Trial Right From Medicare Advantage
The trial right is a federal escape hatch: try a Medicare Advantage plan at 65, dislike it, and return to Medigap guaranteed-issue within 12 months — a right most 65-year-olds never learn they have.
| Rule | MA Trial Right |
|---|---|
| Who qualifies | First time joining MA at 65+ |
| Window | Within 12 months of joining MA |
| Plan access | Any Medigap plan the carrier sells (A, B, D, G, K, L, N) |
| Underwriting | None — guaranteed issue |
| Partner right | Same right if spouse keeps employer coverage |
Running the trial deliberately
Some advisors use MA’s low premiums as a 12-month audition, then return to Medigap with the trial right if utilization disappoints. The return path is only guaranteed once — document your MA start date and read the exit mechanics with the GI rights file before the clock runs out.
The trap inside the trap
A health event during the trial year does not block the GI return — that is the point — but missing the 12-month deadline re-subjects you to full underwriting. Calendar the deadline the day you join MA, and note that a SECOND MA enrollment later has no trial right.
FAQ
Does the trial right apply to my second MA plan?
No — the federal trial right covers the first MA enrollment after 65.
Can I pick Plan G under the trial right?
Yes — any plan the carrier sells in your state, G included.
Related reading: All windows · GI rights · Plan G