What it is
High deductible Plan G is a version of Medigap Plan G. Medigap is private insurance that may help pay some costs Original Medicare leaves behind, such as certain coinsurance and copays.
With this version, you generally pay a set deductible each year before the plan begins paying. After that, it offers the same standardized Plan G benefits. The deductible amount is set each year, so check current details.
Plan G is one of the plans sold to people newly eligible for Medicare. Those plans are A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N, plus high-deductible Plan G. Plans C and F (and high-deductible F) are available only to people who became eligible before January 1, 2020. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize Medigap differently.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many people have looked at Medigap to make healthcare costs more predictable. Standard Plan G is a common choice for that reason.
Some people weigh high deductible Plan G when they want a lower monthly premium and are comfortable paying a deductible if care is needed. Others prefer the standard version because they would rather not face that deductible.
Neither choice is right for everyone. The decision often depends on health, budget, savings and comfort with risk. Medigap is also compared with Medicare Advantage, which has different strengths and trade-offs.
How the right licensed agent may help
A Medigap agent may help you understand how high deductible Plan G differs from standard Plan G. Agents who are independent may be able to explain options from several carriers.
A visit is generally a conversation. The agent may ask about your doctors, your health, your budget and how you feel about unexpected bills. You can ask questions at your own pace.
Good questions to ask: How does the deductible work for me? When does my open enrollment period end? Could medical underwriting apply? How does a separate Part D drug plan fit in? Rules vary by state, so confirm them with Medicare.gov, your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), or a licensed agent. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
The bigger picture
Choosing a plan is about more than numbers. Many people feel calmer when they know what to expect from their coverage. Others feel better keeping monthly costs lower and setting money aside. Both are reasonable ways to think about peace of mind.
Worry about medical bills can affect sleep, stress and even how willing someone is to seek care. Thinking through your comfort level ahead of time may help you choose with confidence. If you also need help finding care, Providers.plus may be a resource.
Keep in mind
- High deductible Plan G has a deductible you pay before the plan pays; this is the main difference from standard Plan G.
- Medigap does not include routine dental, vision or hearing, and drug coverage requires a separate Part D plan.
- Outside open enrollment or guaranteed issue, medical underwriting may apply, and rules vary by state.
- This page is education only, not insurance, legal, tax or medical advice. Official information is at Medicare.gov.
Take the next step
- Talk with a Medigap agent ↗Jeff Cline on contacts.plus — a person, not a call center.
Not sure where to start? Answer a few gentle questions and choose who you’d like to hear from.
Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information
Frequently asked questions
What is high deductible Plan G?
High deductible Plan G is a Medigap plan with the same benefits as Plan G once you meet an annual deductible. In exchange, monthly premiums are often lower. Details change each year, so confirm current information with Medicare.gov or a licensed agent.
Who can buy high deductible Plan G?
It is sold to people who are newly eligible for Medicare, and may also be available to others depending on state rules. Eligibility and enrollment rules vary by state. Check with Medicare.gov, your SHIP, or a licensed agent.
Is high deductible Plan G the same as Plan G?
No. The benefits are the same after the deductible is met, but the high deductible version requires you to pay that deductible first. The standard version generally does not work that way. Premiums usually differ between the two.
Is high deductible Plan G a good choice?
It depends on your health, budget and comfort with risk. No plan is best for everyone. A Medigap agent may help you compare it with other options.
Does high deductible Plan G cover prescription drugs?
No. Medigap plans do not include drug coverage, so people generally add a separate Part D plan. A licensed agent may explain how the two work together.
What is the difference between high deductible Plan G and Plan F?
High deductible Plan G is sold to people newly eligible for Medicare. High-deductible Plan F is available only to people who became eligible before January 1, 2020. Their benefits and rules differ, so confirm details with Medicare.gov or a licensed agent.
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.