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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 →

Under 65

Medicare before 65

For people who have Medicare because of a disability. The federal dates are the same; California adds rights of its own.

Medicare before 65 usually comes with Social Security disability benefits, after a 24-month wait, or immediately with ALS or kidney failure. The federal dates are the same; California adds Medigap rights that many states do not.

  • Enrollment in Parts A and B is usually automatic in the 25th month of disability benefits; the card arrives by mail.
  • Working while on Medicare does not end it during the trial work period; check with Social Security before turning it down.
  • Medi-Cal and Medicare together cover most costs for people who qualify for both.
  • At 65 there is a second Medigap open enrollment, with no health questions and age-65 pricing.

Under 65 with Medicare: California guarantees a Medigap window

People with Medicare because of a disability get a six-month Medigap open enrollment in California when Part B starts, and a second one at 65. Premiums for people under 65 can be higher, and some plans are not offered; HICAP explains the current options.

Source: California Department of Insurance — Medicare Supplement · In effect since 2000-01-01 · Last checked 2026-09-06

Medigap has one six-month window with no health questions

It starts the first month you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During those six months a company must sell you any Medigap policy it offers, at the same price as someone in good health. Outside it, rights vary by state.

Source: Medicare.gov — Ready to buy Medigap · In effect since 1992-01-01 · Last checked 2026-09-06

HICAP is California's free Medicare counseling program

The Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program gives free, confidential, one-on-one help in every county. Counselors do not sell insurance. The statewide line is 1-800-434-0222.

Source: California Department of Aging — HICAP · In effect since 1990-01-01 · Last checked 2026-09-06

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Free help 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

  • 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