A Medigap plan is supplemental insurance that pays some or all of what Original Medicare leaves you: the Part A and Part B deductibles, the 20% Part B coinsurance and hospital costs. Plans are standardized by letter, so a Plan G from one company has the same benefits as a Plan G from another. What differs is the premium, the company’s rate history and its service.
How Medigap works with Original Medicare
Medicare pays its share of an approved bill first, then your Medigap plan pays its share. There are no networks: any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare accepts your plan. Medigap does not include drug coverage, so most people pair it with a separate Part D plan.
Plan G vs Plan N in 2026
| Benefit | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part A deductible ($1,736 in 2026) | Covered | Covered |
| Part B deductible ($283 in 2026) | You pay | You pay |
| Part B 20% coinsurance | Covered | Covered, except copays |
| Office visits | $0 after the deductible | Up to $20 per visit |
| Emergency room | $0 after the deductible | Up to $50, waived if admitted |
| Part B excess charges | Covered | Not covered |
| Foreign travel emergency | 80% up to plan limits | 80% up to plan limits |
Source: CMS, 2026 Medicare Parts A and B premiums and deductibles
Plan F still exists, but only people who were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020 can buy it. For most new enrollees, Plan G is the most complete option. Try the Plan G vs Plan N calculator with real quotes.
When you can buy without health questions
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the six months starting the month you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During it, a company cannot turn you down or charge more because of your health. After it, in most states, the company can ask health questions and decline you, unless a guaranteed issue right applies (for example, your Medicare Advantage plan leaves your area). That is why the first decision matters.
How premiums are priced and why they rise
Companies price plans in one of three ways: community rated (same price for everyone), issue-age rated (based on your age when you buy) or attained-age rated (rises as you age). Premiums also rise with medical costs. Let’s be real: rate increases have been steep the last few years, which is why we review clients’ supplement rates and shop them when it makes sense and when health questions allow.
Medigap or Medicare Advantage?
Medigap costs more each month but makes your costs predictable and lets you see any Medicare provider. Medicare Advantage often costs less each month but uses a network and copays. Neither is right for everyone. We walk through both, with your doctors and prescriptions in front of us.