Key Takeaways
- Rhode Island follows federal Medicare Supplement standards
- Six-month open enrollment period at age 65 with Part B
- Guaranteed issue rights apply in specific situations
- Standardized plans A through N available
- Pre-existing condition waiting periods limited during open enrollment
Last updated: January 2026
Rhode Island Medicare Supplement Regulations
Rhode Island follows federal Medicare Supplement (Medigap) standards with consumer protections for Medicare beneficiaries.
Open Enrollment Period
Rhode Island provides a 6-month open enrollment period for Medicare Supplement:
When It Begins
The 6-month period starts:
- First day of the month you are 65 or older AND
- Enrolled in Medicare Part B
Protections During Open Enrollment
- Guaranteed issue - Must be accepted regardless of health
- No pre-existing condition exclusions
- Standard rates - Cannot be charged more for health conditions
- Any plan available - Can choose any Medigap plan A through N
Guaranteed Issue Rights
Beyond open enrollment, Rhode Island provides guaranteed issue rights in specific situations:
Triggering Events
| Event | Time to Enroll |
|---|---|
| Losing employer coverage | 63 days |
| Leaving Medicare Advantage | 63 days |
| Medicare Advantage plan leaves area | 63 days |
| Medigap insurer becomes insolvent | 63 days |
Standardized Plans
Rhode Island requires Medigap plans to be standardized:
| Plan | Coverage Level |
|---|---|
| Plan A | Basic benefits only |
| Plan B | Basic + Part A deductible |
| Plan D | Comprehensive (no Part B excess) |
| Plan G | Most popular - comprehensive |
| Plan K | 50% cost sharing with out-of-pocket max |
| Plan L | 75% cost sharing with out-of-pocket max |
| Plan M | 50% Part A deductible |
| Plan N | Cost sharing with copays |
Note: Plans C and F are only available to those eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
Test Your Knowledge
How long is the Medicare Supplement open enrollment period in Rhode Island?
A
B
C
D