📍 California

Medicare in California — what most people miss

California has a Medicare rule most residents have never heard of — and it could save you hundreds per year. Here's what you need to know before your next birthday.

Birthday Rule

Every year around your birthday, you can switch Medigap plans — no health questions asked. A 60-day window to potentially save hundreds.

Kaiser Complexity

Kaiser Medicare Advantage is not the same as employer Kaiser. Network, benefits, and cost structure all change when you transition.

IRMAA Appeals

Tech retirees often face Medicare surcharges from RSU vests or liquidity events. Many don't know these can be appealed.

Before you decide

3 things California Medicare enrollees should know

Missing the Birthday Rule window

Your 60-day Birthday Rule window opens and closes every year. If you're on a Medigap plan with a higher premium than you need, you may be leaving hundreds of dollars on the table annually.

Assuming Kaiser works the same on Medicare

Kaiser Permanente offers a Medicare Advantage plan — but it's not the same as your employer Kaiser plan. Network, benefits, and cost structure all change.

Not appealing IRMAA after a one-time income event

An RSU vest, property sale, or large RMD from two years ago may be driving today's surcharges. If your income has dropped since then, you can appeal.

Not sure where your Birthday Rule window is?

Tell us your birthday and we'll check whether your window is open — and how to use it. No obligation — we'll tell you honestly if your current plan is already the right one.

Check My Birthday Window