California
California gives Medigap shoppers a rare switching right — the 30-day birthday rule — which converts your plan letter and carrier into an annually re-shoppable decision.
| Rule | California |
|---|---|
| Birthday rule | Yes — switch carriers/letters 30 days after your birthday |
| Guaranteed issue | Birthday rule + standard federal windows |
| Own Medigap system | No — standard federal plans |
| Rate review | CDI filing review |
| Practical edge | Re-shop Plan G every year without health underwriting (same letter) |
The birthday rule in practice
Within 30 days after your birthday each year you may switch to another carrier’s equal-or-lesser plan letter with no medical underwriting. It resets carrier pricing power annually — the reason no-birthday-rule states reward picking a low-increase carrier while CA rewards re-shopping. Full mechanics: rate strategy.
Carrier landscape
CA fields a deep bench — Anthem BCBS, Blue Shield of CA, UHC/AARP, Aetna, Humana all file aggressively. The ZIP pricing file shows the coastal/inland spread.
FAQ
Can I upgrade letters under the birthday rule?
No — equal or lesser letter only; upgrades require underwriting outside other GI windows.
Does the birthday rule exist in every state?
No — roughly a dozen states have a version; Texas, for one, does not.
Related reading: All states · Carrier board · Rate strategy