Your 7-Month Enrollment Window
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window centered on your 65th birthday. Getting the timing right prevents penalties that can last a lifetime.
| When | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 3 months before you turn 65 | Your IEP opens. This is the ideal time to enroll in Parts A and B through Social Security (ssa.gov or your local office) |
| Your birthday month | If enrolled in the first 3 months, coverage starts on the 1st of your birthday month. Research Part D and MA plans for your county. |
| 1-3 months after turning 65 | Last chance to enroll without delay. Coverage start dates are pushed later the longer you wait within this window. |
| Month you turn 65 (Medigap) | Your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment starts. This is your one guaranteed-issue window for supplement plans. |
Still Working at 65? California Has Many Large Employers
California’s tech sector, university system, state government, and healthcare industry mean many residents are still actively employed at 65 with strong group health coverage. Here’s the rule:
- Employer has 20+ employees: Your group plan is primary. You can safely delay Part B (and avoid the late penalty) until you or your spouse leave that job or lose coverage. Sign up for Part A — it’s free and doesn’t conflict with employer coverage.
- Employer has fewer than 20 employees: Medicare becomes primary at 65. You need Part B to avoid coverage gaps, even if you keep the employer plan as secondary.
UC and CalPERS Retirees
If you’re retiring from the University of California system or a CalPERS agency, your retiree health benefits coordinate with Medicare. You typically must enroll in both Parts A and B to keep your retiree coverage. Contact your benefits office well before turning 65.
The Decisions You’ll Make
- Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage? This is the fundamental fork. Compare the two paths →
- If Original Medicare: Do you want a Medigap supplement? California’s birthday rule makes this state especially attractive for Medigap.
- Part D drug coverage: Standalone Part D if on Original Medicare, or built into your MA plan. Learn about Part D →
- Medi-Cal eligibility: If your income is limited, you may qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal, which covers premiums and cost-sharing.
Avoid These Common California Mistakes
- Missing your Medigap window: The 6-month guaranteed-issue period starts when you have Part B. After it closes, insurers can reject you or charge more based on health. Don’t wait.
- Delaying Part B without qualifying coverage: The 10% per-year penalty is permanent. Make sure your employer plan counts as “creditable coverage.”
- Skipping Part D: Even if you take no medications now, the 1% per-month penalty compounds. Enroll in at least a low-cost plan.
- Not checking Medi-Cal eligibility: Many Californians qualify but don’t know it. Check savings programs →
Free Help for New Medicare Beneficiaries
Navigating Medicare for the first time can feel overwhelming. California offers two free resources:
- HICAP counselors: Unbiased, volunteer-based counseling in every county. Call 1-800-434-0222. Learn more →
- Licensed agents: Can compare specific plans and handle enrollment for you. Find an agent in your county →
When should I sign up for Medicare if I'm turning 65?
Your Initial Enrollment Period starts 3 months before your 65th birthday month. For the earliest coverage start date, enroll during those first 3 months.
Can I delay Medicare if I'm still working in California?
If your employer has 20+ employees, you can delay Part B without penalty while covered by the employer plan. You should still sign up for Part A since it's free.
What's the penalty for late Medicare enrollment?
Part B penalty: 10% of the standard premium for each 12-month period you could have had Part B but didn't. Part D penalty: 1% of the base premium per month without creditable drug coverage. Both penalties are permanent.
Should I get Medicare Advantage or Medigap in California?
It depends on your priorities. California's birthday rule makes Medigap particularly attractive since you can switch plans annually. Medicare Advantage offers lower premiums and extra benefits but requires using plan networks.