The Basics
What Is a Medicare Supplement Plan?
Original Medicare (Parts A and B) covers most major medical services, but it doesn't cover everything. You're responsible for deductibles, coinsurance (typically 20% of every bill), and copays - with no annual out-of-pocket maximum. A single serious illness could cost you tens of thousands of dollars.
A Medicare Supplement plan (also called Medigap) is private insurance that pays some or all of the costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover. Plans are standardized by the federal government - Plan G from one insurer covers exactly the same benefits as Plan G from another. The only difference is the monthly premium.
Fills the Gaps
Covers deductibles, coinsurance, and copays that Original Medicare leaves unpaid.
Nationwide Coverage
Works with any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare - no network restrictions.
Predictable Costs
Know your maximum out-of-pocket exposure before you need care.
You likely need Medigap if…
- You have ongoing health conditions requiring frequent care
- You want predictable, capped out-of-pocket costs
- You travel frequently or split time between states
- You want to see any Medicare-accepting doctor without referrals
- You're risk-averse and value financial certainty
You may not need Medigap if…
- You're choosing Medicare Advantage (Medigap doesn't work with MA)
- You qualify for Medicaid, which covers most cost-sharing
- You're in excellent health and comfortable with some financial risk
- You strongly prefer lower monthly premiums over predictability
- You have retiree coverage from an employer that fills the gaps
Standardized Benefits
Medigap Plan Comparison
All plans available to new Medicare enrollees in 2026. Plans C and F are no longer available to those new to Medicare after Jan 1, 2020.
| Benefit | Plan G★ Popular | Plan N★ Popular | Plan D |
|---|---|---|---|
Part A coinsurance & hospital costs (up to 365 days after Medicare benefits) | |||
Part B coinsurance or copayment | 50% | ||
Blood (first 3 pints) | |||
Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment | |||
Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance | |||
Part A deductible | |||
Part B deductible | |||
Part B excess charges | |||
Foreign travel emergency (up to plan limits) |
Most Popular in 2026
Plan G vs. HDHP Plan G vs. Plan N vs. Plan D
Plan G
Most PopularBest overall coverage
$100–$200/mo
Typical premium for a 65-year-old, 2026
Pros
- Covers everything except Part B deductible ($283/yr)
- No copays at the doctor or specialist
- Includes foreign travel emergency coverage
- Covers Part B excess charges
Cons
- Higher monthly premium than Plan N
- Part B deductible ($283) still applies
Best for
Anyone who wants comprehensive, predictable coverage with no surprises.
HDHP Plan G
Growing in PopularityLowest premium, catastrophic protection
$40–$100/mo
Typical premium for a 65-year-old, 2026
Pros
- Significantly lower monthly premium than standard Plan G
- Same comprehensive coverage as Plan G once deductible is met
- Includes foreign travel emergency coverage
- Covers Part B excess charges (after deductible)
Cons
- $2,870 annual deductible must be met first (2026)
- Does NOT cover Part B deductible ($283)
- Higher out-of-pocket risk if you need frequent care
Best for
Healthy beneficiaries who want catastrophic protection at the lowest possible monthly premium.
Plan N
Best ValueLower premium, small copays
$70–$150/mo
Typical premium for a 65-year-old, 2026
Pros
- Meaningfully lower premium than Plan G
- Covers Part A deductible and coinsurance
- Includes foreign travel emergency coverage
- Good for healthy, infrequent medical users
Cons
- Up to $20 copay for office visits
- Up to $50 copay for ER visits (waived if admitted)
- Does NOT cover Part B excess charges
Best for
Healthy enrollees who want solid coverage at a lower monthly cost.
Plan D
Underrated PickComprehensive minus excess charges
$80–$160/mo
Typical premium for a 65-year-old, 2026
Pros
- Covers Part A deductible and SNF coinsurance
- Includes foreign travel emergency coverage
- No copays for office visits
- Often lower premium than Plan G
Cons
- Does NOT cover Part B excess charges
- Does NOT cover Part B deductible
- Less widely marketed than G or N
Best for
Enrollees who want Plan G-level coverage but are willing to skip excess charge protection for a lower premium.
Personalized Guidance
Which Medigap Plan Is Right for You?
4-Question Quiz
Which Medigap Plan Is Right for You?
Answer 4 quick questions for a personalized recommendation.
How would you describe your overall health?
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period Is a One-Time Window
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is the 6-month window that begins the first day of the month you are both age 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window, insurers are legally required to sell you any Medigap plan they offer at standard rates - regardless of your health history.
Once this window closes, most states allow insurers to use medical underwriting - meaning they can charge you higher premiums, exclude pre-existing conditions, or deny your application entirely. This window does not repeat.
When it starts
1st day of the month you turn 65 AND are enrolled in Part B
How long it lasts
6 months - it does not renew or repeat
What you're guaranteed
Any plan, standard rates, no medical questions
Common Questions