Supplement (Medigap) Rule Changes for 2026 in Minnesota

Navigating Medicare can be a bit of a maze, especially with all the changes happening lately. Because rules and guidelines are so fluid, it's important to stay informed about legislative developments that could impact your coverage options. In Minnesota, specifically, recent developments may open doors for individuals with pre-existing conditions to enroll in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, even if they were previously denied coverage. 

So, if you’re between the ages of 65 and 70, you will want to pay attention to how these changes could influence your Medicare coverage decisions starting in 2026. In this article, we'll explore what this could mean for you and how you can prepare for the upcoming enrollment opportunities without missing out on crucial details and deadlines.

Supplement (Medigap) Rule Modifications for 2026 in Minnesota

If you've ever been told you couldn’t qualify for a Medicare Supplement plan in Minnesota due to a pre-existing condition, that may be changing soon. A new Minnesota law originally set to take effect in August 2025 has been delayed by one year and is now expected to be implemented in August 2026.

This upcoming change could impact the type of Medicare coverage that’s best for you, especially if you’ve previously been limited in your options.

You might also be interested in: Medicare Advantage vs Medicare Supplements: Which One Is Right For Me?

New Medigap Enrollment Opportunity

Starting in AEP 2026 (the Annual Enrollment Period in fall 2026), Minnesotans between the ages of 65 and 70 may have a new chance to enroll in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, even if they’ve had pre-existing conditions.

Here’s what makes this different:

• One-time enrollment window: This enrollment opportunity can only be used once
• Higher premiums: Individuals enrolling through this new window may pay more than those who enrolled during their original Open Enrollment or Guaranteed Issue period
• No waiting periods: The Minnesota law prohibits insurers from applying waiting periods for pre-existing conditions during this special enrollment opportunity

Why This Matters for Your Medicare Planning

This rule change gives new options to those who were previously denied Medigap coverage, but the specifics are still being determined, and there are important details to consider before deciding on a plan. Fortunately, the law's delayed implementation means there is time to plan ahead, especially if you are turning 65 soon or re-evaluating your current coverage. 

Now is a great time to have a conversation with one of our Minnesota-local Medicare agents for unbiased advice and recommendations on whether this enrollment opportunity is something you should act on. 

How Minnesota’s Medigap Rule Stands Out

While some other states already have broader Medigap guidelines in place, this change is still a big deal for Minnesota. If you were previously told you couldn’t get a Medicare Supplement because of a pre-existing condition, this new enrollment window could give you another shot at the coverage you wanted.

This is a unique opportunity that doesn't come around often, so it’s worth checking in to see if it might be a good fit for your situation.

Find Out What You Need to Know About Medicare Supplements in Minnesota

Talk to a Medicare Professional You Can Trust

We know changes like this can be confusing, and even the insurance carriers are still working through the details. If you have questions about what this could all mean for your Medicare coverage decisions for 2026, or if you’re unsure about whether to choose a Medicare Advantage plan or a Supplement, we’re here to help.

Reach out to our team of licensed Medicare agents for honest, unbiased guidance and recommendations.

Contact Us Today

Choosing a Medicare plan can be difficult. Twin City Underwriters helps Medicare recipients in Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Florida find the Medicare plan that meets their unique needs. Schedule a one-on-one meeting with one of our Medicare insurance brokers to get your questions answered!

Do you need help with Medicare, insurance, and health plans? Explore your options with Allina Health Aetna, BlueCross BlueShield of Minnesota, Medica, UCare, United HealthCare and more. We work with you to find the best plan for your needs and budget. Contact us today to get started.