The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has withdrawn a memo issued during the previous administration that would have restricted how Medicare beneficiaries may enroll using a Special Election Period (SEP) when affected by a Government Entity-Declared Disaster or Other Emergency. Under the new direction, the process will not change and individuals will not be forced to enroll by calling Medicare directly.

This is great news for Medicare beneficiaries because it means consumers will still be able to work with Medicare agents to utilize a SEP. The disaster/emergency SEP is crucial for beneficiaries who missed their enrollment period due to a natural disaster or other emergency and want to obtain coverage for the first time or make plan changes. Medicare decisions can be very complicated and consumers rely on the guidance of experienced professionals to ensure they obtain proper coverage. This guidance is especially vital to people who may be dealing with losses due to disasters or emergencies.

“NAIFA urged CMS to ensure that agents have the support they need to best serve clients facing complicated decisions during trying times and that agents are not hindered by undue restrictions,” said NAIFA CEO Kevin Mayeux, CAE. “The reversal of the earlier memo means that agents can continue to assist people using a disaster/emergency SEP. It’s a win-win for Medicare recipients and the professionals who serve their financial interests.”