What it is
A household discount is a price reduction on the monthly premium of a Medigap policy. It is usually tied to having another person who lives at the same address also covered by the same insurance company. Many people think of it as a spouse or partner discount, though the definition of who counts can differ.
The discount is set by the insurance company, not by Medicare. Medigap plans are standardized, so a given plan letter covers the same basic benefits no matter which company sells it. Pricing is where companies differ, and discounts are one way they may do so.
Whether a discount exists, how much it is and who qualifies can all change. We do not list amounts here because they vary by carrier, state and year. Official plan information is at Medicare.gov.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many people have looked for a household discount by calling or checking the carriers that sell Medigap in their state. Couples often ask about it when both spouses are turning 65 around the same time. Some carriers apply it automatically. Others require a request or both policies to be active.
Shoppers have also compared a discounted premium from one company with the regular premium from another. A discount does not always make a plan cost less overall. Premium rating methods, plan letter and carrier all play a part. Some people look at how premiums may change over time, not just the starting price.
Some carriers offer other types of discounts, such as for paying a certain way or for not using tobacco. These are separate from a household discount. Rules on what is allowed vary by state, and Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize Medigap differently.
How the right licensed agent may help
A Medigap agent may help you find which carriers in your state offer a household discount, and what conditions come with it. Agents can often explain how the discount is applied, whether it needs both people on the same plan letter, and whether it continues if one person's coverage ends. An independent agent may be able to compare several carriers, though not every carrier is available to every agent.
A conversation is usually a simple chat about your situation. Expect questions about who is in your household, your ages, your state and which plans you are considering, such as Plan G or Plan N. Plans C and F are only available to people who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. Bring any current policy details if you are reviewing what you have.
Good questions to ask include: Is the discount guaranteed to stay? What happens if one of us moves, changes plans or passes away? How are premiums set over time? Does the discount apply to current policyholders, or only new ones? Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
The bigger picture
Insurance choices can bring worry, especially when a household is working with a set income. A discount may feel like a small relief, but peace of mind often comes from understanding the whole picture, including how coverage fits your health needs and budget over time.
It can help to make these decisions together, without rushing. Taking time to ask questions, and to talk with family or a trusted advisor, may leave you feeling more settled. If you are also looking for care providers, Providers.plus is one place to explore.
Keep in mind
- Not every company offers a medigap household discount, and rules differ by carrier and state.
- A lower premium is only one part of a decision. Compare plan letters, carriers and how premiums may change in the future.
- Outside open enrollment or guaranteed issue periods, some applicants may face medical underwriting. Confirm current rules with Medicare.gov, your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), or a licensed agent.
- This page is education only, not insurance, legal, tax or medical advice, and no outcome or savings is guaranteed.
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 a medigap household discount?
A medigap household discount is a premium reduction some carriers may offer when two or more people at the same address are insured with them. Each company sets its own rules, and not all offer one. A licensed agent or the carrier can confirm what is available in your state.
Does every Medigap company offer a household discount?
No, not every company offers one. Availability depends on the carrier and the state where you live. Asking each carrier directly, or working with a Medigap agent, may help you learn which ones do.
Do both spouses need the same Medigap plan to get the discount?
It depends on the carrier. Some may require both people to have a policy with them, and some may ask for the same plan letter. Ask the company for its exact conditions before you apply.
Can current policyholders get a household discount?
Sometimes, but it varies. Some carriers apply it only to new policies, while others may add it when a second household member enrolls. A premium and rate review of your current policy may help you understand your options.
Is a household discount the same as a lower-priced Medigap plan?
No. A discount reduces the premium for a given plan with a given carrier. Medigap plans of the same letter are standardized in most states, so differences in price often come from the carrier and how it sets rates. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize plans differently.
Where can I get official Medigap information?
Official information is available at Medicare.gov, and your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free local counseling. 1-800-MEDIGAP is an independent, privately run educational site and is not Medicare.gov or any government agency. 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.