Medicare plays a key role in providing health and financial security to beneficiaries residing in California. California has more than 6.3 million beneficiaries enrolled in Medicare. In fact, more than 10% of ALL Medicare beneficiaries live in California! We’ll cover some very important information below about Medicare in California. We want to help you better understand your options and make the decision-process as seamless as possible once you’re ready to enroll in Medicare or discover different coverage options.
California Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Insurance and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)
For more information on how you can save money on your out-of-pocket costs with a Part C, Part D, or Medigap plan, please click the plans below to learn more. Licensed agents can also answer any of your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget by clicking here.
California Medicare Enrollments
Original Medicare Plans (Part A and B)
Medicare Advantage & Other Health Plans
Stand-alone Medicare Part D (Drug Plans)
Total Medicare Beneficiaries in California
Who Qualifies for Medicare in California?
Medicare covers most California residents who are 65 or older, and it also covers disabled California residents. In general, Medicare enrollment in California works the same way as it does in the rest of the country. If you qualify for Original Medicare, also known as Part A and Part B, it will help cover 80% of your health care costs.
When you’re first eligible for Medicare, you have a 7-month Initial Enrollment Period to sign up for Part A and/or Part B. If you’re eligible for Medicare when you turn 65, you can sign up during the 7-month period that:
- Begins 3 months before the month you turn 65
- Includes the month you turn 65
- Ends 3 months after the month you turn 65
In most cases, if you don’t sign up for Part B when you’re first eligible, you’ll have to pay a late enrollment penalty. You’ll be responsible for paying this penalty for as long as you have Part B, and you could have a gap in your health coverage.
Once you reach Medicare eligibility, you can begin choosing additional coverage options to help pay for the remaining 20% of your medical expenses through Medicare Advantage (Part C), Medigap, and/or a Medicare Prescription Drug (Part D) plan.
Local Medicare Health Plan Resources in California
California’s Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP): HICAP provides free, confidential one-on-one counseling, education, and assistance to individuals and their families on Medicare, Long-Term Care insurance, other health insurance related issues, and planning ahead for Long-Term Care needs. HICAP also provides legal assistance or legal referrals in dealing with Medicare or Long-Term Care insurance-related issues.
Contact: Call 1-800-434-0222. You can also search for your nearest HICAP office on the Department of Aging website.California Health Advocates: The leading non-profit focused on Medicare advocacy and education in California. They provide timely information on Medicare and long-term care, and conduct state and national policy advocacy for increased consumer rights and protections.
Contact: Full list of California Health Advocates contactsCalifornia Department of Managed Health Care: The Department assists you if have additional concerns or complaints, or a dispute regarding insurance purchased through your employer, Medicaid coverage, Medicare coverage, or “self-insured” employer.
Contact: Call (888) 466-221, visit http://www.HealthHelp.ca.gov, or email helpline@dmhc.ca.gov.
The licensed agents that are partnered with Timefor65 can help you compare the availability, benefits, and costs of Medicare plans in your specific region of California. Our process makes it easier for you to access your Medicare eligibility in California so that you receive personalized, affordable, and easy-to-use coverage options and solutions. Fill out the form or give us a call at (866) 327‑0148 anytime to get a free quote or to ask any questions.