Like the residents of many other US territories, Californian policyholders also enjoy easy access to Medigap plans. These California Medicare Supplement plans serve as an add-on to already existing Medicare coverage.
The most popular California Medicare Supplement plans are plans F, G, and N. When comparing the overall benefits of the other types of plans offered in California, F, G, and N definitely make the most sense for several reasons, which we shall thoroughly discuss in this article. Moreover, the same fact also holds true when you consider the Medigap plans of other states.
Prices of California Medicare Supplement plans depend on the carrier. Aside from that, the rates also rely on the location. Therefore, you need to carefully pay attention to the pricing system to get the best deal. Always remember that different Medigap carriers generally offer different rates.
For an average 65-year-old female, the prices for plan F typically range from $135 to $220 a month. This pricing structure already covers coinsurance, copayments, deductibles, and excess charges, among others.
Plan G is around $115 to $200 a month and doesn’t cover the part B deductible at $166 per year, which you need to pay yourself.
Finally, plan N is priced at around $80 to $195 per month, and doesn’t cover the part B deductible and excess charges, which you also have to pay, aside from the amount of $0 to $20 for copayment.
The Birthday Rule
California Medicare Supplement plans require the observance of what is commonly referred to as the Birthday Rule. The Birthday Rule is unique to California and allows you to change your Medigap plan from one provider to another around your birthday every year.
When switching Medicare Supplement plans in CA, you need to make sure the plan is equal or lesser than what you currently hold, to be eligible to an exchange. For example, you may switch from plan F of one provider to a plan F of another. Additionally, you may also switch from one plan to something of lesser benefit (F to G or G to N).
You may jump between California Medicare Supplement plans every year, regardless of the state of your health, as long as you’re choosing between the best Medicare Supplement plans that are similar.
Why the Birthday Rule Is Important
In most states, it is usually better to go for plan G. With California’s Birthday Rule, it makes the most sense to start on Plan F, as you can change to a plan of equal or lesser benefit in the future.
There are numerous Medigap carriers in California, but for many policyholders, it doesn’t matter that much, since the Birthday Rule allows them to switch between carriers anyway, in case they’re not satisfied with their existing ones.
What Plan Should You Start with, in California?
As mentioned, plan G is usually considered the best of the three top California Medical Supplement plans. However, the Birthday Rule allows you to mix it up every year. If you’re dissatisfied with what one provider is offering, you may opt to go for another carrier of supplemental insurance the following year.
Getting Started
The best way to know which plan and carrier you should go for is to compare your options on your own. But if you need any help, you may fill out a quote request form on the site or contact us at 800-208-4974.
We hope to hear from you soon!