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San Diego Medicare GuideSan Diego County
Operated by HealthBenefitsCompass LLC, a subsidiary of HealthcareGPS Inc.Medicare education · Not a government websiteReviewed by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN (licensed Medicare agent) and Karen OrillaHow we prepare our guidance →Meet our reviewers →

Reviewed for accuracy by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN, licensed Medicare agentReviewed for clarity by Karen OrillaMeet our reviewers →

Help with costs

Help with costs

Programs that lower what Medicare costs, who runs each one, and what to have ready. No income is asked for here.

An agency decides who gets each program. This site does not screen for eligibility and never asks for income.

Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy)

Lowers Part D premiums, deductibles and copays for prescriptions.

How to apply
Social Security, online or by phone. Medi-Cal members get it automatically.
Have ready
  • Medicare number
  • Last year's income figures
  • Bank and investment balances

Call 1-800-772-1213Visit: ssa.gov

Medicare Savings Programs (through Medi-Cal)

Pays the Part B premium; some levels also cover deductibles and copays.

How to apply
Your county Medi-Cal office. Since 2024 California does not count assets, but income limits apply and the county decides.
Have ready
  • Medicare card
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of California residence

Visit: dhcs.ca.gov

Full Medi-Cal with Medicare

Covers most costs Medicare leaves, including long-term care and dental, for people who qualify.

How to apply
Your county Medi-Cal office or Covered California.
Have ready
  • Identification
  • Proof of income
  • Household information

Visit: dhcs.ca.gov

Appeal a higher premium after a life change

If income dropped since the tax year Medicare used, the extra Part B and D premium can be recalculated.

How to apply
Social Security, form SSA-44, with proof of the event.
Have ready
  • Form SSA-44
  • Proof of the life change (retirement letter, death certificate, divorce decree)

Call 1-800-772-1213Visit: ssa.gov

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Where to apply in San Diego County

  • San Diego County HICAP

    Free, confidential, one-on-one Medicare counseling through the County of San Diego Aging & Independence Services. Not affiliated with any plan or agent.

    English · Español · + interpreters

    Call 1-800-434-0222Visit: sandiegocounty.gov

  • Social Security — signing up for Parts A and B

    Enrollment in Original Medicare goes through Social Security, online or by phone. TTY 1-800-325-0778.

    English · Español · + interpreters

    Call 1-800-772-1213Visit: ssa.gov

  • Medi-Cal — Medicare Savings Programs

    Help with Part B premiums and other costs is applied for through Medi-Cal. An agency decides who receives it; this site does not screen.

    English · Español · + others

    Visit: dhcs.ca.gov

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Before you go

Three quick questions

Not a test — a way to check that this page said what it meant to. A wrong answer shows the correction.

Who decides whether you get Extra Help or a Medicare Savings Program?
In California, where do you apply for help with the Part B premium?
Where is the deadline to appeal a denial written?