What Medicare Supplement Covers
Original Medicare (Parts A + B) covers about 80% of your medical costs. You're responsible for the rest — which can add up fast. Medigap policies cover some or all of what Medicare doesn't:
| What Medicare Doesn't Cover | Medigap Helps With |
|---|---|
| Part A hospital deductible ($1,632/benefit period) | Plans G, F, N cover this |
| Part B deductible ($240/year) | Plan F only (no longer sold to new enrollees) |
| Part B coinsurance (20% of all outpatient costs) | Most plans cover this |
| Skilled nursing facility coinsurance | Plans G, F, N cover days 21–100 |
| Emergency foreign travel | Plans C, D, G, M, N (80% up to limits) |
| Excess charges | Plan G covers 100% |
Best Medigap Plans 2026
| Plan | Coverage Level | Monthly Cost (Age 65) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan G | Most comprehensive (new enrollees) | $100–$180 | Most new Medicare beneficiaries |
| Plan N | High coverage, small copays | $80–$140 | Healthy seniors wanting lower premiums |
| Plan K | 50% coinsurance coverage | $50–$90 | Very healthy seniors, low-cost option |
| Plan F | All gaps covered (not for new enrollees) | $120–$220 | Eligible before Jan 1, 2020 only |
Plan G vs Plan N — Which Is Better?
These are the two most popular choices for new Medicare enrollees:
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part B excess charges | Covered 100% | Not covered |
| Office visit copay | $0 | Up to $20 |
| ER copay | $0 | $50 (waived if admitted) |
| Monthly premium | ~$130–$160 | ~$90–$130 |
Rule of thumb: Plan N makes sense if you rarely see specialists (who may charge excess fees) and are comfortable with small copays. Plan G provides more predictable costs — no surprise bills.
When to Enroll
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the 6 months starting the month you turn 65 AND are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window, insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge more due to health conditions. After this window, you may be subject to medical underwriting.
Don't miss this window. It's one of the most important insurance enrollment deadlines in existence.
Get Medicare Supplement Quotes
Compare Plan G and Plan N rates from top Medigap carriers in your state.
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