Health care can be expensive, even with Medicare. That’s where Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) helps. Medigap is a type of private insurance designed to cover the costs that Medicare doesn’t pay, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
If you have Medicare but still face high out-of-pocket expenses, Medigap can give you peace of mind and financial security.
Many seniors and retirees choose Medigap to reduce their medical bills and ensure predictable healthcare costs. There are different Medigap plans, each offering varying levels of coverage. Some plans even cover emergency healthcare when traveling abroad, making them a great option for frequent travelers.
But how do you know which Medigap plan is right for you? What does it cover? How much does it cost? In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know, from eligibility and enrollment to plan comparisons and costs.
By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how Medigap works and how to choose the best plan for your needs. Let’s dive into Medigap and how it can help you save on healthcare expenses.
If you’re a Medicare beneficiary looking for lower healthcare expenses and better financial protection, this guide will help you understand:
- What Medigap is and how it works
- The different Medigap plans available
- Who qualifies for Medigap coverage
- How to choose the right plan
- Costs, enrollment, and switching policies
- FAQs about Medigap coverage
Understanding Medigap can help reduce medical expenses and ensure you receive the best healthcare coverage.
What is Medigap?
Medigap is a private health insurance policy designed to supplement Original Medicare. It helps cover the costs that Medicare doesn’t pay, such as:
✅ Medicare Part A & B coinsurance and copayments
✅ Deductibles (depending on the plan)
✅ Foreign travel emergency coverage (some plans)
✅ Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
Medigap policies do not cover:
❌ Prescription drugs (you’ll need a separate Medicare Part D plan)
❌ Long-term care (like nursing home care)
❌ Dental, vision, or hearing aids
If you need prescription drug coverage, check out our guide on Medicare Part D: What You Need to Know.
How Does Medigap Work?
Medigap policies are offered by private insurance companies, but they follow federal and state regulations.
- You must be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B to buy Medigap.
- Medigap works alongside Original Medicare, meaning Medicare pays its share first, and then your Medigap policy covers the remaining approved costs.
- Each Medigap policy covers only one person (spouses must buy separate policies).
Types of Medigap Plans
Medigap policies are standardized and labeled Plan A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N.
📌 Internal Link: Read more about Medicare Plans: A Detailed Comparison.
Most Popular Medigap Plans
| Plan | Covers Part A Deductible? | Covers Part B Coinsurance? | Covers Foreign Travel Emergencies? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan F | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Plan G | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Plan N | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (with copays) | ✅ Yes |
- Plan F (Best for full coverage) – Covers all Medicare out-of-pocket costs (Not available for those new to Medicare after Jan 1, 2020).
- Plan G (Best for comprehensive coverage) – Similar to Plan F but does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible.
- Plan N (Best for lower premiums) – Covers most expenses but requires copays for some doctor visits.
📌 Note: Some states may offer high-deductible Plan F and G with lower premiums.
Who is Eligible for Medigap?
To qualify for Medigap, you must:
- Be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B
- Live in a state where Medigap is offered
- Apply during the Medigap Open Enrollment Period (first 6 months after you turn 65 and enroll in Part B)
Can You Get Medigap if You Have Medicare Advantage?
No. You cannot have both Medigap and a Medicare Advantage Plan at the same time.
📌 Learn more about the differences in our guide on Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage.
How Much Does Medigap Cost?
Medigap premiums vary based on:
- Plan type (F, G, N, etc.)
- Insurance company pricing
- Your location
- Your age and health status (if applying outside open enrollment)
On average, Medigap plans range from $50 to $300 per month, depending on the level of coverage.
💡 Tip: Shop around and compare multiple insurance providers to find the best deal.
📌 Check out How to Compare Medigap Plans and Prices.
How to Enroll in Medigap
- Check your eligibility – Ensure you have Medicare Part A & B.
- Compare Medigap plans – Choose the best plan for your needs.
- Find an insurance provider – Purchase from a licensed private insurer in your state.
- Apply during Open Enrollment – This guarantees coverage approval with no medical underwriting.
📌 Internal Link: Need help enrolling? Read Step-by-Step Guide to Signing Up for Medigap.
FAQs About Medigap
1. Can I switch Medigap plans?
Yes, but outside the Open Enrollment Period, you may have to go through medical underwriting and face higher costs.
2. Does Medigap cover prescription drugs?
No. You need Medicare Part D for drug coverage.
3. What’s the best Medigap plan?
Plan G is the most comprehensive option for those new to Medicare, while Plan N offers lower premiums with some copays.
4. Can I get Medigap if I’m under 65?
It depends on your state. Some states offer Medigap to younger individuals with disabilities.
5. What happens if I travel abroad?
Some Medigap plans cover foreign travel emergencies (up to 80% of costs).
📌 Internal Link: For more details, check Does Medicare Cover International Travel?.
References
- Medicare.gov – Medigap Policy Basics
- National Association of Insurance Commissioners – Choosing a Medigap Plan
Conclusion
Medigap is a valuable Medicare Supplement Insurance that helps reduce out-of-pocket costs for healthcare. Choosing the right plan depends on your medical needs, budget, and coverage preferences.
If you want comprehensive coverage, Plan G is a great choice. If you prefer lower premiums, consider Plan N. Make sure to enroll during Open Enrollment to avoid medical underwriting.
By understanding Medigap, comparing plans, and choosing wisely, you can ensure financial protection and peace of mind for your healthcare needs.
Ready to choose a plan? Read How to Pick the Best Medigap Policy for You.