What is the process for transitioning from a Covered California plan to Medicare when I turn 65?

To transition from Covered California to Medicare, you must enroll in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period and then actively cancel your Covered California plan to stop your premium tax credits and avoid financial penalties. Here is the step-by-step process for a smooth transition: Step 1: Enroll in Medicare Three months before you turn 65, your seven-month Medicare Initial Enrollment Period begins. You must proactively enroll in Medicare. You can do this online at the Social Security Administration website (SSA.gov), by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local Social Security office. Step 2: Choose Additional Coverage Once you are enrolled in Original Medicare (Parts A and B), decide if you need a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan and a Part D prescription drug plan, or if a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan is a better fit. Research these options while your Medicare application is processing. Step 3: Report Your Medicare Enrollment to Covered California Once you receive your Medicare card and confirm your coverage start date, you must report this change to Covered California immediately. You can do this by logging into your account at CoveredCA.com or by calling their Service Center. This step is critical for stopping your premium tax credits. Step 4: Cancel Your Covered California Plan Request to end your Covered California plan effective the last day of the month before your Medicare coverage starts. For example, if your Medicare begins July 1, you should request to cancel your Covered California plan effective June 30. This timing prevents a gap in coverage or a costly overlap. Get written confirmation of the cancellation. Important considerations: Under California regulations, you are no longer eligible for a premium tax credit through Covered California once you are eligible for premium-free Medicare Part A. If you continue to receive these credits, you will be required to pay them back to the IRS. Do not cancel your Covered California plan until you have received your Medicare card and have a confirmed start date for your new coverage. Warnings and limitations: Failure to enroll in Medicare Part B during your Initial Enrollment Period can result in a permanent late enrollment penalty. Do not simply stop paying your Covered California premium; you must formally cancel your plan through Covered California to end your financial obligation. This is general information and does not constitute legal advice. For complex situations, such as eligibility questions or issues with paying back tax credits, consult with a qualified California attorney.