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Some plans have a $0 monthly premium, but you still pay the Part B premium, and you pay copays or coinsurance each time you use care, up to a yearly out-of-pocket maximum. The plan may also require you to use its network and get referrals. Compare the whole year — premium plus what you would pay when sick — not the monthly number alone.
Apply this to my situationThe rules behind this
Medigap fills Original Medicare’s gaps — and has its own six-month window
A Medigap (Medicare Supplement) policy is private insurance that pays some of what Original Medicare does not, such as coinsurance and deductibles. Plans are standardized by letter. Your best guaranteed chance to buy one is the six months starting when you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B; after that, an insurer can often ask health questions and charge more or refuse.
Who this is for
People choosing Original Medicare.
What changes it
- Medigap cannot be used with a Medicare Advantage plan.
- California adds its own rights; see the California rules.
The question that settles it
“When does my six-month Medigap open enrollment start and end?” — HICAP or the California Department of Insurance.
October 15 to December 7: the yearly window to change plans
Every year during Open Enrollment you can switch between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage, change Medicare Advantage plans, or join, drop or change a drug plan. Changes take effect January 1.
Who this is for
Everyone who already has Medicare.
What changes it
- Switching from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare does not by itself guarantee a Medigap policy; see the Medigap rule.
The question that settles it
“If I make this change by December 7, exactly what will my coverage be on January 1?” — Medicare Plan Finder or HICAP.
Get help
Free Medicare counseling
California HICAP offers free, confidential Medicare counseling. Ask the local program about language and appointment availability.
California HICAP1-800-MEDICARE
Call 1-800-MEDICARE and ask for an interpreter. TTY: 1-877-486-2048.
Call Medicare · 1-800-633-4227Official information in other languages ↗External resource. Some pages are in English; ask for language assistance if needed.