What it is
A Medicare supplement quote is an estimate of what a company may charge for a Medigap policy. Medigap plans help pay some costs that Original Medicare leaves behind, such as certain coinsurance and deductibles.
Medigap plans are standardized by letter. Only Plans A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N (and high-deductible Plan G) are sold to people newly eligible for Medicare. 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. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize Medigap differently.
Because a plan letter covers the same basic benefits no matter which company sells it, quotes mainly differ by price and company. A quote is not an offer of coverage. Final approval and cost depend on the company, your state and your situation.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many people have looked for quotes by contacting insurance companies one at a time. Others have used printed guides, state insurance department resources, or the plan finder tools on Medicare.gov.
Quotes often depend on factors such as your age, location, tobacco use and the plan letter you choose. Some companies set prices in different ways, so two quotes for the same plan letter can look quite different.
Outside certain enrollment windows, a company may ask health questions before approving a policy. This is called medical underwriting. Rules on open enrollment, guaranteed issue and similar protections vary by state and change over time, so it helps to confirm current rules with Medicare.gov or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
How the right licensed agent may help
A Medigap agent is a licensed professional who may be able to gather quotes from several companies in one conversation. Agents are often paid by the insurance companies, so it is fair to ask how an agent is paid and which companies they represent.
A visit or call is often a simple conversation. You may be asked about your age, ZIP code, tobacco use, current coverage and when you became eligible for Medicare. Having your Medicare card handy may help.
Good questions to ask include: Which plan letters am I eligible for? Do I need to answer health questions? How might this company's rates change over time? Do I need a separate Part D drug plan? Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
The bigger picture
Choosing a Medigap policy is a money decision, but it is also a peace-of-mind decision. Some people value knowing they can see any provider that accepts Medicare. Others prefer the lower premiums and extra benefits that many Medicare Advantage plans offer. Neither choice is wrong, and each has trade-offs.
Taking your time may ease stress. Write down your questions, ask a trusted family member to listen in, and remember that you do not have to decide on the first call. If you are also looking for care providers, Providers.plus may be one place to explore.
Keep in mind
- Medigap and Medicare Advantage are different. Medigap often offers any-provider flexibility and predictable cost-sharing, but monthly premiums are generally higher and drugs need a separate Part D plan.
- Medicare Advantage plans often have lower premiums, an annual out-of-pocket maximum and extra benefits, but they may use networks, prior authorization and copays.
- Medigap does not usually include routine dental, vision or hearing coverage.
- 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 are Medicare supplement quotes?
Medicare supplement quotes are price estimates from insurance companies for Medigap policies. They show what a company may charge for a specific plan letter based on details like your age and location. A quote is not a guarantee of coverage.
Are Medicare supplement quotes free?
Getting a quote is generally free and does not obligate you to buy. It is still wise to ask whether any fees apply before sharing personal details. A Medigap agent can explain how the process works.
Why do quotes differ for the same Medigap plan?
Quotes differ because each company sets its own pricing. Standardized plan letters cover the same basic benefits, but companies may price by age, location, tobacco use and other factors. Comparing several companies may help you understand your options.
Will I have to answer health questions to get a quote?
It depends on your timing and state. During certain enrollment windows or guaranteed issue situations, companies may not be able to use health history. Outside them, medical underwriting may apply. Confirm current rules with Medicare.gov, your SHIP or a licensed agent.
Can I get Medicare supplement quotes for Plan F or Plan H?
Plan F is available only to people who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. Plan H was discontinued and is not sold today. Newly eligible people may look at plans such as G or N instead, among the others available.
How can a Medigap agent help with Medicare supplement quotes?
A Medigap agent may be able to compare quotes from several companies and explain the differences in plain English. They may also help you understand enrollment timing. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
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.