The California Medicare Supplement “Birthday Rule” is a very unique law which California is one of only two states which allows this rule.  California law states; you have 30 days from the date of your birthday to change your Medicare Supplement plan to a company with the same plan or one with less benefits.  The change is guaranteed, meaning regardless of your current health status, the new California Medicare Supplement company cannot deny your application.

In California there is no need to stay with a company who is charging you more than the competition.  If the benefits are the same regardless of the company you are with, you should take full advantage of this unique California law.

What is the Medicare Supplement “Birthday Rule?”

If a person already has a Medicare Supplement plan, they have 30 days of “open enrollment” following their birthday each year when they may buy a new Medicare Supplement policy without a medical screening or a new waiting period.  The new policy must have the same or lesser benefits as the old policy.  This rule is only for Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies.  Medicare Advantage plans (HMO & PPO) have different rules that apply to their open enrollment options.

The two best times to purchase a Medicare Supplement policy are during the “Initial Enrollment Period” which is the six month window when you are new to Medicare Part B, or when you leave your employer health insurance plan.  The other time is during the Medicare Supplement “Birthday Rule.”  both are Guaranteed issue is situations.  You can also choose not to wait for your birthday and apply for a new company at anytime during the year.  In this situation you will be asked to complete the “Health Questions” on the application, and your approval is based on your current health status.  This is also a very common event.  If you have an ongoing health condition you can apply for coverage with a different company outside of the birthday rule, simply to see if the company will approve you.  Otherwise during the month of your birthday is your best option for lowering your monthly premium.

To compare rates of the different companies, please click on the company links above to compare rates.  Or, feel free to call anytime with your questions.

Enrolling is easy!

Complete the appropriate company application and fax it to me at: 800-995-9913 (fax) I’ll make keep you updated and make sure the processing of your application is quick.

Please feel free to call or email anytime with your questions or for more information.

Need help or have questions?

John Conner
Health & Medicare
www.JohnConner.com
john@johnconner.com
800-700-1246 – ph
800-995-9913 – fax