Compare the Best Medigap Plans in California for 2024
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If you’re a California resident with Original Medicare, boosting your Part A and B coverage is easy with one of the best Medigap plans in California. With ten plan options available to help minimize your out-of-pocket costs, selecting the right plan for your healthcare and budget needs is simpler than ever.
On this page, you'll find the leading California Medicare Supplement and insurance companies for 2024.
Discover the Top 3 Best Medigap Plans in California for Complete Protection
Among the ten standardized Medigap plans, Plans F, G, and N are consistently the top choices for Medicare enrollees in California. These Medicare Supplement plans offer varying levels of coverage that help reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenses. If you're seeking maximum coverage, Plan F may be ideal, while Plan G offers strong coverage with lower premiums. To compare affordable options, explore Plan N vs. Plan G.
Below is a detailed breakdown of what makes them the most popular plans, along with key benefits and top providers in California.
Medigap Plan F in California
For those looking for the highest level of coverage, Medigap Plan F is an excellent option. It covers nearly all Medicare-related expenses, including both Part A and Part B deductibles, making it the best Medicare Supplement plan for those wanting maximum protection. Find out more about the differences between Plan F and Plan G and find out if a High-Deductible Plan F is a good fit for you.
Required Benefits of Plan F in California
Medigap Plan G in California
For those looking for extensive coverage without the higher premiums of Plan F, Medicare Supplement Plan G is an excellent coverage option. The only significant gap is the Medicare Part B deductible, which many find acceptable in exchange for lower monthly costs. Discover the pros and cons of choosing Plan G.
Required Benefits of Plan G in California
Medigap Plan N in California
For those seeking a more affordable option, Plan N delivers strong coverage with lower monthly premiums. Though it does require small copayments for certain visits, it remains a popular choice for those looking to balance coverage and costs, but it does not cover excess charges. Explore the key facts about Plan N.
Required Benefits of Plan N in California
Average Costs for Medigap Plans in California
In California, the cost of a plan varies depending on factors like the plan type, your age, gender, and tobacco use. Here’s an overview of the typical monthly premiums for the most popular supplemental plans in the state:
- Plan G: $150 - $200 per month
- Plan N: $120 - $170 per month
Key Factors Influencing Medigap Costs in California
The price of Medicare Supplements in California can vary based on several important factors, including:
- Age: Premiums often rise as you age.
- Gender: Women may find that their premiums are slightly lower than men’s.
- Tobacco Use: Using tobacco typically leads to higher premiums.
- Location: Your location in California can impact your premium due to regional cost differences.
Looking for ways to lower your Medigap and out-of-pocket costs? Learn how to find the most affordable Medigap coverage.
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Compare All Medicare Supplement Plans in California
If you want to see how all Medicare Supplement Insurance plans sold in California stack up, the chart below provides a complete comparison of what Plans A through N cover. Use this chart to get a full picture of your options in California and choose the plan that best fits your needs.
NOTE: If you did not quality for Medicare on or before January 1, 2020, Plan F and Plan C are not available to you.
How and When to Enroll in Medigap Plans in California
Medigap enrollment in California is governed by specific periods that determine when you can sign up for coverage. Your eligibility to enroll and the cost of your plan can depend on the timing of your enrollment. Below, we explain the key enrollment periods:
Medigap Enrollment Periods
- Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): This seven-month period spans from three months before your 65th birthday to three months after. During this window, you can choose any Medigap plan without facing pre-existing condition exclusions. Learn more about the Initial Enrollment Period.
- Open Enrollment Period (OEP): The six-month Medigap open enrollment period begins when you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B. You can sign up for any Medigap plan during this time without medical underwriting. Read more about the Medigap Open Enrollment Period or explore tips for navigating Medigap enrollment.
- Special Enrollment Period (SEP): If you experience certain life events, such as losing other health coverage, you might qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in a Medigap plan. Learn more about Special Enrollment Periods.
Steps to Enroll in a Medigap Plan
Ready to sign up for Medicare Supplement coverage in California? Here's how to do it:
- Review Your Options: Compare the available Medigap plans in California to find the right match for your healthcare needs and budget.
- Check Enrollment Dates: Ensure that you’re in the right enrollment period, whether it’s your Initial Enrollment Period, Open Enrollment Period, or a Special Enrollment Period.
- Apply for Coverage: Reach out to your chosen insurer or broker to apply for your preferred Medigap plan.
- Confirm Your Enrollment: Once approved, confirm your enrollment and make sure you understand your coverage.
For more guidance on enrolling in Medigap, visit our Medigap Enrollment Guide.
Common Questions About Medigap Plans in California
How is Medigap different from Medicare Advantage?
Medigap works alongside Original Medicare to cover gaps in coverage, while a Medicare Advantage plan is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through private insurance.
Can I change Medigap plans later?
Yes, you can switch plans, but medical underwriting may apply unless you qualify for guaranteed issue rights. Learn more about changing Medigap plans.
Does Medigap include prescription drug coverage?
No, Medigap plans don’t cover prescription drugs. You’ll need a separate prescription drug plan, called Medicare Part D for that.
What additional costs will I have with Medigap?
Beyond the monthly premium, you may face deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, depending on your plan.
Citations & References
- Costs of Medigap policies, Medicare.gov, Last Accessed October 4, 2023
- What's Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap)?, Medicare.gov, Last Accessed October 4, 2023
- Find a Medigap policy that works for you, Medicare.gov, Last Accessed October 4, 2023
- How to compare Medigap policies, Medicare.gov, Last Accessed October 4, 2023
- How Original Medicare works, Medicare.gov, Last Accessed October 4, 2023
- Your Medicare coverage choices, Medicare.gov, Last Accessed October 4, 2023