Glossary · Marketplace
What is guaranteed issue?
Guaranteed issue is a requirement that health plans let you enroll regardless of health status, age, gender, or other factors that might predict use of care. In most states it does not limit what you can be charged.
Definition and figures from Medicare.gov, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.
Run it in Rivvi
Ask how guaranteed issue works on your plan
Rivvi explains the term from public CMS, Medicare.gov, and HealthCare.gov sources and works through an example with your numbers.
Ask RivviFree to start. No card. Opens Rivvi, the AI workspace for healthcare teams.
Guaranteed issue: the facts
| Item | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Medigap use | Situations where an insurer can't deny a Medigap policy are called guaranteed issue rights | Medicare.gov: Get ready to buy Medigap |
Compare and look up
- Medigap vs Medicare AdvantageSide-by-side comparison
Related terms
Questions
What does guaranteed issue mean in health insurance?
Guaranteed issue is a requirement that health plans let you enroll regardless of health status, age, gender, or other factors that might predict use of care. In most states it does not limit what you can be charged.