Medicare Supplement (Medigap): Compare Plans, Quotes and Switching

Medicare Supplement, also called Medigap, is health coverage sold by private insurance companies. It works alongside Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and may help with cost-sharing that Original Medicare leaves to you, depending on the plan letter you choose.

Medigap plans are identified by letters, such as Plan G and Plan N. Benefits for each letter are standardized in most states, so a given letter generally offers the same basic benefits from any carrier. Carriers differ in things like pricing method, service, and rate history. Plans C and F are available only to people who were eligible for Medicare before 1 January 2020. Medigap does not include prescription drug coverage, so a separate Part D plan is generally needed.

Medigap is not the same as Medicare Advantage (Part C). Medigap pairs with Original Medicare, while Medicare Advantage is an alternative way to receive Medicare benefits through a private plan. Rules, standardization and availability can vary by state, so check Medicare.gov or speak with a licensed agent for current details.

Many people first look at Medigap around the time they turn 65 or enroll in Part B. There is typically a Medigap open enrollment period tied to that moment, during which carriers generally can't use medical underwriting to decline you or charge more for health reasons. Timing and rules matter, so it helps to confirm them for your situation.

People who prefer Medigap often point to the freedom to see any provider that accepts Medicare, without a plan network, and to predictable cost-sharing. Trade-offs include premiums that are generally higher than with many Medicare Advantage plans, possible medical underwriting if you apply outside open enrollment or a guaranteed-issue period, and the need to add a separate Part D plan.

Others choose Medicare Advantage, often because drug coverage and extras such as dental, vision or hearing may be included. Its trade-offs include provider networks, prior authorization requirements, and cost-sharing that varies from plan to plan. Neither path is right for everyone. It often comes down to health needs, budget, preferred doctors and comfort with uncertainty.

A licensed independent agent may help you understand how Medigap letters differ, including how Plan G and Plan N are generally structured, and what each might mean for the costs you could face. A conversation often starts with your timing, current coverage, doctors, pharmacy and how you like to budget for health care.

If you're considering switching Medigap plans, an agent may explain how the process typically works, whether underwriting could apply, and what to compare before making a change. Helpful questions include: Which carriers do you represent? How have this carrier's rates changed over time? What would my timeline look like? Can I see the plan's outline of coverage?

Quotes come from licensed agents and carriers, not from 2A Benefit. Because Medicare plans are sold by agents appointed with each carrier, you may wish to ask which carriers an agent works with. Confirm any agent's license with your state insurance department, and never feel pressured to decide on the spot.