Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans
Medicare Supplement Insurance, also known as Medigap, is a vital part of many seniors’ healthcare planning. These private insurance policies help cover out-of-pocket costs not paid by Original Medicare, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down how Medigap works, who it's best for, how to compare plans, and tips for making the right choice.
📑 Table of Contents
| Section | Jump to Section |
|---|---|
| What is Medigap? | Jump to Section |
| Who is Eligible? | Jump to Section |
| How Medigap Works with Original Medicare | Jump to Section |
| Standardized Medigap Plans | Jump to Section |
| Comparing Medigap Plan Options | Jump to Section |
| Costs and Pricing | Jump to Section |
| Best Time to Enroll | Jump to Section |
| Enrolling in Medigap Before Age 65 | Jump to Section |
| Pros & Cons of Medigap | Jump to Section |
| Top Medigap Carriers in 2025 | Jump to Section |
| Common Medigap Misconceptions | Jump to Section |
| Interactive Comparison Checklist | Jump to Section |
| FAQs | Jump to Section |
| Next Steps | Jump to Section |
❓ What is Medigap?
Medigap is private health insurance designed to supplement Original Medicare (Parts A and B). It helps fill “gaps” such as deductibles, coinsurance, and excess charges, providing predictable out-of-pocket costs. Medigap policies are standardized and regulated by federal and state laws to protect consumers.
🧾 Who is Eligible?
You’re eligible to purchase a Medigap plan if:
- You are enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
- You are age 65 or older (some states allow for younger disabled individuals).
- You apply during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (6 months after turning 65 and enrolling in Part B).
Outside of this window, you may face underwriting or denial of coverage depending on your health status.
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🔗 How Medigap Works with Original Medicare
When you receive care, Medicare pays its share of the approved amount. Medigap then kicks in to cover all or part of the remaining costs depending on your plan. You must still pay your Medicare Part B premium in addition to the Medigap premium.
Note: Medigap only works with Original Medicare and does not work with Medicare Advantage Plans.
📋 Standardized Medigap Plans
Medigap plans are standardized into lettered options: A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N. Each plan offers a different set of benefits, but Plan G and Plan N have become the most popular among new enrollees since Plan F is only available to those eligible before January 1, 2020.
🧾 Medigap Plan Comparison Table
| Benefit | Plan G | Plan N | Plan F* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part A Coinsurance | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Part B Coinsurance | ✔ | ✔† | ✔ |
| Part A Deductible | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Part B Deductible | ✘ | ✘ | ✔ |
| Foreign Travel Emergency | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
† Plan N requires copayments for office and ER visits.
⚖️ Comparing Medigap Plan Options
Here’s how to compare plans effectively:
- Coverage Needs: Choose based on what benefits you use most.
- Budget: Plans like K and L offer lower premiums with higher cost-sharing.
- Provider Access: All Medigap plans let you see any provider that accepts Medicare.
Consider working with a licensed Medicare agent to evaluate your specific needs.
💵 Costs and Pricing
Medigap premiums vary based on:
- Geographic location
- Age (community-rated vs issue-age-rated vs attained-age-rated)
- Gender and tobacco use
Plan G is often considered the best value for comprehensive coverage at a mid-range premium, especially for new Medicare beneficiaries.
📆 Best Time to Enroll
The best time to buy a Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This is a one-time 6-month window that starts when you're both 65 and enrolled in Part B. During this time, you have guaranteed issue rights—insurers cannot deny you or charge more due to health issues.
Missed it? You may still apply later, but underwriting may apply.
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Schedule a Call🧒 Enrolling in Medigap Before Age 65
While Medigap is typically marketed to those turning 65, individuals under age 65 who qualify for Medicare due to disability or end-stage renal disease (ESRD) may also be eligible in certain states. However, access and pricing vary widely depending on where you live.
✅ Key Considerations for Under-65 Enrollees:
- Not all states require insurers to offer Medigap to those under 65. Check your state’s rules.
- Even in states that allow it, premiums for under-65 applicants are often significantly higher.
- Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period will restart at age 65, giving you another opportunity to enroll with guaranteed issue rights.
If you're under 65 and on Medicare due to disability, be sure to shop carefully and compare Medigap with Medicare Advantage as a possible alternative.
Check out: Medicare Supplement Under 65 and Disabled
⚖️ Pros & Cons of Medigap
✅ Pros:
- Freedom to visit any doctor or specialist that accepts Medicare—no network restrictions.
- Predictable, reduced out-of-pocket expenses compared to Original Medicare alone.
- No referrals required to see a specialist.
- Plans are standardized—Plan G is the same no matter which company sells it.
- Portable coverage—great for people who travel frequently or live in multiple states.
🚫 Cons:
- Monthly premiums can be higher than Medicare Advantage.
- No built-in prescription drug coverage (you'll need Part D).
- Does not offer extra benefits like dental, vision, or fitness memberships.
- Not all states require Medigap availability under age 65.
- Switching plans later may involve underwriting in most states.
🏢 Top Medigap Carriers in 2025
While all Medigap plans are standardized, companies differ in price, customer service, claims handling, and rate increases. Here are some of the top-rated Medigap insurers in 2025:
| Carrier | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Aetna | Strong financial backing, competitive pricing, wide availability. |
| Mutual of Omaha | Trusted brand with excellent claims service and stable rate history. |
| UnitedHealthcare (AARP) | Largest Medigap provider, extensive customer support, nationwide reach. |
| Humana | Competitive rates in select states and bundling options with dental/vision. |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield (varies by state) | Local focus with strong provider networks and customer satisfaction. |
Tip: Use your zip code to get state-specific carrier ratings, plan pricing, and discounts.
Check out: How much does Medigap cost per month?
❌ Common Medigap Misconceptions
Let’s debunk some myths that could prevent you from making the best coverage decision:
- “Medigap is the same as Medicare Advantage.”
❌ False! Medigap supplements Original Medicare. Medicare Advantage replaces it. - “All Medigap plans are expensive.”
❌ Not true. Plans K and L offer lower-cost options with cost-sharing. - “You can switch Medigap plans anytime without penalties.”
❌ You may face medical underwriting if you switch outside your guaranteed issue period. - “Medigap includes drug coverage.”
❌ You'll need to enroll in a separate Part D plan for prescriptions.
Check out: How to Switch from Advantage to Medigap
📝 Interactive Medigap Comparison Checklist
Use this simple checklist to compare and narrow down your Medigap options:
- ✅ Do I want coverage for the Part B deductible? (Only available in Plan F if eligible)
- ✅ Do I prefer lower monthly premiums with cost-sharing? (Plans K, L, or N)
- ✅ Do I travel frequently and need foreign emergency coverage? (Plans G, N, F)
- ✅ Am I okay with small copays in exchange for savings? (Plan N)
- ✅ Is rate stability and customer service important to me?
- ✅ Does my state offer household or non-tobacco discounts?
Pro Tip: Print this checklist or bring it to a meeting with your Medicare advisor.
📚 FAQ
- Q: Can I switch Medigap plans at any time?
A: Yes, but you may be subject to medical underwriting unless you have a special circumstance. - Q: Does Medigap cover prescription drugs?
A: No. You’ll need a separate Medicare Part D plan for prescription coverage. - Q: Are Medigap plans available through any insurance company?
A: Yes, as long as they’re licensed in your state. But premiums and customer service can vary.
🚀 Next Steps
Ready to explore Medigap plans? Here’s what to do:
- Compare rates from top-rated insurers in your area.
- Check if you qualify for any special enrollment rights.
- Consult a local licensed agent for personalized guidance.
💡 Tip: Use a quote engine or Medicare broker site to compare multiple plans side-by-side with no obligation.
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