Medicare in California — what you need to know
Medicare works the same way across all 50 states — Parts A, B, C, and D have the same federal rules and cost structures everywhere. However, the specific plans available to you depend on where you live. Medicare Advantage and Part D drug plans are offered by private insurers, and availability, premiums, and networks vary by county.
Key fact: California has one of the largest and most competitive Medicare Advantage markets, with hundreds of plans available — especially in Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, and San Diego.
2026 Medicare costs in California
| Medicare cost | 2026 amount |
|---|---|
| Part A premium (40+ quarters worked) | $0/month |
| Part B standard premium | $185/month |
| Part B annual deductible | $257/year |
| Part A hospital deductible | $1,676 per benefit period |
| Part D out-of-pocket cap | $2,000/year |
| Medicare Advantage OOP max | Up to $9,350 in-network |
Medicare Advantage plans in California
California's HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) provides free Medicare counseling statewide.
To see every Medicare Advantage plan available at your specific address in California, use the official Medicare Plan Finder at Medicare.gov. This tool shows every plan, their star ratings, premiums, networks, and drug coverage for your exact ZIP code.
⚠️ Always check your doctors are in-network: Before enrolling in any Medicare Advantage plan, confirm that your primary care physician and any specialists you see regularly participate in the plan's network. Network changes happen annually.
Medigap supplement plans in California
If you choose Original Medicare (Parts A + B), you can add a Medigap supplement plan to cover the gaps — the 20% Part B coinsurance, the Part A deductible, and other out-of-pocket costs. In most states including California, Plan G is the most comprehensive Medigap option available to new enrollees in 2026.
Medigap plans are sold by private insurers but the benefits are standardized — Plan G from one insurer covers the same benefits as Plan G from another. Shop on price, company stability, and rate increase history.
Important: Enroll in Medigap during your 6-month Open Enrollment Period (when you first enroll in Part B at 65) for guaranteed issue rights. After this window, insurers may use health underwriting in most states.
Free Medicare help in California
California's SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling from trained volunteers. SHIP counselors can help you:
- Compare Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans available in your county
- Review your current coverage and identify better options
- Understand your Medicare rights and how to appeal decisions
- Apply for Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy) for Part D
- Navigate Medicare billing problems and fraud issues
California SHIP contact: California SHIP — HICAP (800-434-0222)
Also note: California's HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) provides free Medicare counseling statewide.
Medicare vs long-term care in California
Medicare does not cover long-term nursing home care or most assisted living costs. If you're concerned about future long-term care costs, visit our sister site for California-specific Medicaid planning information, care costs, and funding options.
🧭 California Medicaid & long-term care guide →Frequently asked questions
When should I enroll in Medicare in California?
You should enroll during your 7-month Initial Enrollment Period (3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after your 65th birthday). Enrolling in the 3 months before your birthday ensures coverage starts on your birthday month.
Does Medicare cover dental in California?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not cover routine dental care. Some Medicare Advantage plans in California include dental benefits — compare plans to find one that includes the dental coverage you need.
Can I see any doctor with Medicare in California?
With Original Medicare, you can see any doctor who accepts Medicare anywhere in California or the country. With Medicare Advantage, you're typically limited to the plan's network in California, though emergency care is covered anywhere.