Medicare Supplement plans
Medicare Supplement insurance, also called Medigap, is sold by private insurance companies and works alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B). It's a separate product from Medicare Advantage, and the two don't work together. A supplement doesn't include prescription drug coverage, so most people pair one with a separate Part D plan.
Your first window
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the 6 months that start the first month you're 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During that window, you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state without medical underwriting.
Outside that window
You can apply for a supplement any time of year, but health questions may apply. Certain situations, like losing employer or other coverage, can give you a guaranteed right to buy some Medigap policies.
Tried Medicare Advantage at 65?
If you joined a Medicare Advantage plan when you first became eligible at 65, you may be able to go back to Original Medicare and buy a Medigap policy within your first 12 months without medical underwriting.
The California birthday rule
If you already have Medicare Supplemental insurance, you have 60 days of "open enrollment" following your birthday each year when you can buy a new Medicare Supplemental policy without a medical screening or a new waiting period. The new policy must have the same or lesser benefits as your old policy.
Questions about your situation?
Call (916) 633-5464 (TTY 711). Calling this number will get you scheduled with a licensed insurance agent.