Possible move to another state
Hi Terry: I try to never miss you on my favorite channel, WGN – your advice is always timely and informative.
Here’s my question: I am looking to relocate from Illinois to Wisconsin in the near future. I am currently receiving Social Security under my own earnings and have Original Medicare and BC/BS supplement.
I had an online chat with Medicare.gov on July 12th: Here is what they said:
“Once you have moved to another state, you will then need to visit that Social Security Office to switch your Medicare coverage, since coverage options does vary in different states. You can change only your address online by logging in to your Social Security.gov account.” If this is correct, how do I locate my local SS office? I live on the North side of Chicago.
When I first applied for SS, I went in person to my local office years ago; now, as you know, everyone can file online.
Also, I would like to keep my doctors in Illinois, who do accept Medicare (except for my dentist, but Medicare doesn’t cover dental anyway). When I asked Medicare on the same chat referenced above, here is what they said:
“I can provide you with general coverage guidelines, but this does not guarantee that Medicare will pay for an item or service. Medicare payment is based on medical necessity, Medicare requirements, and whether your provider or supplier is enrolled in Medicare.”
My question is really twofold: Do I have to visit my local SS office in person, and can I keep my Illinois doctors?
Thanks, Terry!
Best, and see you on the tube!! bp
Terry Says
You can definitely keep your Illinois doctors, since Medicare covers physicians anywhere in the US who accept Medicare.
You can change your mailing address for Social Security online. No big deal on that. Create an account at mySocialSecurity.gov.
It’s your Medicare supplement that might prove an issue. You need to contact them and explain that you are moving out of state. You have the right to keep the same COVERAGE — so don’t give up your current plan. But it might cost a bit more– or maybe less –if you move out of state.
