Best Medicare Supplement Plans in California
After researching various plans, we’ve determined that for most beneficiaries in California, Medicare Supplement Plan G is the best choice and has the most comprehensive benefits. Plan N is the second-best option, followed by High Deductible Plan G.
How Much Do They Cost per Month?
- Plan G: $145 to $265
- Plan N: $105 to $175
- High Deductible Plan G: $63 to $133
Original Medicare often has “gaps” in coverage; this falls on you to pay out of pocket. This may include coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles.
The federal government standardizes all Medicare Supplement plans, so all ten Medigap plan types offer the same benefits, regardless of which company provides the plans.
What Do Medicare Supplement Plans Cover?
Below is a list of the top four plans with coverage highlights:
Medicare Supplement Plan G
- Plan G is the best plan in California and offers the most comprehensive coverage for those with a Medicare effective date post 1/1/20.
- Compared to Plan F, it has excellent cost savings, especially for those who can choose.
Medicare Supplement Plan N
- Plan N is the second-best plan and is great for those who want comprehensive coverage and are okay with trading certain benefits for monthly savings.
- Requires up to $50 copay for emergency room visits. The copay is waived if the beneficiary is admitted.
- Doctor visits will cover up to $20 for copays.
High Deductible Plan G
- Same Benefits as Medicare Plan G
- Annual Deductible of $2,700
- Significantly Cheaper than Medicare Plan G
- High Deductible Plan G is Considerably Cheaper than High Deductible Plan F yet Covers everything in high deductible F except for the Part B Deductible.
Medicare Supplement Plan F
- Plan F has the most comprehensive benefit level; however, the beneficiary must have a Medicare start date before 1/1/20.
What’s the Most Popular Medicare Supplement Company in California?
Based on our review of several key factors, Mutual of Omaha is California’s top Medicare Supplement company.
Although Mutual of Omaha Medigap plans may provide some of the most affordable options in California, cost should not be the only factor when selecting a Medicare Supplement provider. Every company has its unique pros and cons based on its coverage methods.
Mutual of Omaha stands out among the competition due to its cost-effectiveness, numerous plan options, household discounts on premiums, and excellent customer satisfaction ratings.
This chart compares Mutual of Omaha with other Medicare Supplement companies in California. You’ll find helpful information here, like sample premiums and ratings.
| Plan G Cost | Company | Financial Strength |
|---|---|---|
| $172 | Mutual of Omaha | A+ |
| $175 | Cigna | A |
| $242 | Aetna | A |
| Plan N Cost | Company | Financial Strength |
|---|---|---|
| $127 | Cigna | A |
| $135 | Mutual of Omaha | A |
| $163 | Aetna | A+ |
How Does the California Medigap Birthday Rule Work?
As of January 1, 2020, the Medigap Birthday Rule in California allows you to make a change during the 60 days following your birthday each year. It used to be limited to 30 days. During this time, you can’t be charged more or turned down for coverage because of pre-existing medical conditions.
However, you can only switch to a plan with the same or fewer benefits as you already have.
How to Choose a Medigap Plan in California
As you compare plans available in your area, consider these factors:
Monthly premium: This is paid in addition to your Part B monthly premium. It is a set amount you pay each month, regardless of whether or not you use your benefits. The premium costs are determined based on several factors, such as the type of plan selected, age, gender, tobacco use, and state of residence.
Plan options: With every type of plan, you are offered basic coverage for Part A copays and coinsurance, at least a portion of the Part B copays and coinsurance, three pints of blood, and hospice care. However, other benefits may not be included. Check which benefits are most important to you before finalizing your purchase.
Insurance provider: Always check the ratings and reviews to understand other people’s experiences when looking for a carrier. You can also contact a company representative to discuss their customer service levels and responsiveness.
Extra discounts: Some insurance companies offer additional benefits or discounts once you become a member. For example, you may have access to discounted hearing aid providers or eyeglass suppliers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Medicare Supplement plans can range from $50-$300 per month. Those rates can differ based on your age, level of coverage, and provider.
Aetna and Cigna are two of the larger providers. However, various supplemental insurance providers in California may offer a better plan for a particular individual’s needs.
Next Steps
We specialize in guiding Medicare beneficiaries through their Medicare insurance options. We work with some of the nation’s top-rated Medigap carriers so that you can be sure you’re getting the best possible service. Take a deeper look at the plans by reviewing our Medicare Supplement Plans Comparison Chart. Additionally, you can give us a call today to learn more or request a quote online.
Article Resources:
- Types of Medigap Plans
- How Much Do Medigap Plans Cost?
- How Do I Enroll in a Medigap Plan?
- When Can I Change Medigap Plans?
- When Can I Apply for a Medicare Supplement Plan?
- Can I Be Denied Medigap Coverage?
- CMS Medicare Services
- California Medicare Supplement Birthday Rule
- California Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program
- California Health Advocates: Low-Income Help
Disclaimer:
Average quotes are for sample purposes only. Actual premiums are based on several factors, including health conditions, age, location, tobacco status, gender, and insurance provider.
