Or, you know, we could have a solid European-style social safety net where benefits aren't linked to employment AND the individual doesn't have to be an expert to handle their own benefits.
Or so the mythology goes.
EDIT: I thought about it some more and realized how big California is. As far as California goes, I think you’re actually right. California is just simply too big. I haven’t worked out an algorithm for it yet. That will require probably a whole city of computer scientists to work that one out.
Not only do they not "have to be an expert", the individual does not even get a choice in the matter.
Are you a Christian Scientist, and do not use health services? Do you want to prioritize school tuition over retirement? Retirement over health insurance?
Not to worry citizen. Your older brother has made the optimal choices for you so you don't have to