitive Medicare pricing in the country. Many Florida seniors are surprised to find:

• Medicare Advantage plans with $0 premiums and rich benefits
• Medigap Plan G rates that are competitive with other states
• A wide selection of Part D plans with low premiums

As an independent broker based in Daytona Beach, I specialize in helping seniors find the right Medicare coverage throughout Florida. Whether you are moving to Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando, Miami, or anywhere in between, I can compare every plan available in your new zip code.

Call me at (386) 871-3858 or schedule a free consultation at calendly.com/themedicaredude/75.