What it is
Medigap Plan G is one of several standardized Medicare Supplement plans sold by private insurance companies. It works alongside Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). It is designed to help with some out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare does not pay on its own.
Plan G is often described as the most comprehensive Medigap plan available to people newly eligible for Medicare. Plans A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N (and high-deductible Plan G) are the ones sold to new enrollees. Plans C and F, and high-deductible F, are available only to people who became eligible before January 1, 2020. Plans E, H, I and J were discontinued and are not sold today.
High-deductible Plan G has the same basic benefits as Plan G once you meet a yearly deductible. Before that, you generally pay certain costs yourself. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize Medigap differently, so Plan G may not look the same there. Medigap does not include a drug plan or routine dental, vision or hearing coverage.
How it’s traditionally been approached
People have traditionally looked at Plan G when they want more predictable costs and the freedom to see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare. There are no networks and no referrals needed. Many people like knowing how their cost-sharing works before they need care.
Others have preferred a different path, such as a Medigap plan with fewer benefits, or Medicare Advantage. Medicare Advantage often has lower monthly premiums, an annual out-of-pocket maximum, extra benefits and drug coverage in many plans. It may also use networks, prior authorization and copays. Neither approach is right for everyone.
Medigap premiums are generally higher than Advantage premiums, and they vary by carrier, state and age. Outside open enrollment or guaranteed issue periods, some applicants may face medical underwriting. A separate Part D plan is needed for drug coverage. Rules vary by state and change over time, so confirm current details with Medicare.gov, your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), or a licensed agent.
How the right licensed agent may help
A Medigap agent is a licensed professional who may help you understand how Plan G compares with other plans. A conversation is generally relaxed. The agent may ask about your doctors, your health needs, your budget and your state. You are not required to buy anything.
Agents who work with several carriers may be able to show you more than one company's Plan G. Because the benefits are standardized, differences often come down to the company, how it sets pricing, and its service. An agent may help you look at those differences side by side.
Good questions to ask include: When is my open enrollment window? Do I have any guaranteed issue rights? How does high-deductible Plan G differ for me? How does Plan G compare with Plan N or Medicare Advantage? Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
The bigger picture
Choosing a Medicare plan is about more than numbers. For many people, peace of mind matters just as much. Knowing how you may be covered can ease worry about future health needs and help you focus on living well.
Take your time and talk it through with people you trust. Your budget, health, and comfort with uncertainty are personal. If you are also looking for care providers, Providers.plus may be a helpful place to start.
Keep in mind
- Plan G is standardized, but pricing and service differ by company, state and age.
- Plan G is sold to people newly eligible for Medicare. Plans C and F are limited to those eligible before January 1, 2020.
- Open enrollment, guaranteed issue and underwriting rules vary by state, so confirm them with Medicare.gov, your SHIP or a licensed agent.
- This page is education only, not insurance, legal, tax or medical advice. Official information is at Medicare.gov.
Licensed agents
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Frequently asked questions
What is Medigap Plan G?
Medigap Plan G is a standardized Medicare Supplement plan sold by private insurers. It helps pay some costs that Original Medicare leaves behind. It is available to people newly eligible for Medicare, though rules differ in Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Is Plan G worth it?
It depends on your needs, budget and comfort with risk. Some people value its predictable cost-sharing and ability to see any provider that accepts Medicare. Others prefer lower premiums or extra benefits from other options, so comparing is wise.
What is high-deductible Plan G?
High-deductible Plan G offers the same basic benefits as Plan G after you pay a yearly deductible. Before you meet it, you generally pay covered costs yourself. Premiums are often lower, but a Medigap agent can explain how it may fit your situation.
Can I get Plan G quotes?
Yes, quotes are available from private insurance companies. Because Plan G benefits are standardized, quotes for the same plan can differ by carrier, state and age. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
Can I buy Plan F instead of Plan G?
Only if you became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. People newly eligible cannot buy Plan C or F. Plan G is often the closest option for new enrollees.
Is Plan G the same as Medicare Advantage?
No. Plan G supplements Original Medicare and lets you see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a private plan, often with lower premiums, extra benefits and networks. Each has strengths and trade-offs.
Educational resource. 1-800-MEDIGAP shares general information and connects people with independent licensed agents. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.