When health questions are usually not used
Federal Medigap Open Enrollment — typically the six months after you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B — is the strongest guaranteed-issue window for most people. California’s birthday rule is a separate annual window for people who already have a Medicare Supplement and want equal or lesser benefits. Other guaranteed-issue situations can apply (for example certain trial rights). Confirm the one that matches your facts.
When Health questions a Medicare Supplement company may ask. The company can charge more or decline the application. Some windows do not allow those questions. may apply
Outside a guaranteed-issue or birthday window, a company may ask medical questions, rate the policy, or decline the application. That is why timing matters if you are leaving Original Medicare plus Medigap, or trying to change letters. Do not drop coverage until you know whether the new policy can be issued.
Medicare Advantage is a different path
Leaving a Medicare Advantage plan for a Medicare Supplement is not the same as using the birthday rule. Federal trial rights exist in limited cases. Many other switches to a Medicare Supplement can involve Health questions a Medicare Supplement company may ask. The company can charge more or decline the application. Some windows do not allow those questions.. Get the rule that applies to you in writing before you disenroll.
Where to verify
Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 711), the California Department of Insurance, and California HICAP (1-800-434-0222) are the official places to confirm rights. A licensed California agent can explain the landscape. This website cannot underwrite or issue a policy.