Who This Article Is For
If you’re a California resident approaching 65, you’re facing two critical milestones: Medicare enrollment and the need to update your estate planning documents. This comprehensive guide walks you through both processes to ensure you avoid costly mistakes and protect your family’s future.
Source: Kiplinger – How to Sign Up for Medicare
Why Medicare Enrollment Matters for California Seniors
Turning 65 triggers your Medicare eligibility—but missing enrollment deadlines can cost you thousands in lifetime penalties. California residents need to understand the enrollment process and how Medicare impacts their estate planning strategy.
Understanding Your Medicare Initial Enrollment Period
Your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is a 7-month window:
Begins 3 months before your 65th birthday month
Includes your birthday month
Extends 3 months after your birthday month
Example: If your birthday is June 15, 2026, your IEP runs from March 1, 2026, through September 30, 2026.
Step-by-Step: How California Residents Sign Up for Medicare
Step 1: Determine If You’re Already Enrolled
You may be automatically enrolled if:
You’re already receiving Social Security benefits
You’re receiving Railroad Retirement Board benefits
You’ll receive your Medicare card in the mail 3 months before turning 65
You need to manually enroll if:
You’re still working at 65 with employer health coverage
You delayed Social Security benefits past 65
You’re not receiving Social Security or RRB benefits
Step 2: Understand Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D
Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and home health
Most people pay no premium (if you or spouse paid Medicare taxes for 10+ years)
2026 deductible: Check current Medicare.gov rates
Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, medical equipment
2026 standard premium: Verify current rates (income-based adjustments apply)
Late enrollment penalty: 10% increase for each 12-month period you delay
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage)
Alternative to Original Medicare (Parts A & B)
Offered by private insurance companies
Often includes prescription drug coverage
Popular with California seniors in HMO-dense areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, Sacramento
Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)
Standalone drug coverage if you have Original Medicare
Late enrollment penalty: Lifetime 1% of base premium per month delayed
California residents should compare plans annually during Open Enrollment
Step 3: Enroll Through the Correct Channel
Three ways to enroll in Medicare:
1. Online (Fastest Method)
Visit Medicare.gov
Create or log into your my Social Security account
Complete the online application (takes 10-15 minutes)
2. By Phone
Call Social Security: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
Monday-Friday, 8am-7pm ET
Wait times can be lengthy during peak enrollment periods
3. In Person
Visit your local California Social Security office
Schedule appointment online to reduce wait time
Bring required documents: birth certificate, citizenship/residency proof
Step 4: Choose Your Medicare Coverage Path
Option 1: Original Medicare (Parts A & B) + Supplement
More provider flexibility nationwide
Pair with Medigap policy to cover gaps
Add standalone Part D prescription drug plan
Option 2: Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Lower monthly premiums
Network restrictions (important for California residents who travel)
Includes prescription coverage in most plans
Popular California Medicare Advantage carriers: Kaiser Permanente, Blue Shield, Health Net
Critical Medicare Deadlines California Seniors Must Know
The Cost of Missing Medicare Deadlines
Part B Late Enrollment Penalty:
10% premium increase for each 12-month period you could have enrolled but didn’t
Penalty lasts your entire lifetime
Exception: If you have creditable employer coverage
Part D Late Enrollment Penalty:
1% of national base premium multiplied by months without coverage
Also lasts your lifetime
2026 base premium: Check Medicare.gov for current rate
Real cost example: Delaying Part B for 3 years results in a 30% permanent premium increase—costing California seniors an additional $1,500-2,000+ annually.
Special Considerations for California Residents
If You’re Still Working at 65
Employer has 20+ employees:
Employer coverage is primary; Medicare is secondary
You can delay Part B without penalty
You must enroll within 8 months of employer coverage ending
Employer has fewer than 20 employees:
Medicare becomes primary coverage
You should enroll in Part B at 65 to avoid gaps
California small business owners: consult with benefits specialist
California-Specific Medicare Resources
Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program (HICAP)
Free, unbiased Medicare counseling for California seniors
Local offices throughout California counties
Help comparing plans and understanding options
Phone: 1-800-434-0222
