Medicare Help in California

Licensed in California and Nevada

Many of our clients live in California, and some split their time between California and Nevada. Because Scott is licensed in both states, you can work with the same advisor wherever you live. We handle comparisons, applications and follow-up by phone, so there's no need to come into an office.

California's Medicare Supplement birthday rule

California gives people with a Medicare Supplement plan a yearly chance to switch. For 60 days starting on your birthday, you can change to a supplement plan with equal or lesser benefits, from any insurance company, without answering health questions.

Supplement premiums usually rise over time, so this window is a valuable chance to lower your premium. We'll compare rates before your birthday each year so you're ready.

Plans vary by county

Medicare Advantage and Part D plans are approved county by county, so the options in Los Angeles can be quite different from those in San Diego or Sacramento. Medicare Supplement prices also vary by where you live. We'll look at the plans available at your address and check that your doctors, hospitals and prescriptions are covered.

Moving between California and Nevada?

If you split your time between the two states or are planning a move, the type of coverage you choose matters:

• Original Medicare with a Medicare Supplement plan works with any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare, which makes it easy to get care in both states.
• Most Medicare Advantage plans are built around local networks, so care outside your home area may be limited to emergencies.
• If you move permanently, you'll usually get a Special Enrollment Period to choose a new Medicare Advantage or Part D plan.

Other helpful resources in California

• HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program): free, unbiased Medicare counseling from the State of California
• Medi-Cal: California's Medicaid program, which can help people with limited income pay for Medicare costs
• Social Security: 1-800-772-1213, for signing up for Parts A and B