What it is
Medigap plans are private insurance policies that help pay some costs Original Medicare leaves behind, such as certain coinsurance and deductibles. Most states label them with letters, and each letter covers a standard set of benefits no matter which carrier sells it.
Plan G is a broad plan. It covers many of the gaps in Original Medicare, though it generally does not cover the Part B deductible. Plan G also comes in a high-deductible version, which works differently.
Plan N covers many of the same gaps, but it asks you to share a little more cost in certain situations. For example, some office visits and some emergency room visits may involve a copay, and Part B charges above the Medicare-approved amount are not covered. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin standardize Medigap differently, so letters there may not match this description.
Both plans are sold to people who are newly eligible for Medicare. Plans C and 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.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Many people approach this choice by comparing how much they want to pay each month against how much they are comfortable paying when they use care. Plan G has traditionally appealed to people who want more predictable costs. Plan N has traditionally appealed to people who use care less often and are open to some cost-sharing.
Another common step is looking at who is allowed to charge what. Some providers may bill above the Medicare-approved amount, and that matters more with Plan N. Readers often ask how common that is where they live.
People also look at timing. Open enrollment, guaranteed issue and medical underwriting rules vary by state and change over time. Many readers confirm current rules with Medicare.gov, their State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), or a licensed agent.
How the right licensed agent may help
The right licensed agent may help you line up Plan G and Plan N side by side, using quotes from carriers available in your area. A conversation is generally a relaxed Q&A about your health habits, preferred doctors and budget comfort.
You might ask: How do the monthly premiums compare for my age and state? How often might I face copays under Plan N? What happens if my doctor charges above the Medicare-approved amount? Will I need to answer health questions to enroll?
A Medigap agent may also explain how Medigap compares fairly with Medicare Advantage. Medigap generally allows any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare, with no network or referrals, but premiums are often higher and drugs need a separate Part D plan. Medicare Advantage often has lower premiums, an annual out-of-pocket maximum and extra benefits, but may use networks and prior authorization. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for more information.
The bigger picture
Choosing a plan is about more than numbers. Some people feel calmer knowing most costs are predictable. Others feel comfortable with a little cost-sharing in exchange for a different monthly budget. Stress about surprise bills can affect rest and wellbeing, so peace of mind matters.
If you are also thinking about finding care that fits your life, Providers.plus may be one place to explore. Whatever you choose, take your time and ask questions until you feel at ease.
Keep in mind
- This page is education only, not insurance, legal, tax or medical advice.
- 1-800-MEDIGAP is not Medicare.gov or any government agency. Official information is at Medicare.gov.
- Neither plan is best for everyone, and acceptance is never guaranteed, especially if medical underwriting applies.
- Rules, availability and costs vary by state and carrier, so confirm current details before deciding.
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 the main difference in plan G vs plan N?
Plan G generally covers more of the gaps in Original Medicare, while Plan N asks you to share some costs, such as certain copays and charges above the Medicare-approved amount. Monthly premiums often differ as a result. A Medigap agent may show you current options in your area.
Is Plan G or Plan N better?
Neither is best for everyone. The better fit depends on how often you use care, your budget and your comfort with cost-sharing. Comparing quotes and asking questions may help you decide.
Do Plan G and Plan N cover the Part B deductible?
Generally, no. Neither plan covers the Part B deductible. Plans C and F did, but they are available only to people who became eligible before January 1, 2020.
Can I switch between Plan G and Plan N later?
It may be possible, but rules vary by state and carrier. Switching can involve medical underwriting, which means you could be asked health questions and may not be accepted. Check with SHIP, Medicare.gov or a licensed agent.
Is Plan H still available?
No. Plan H was discontinued and is not sold today, even though people still search for it. Plans A, B, D, G, K, L, M and N are sold to people newly eligible for Medicare.
How does a Medigap plan compare with Medicare Advantage?
Medigap generally lets you see any provider nationwide that accepts Medicare, with no networks or referrals, but premiums are often higher and drugs need a separate Part D plan. Medicare Advantage often has lower premiums, an out-of-pocket maximum and extra benefits, but may have networks and prior authorization. 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.