Compare Medigap Plans (2026 Guide)
What Are Medigap Plans?
Medigap plans (also called Medicare Supplement plans) are private insurance policies designed to work alongside Original Medicare. Their purpose is simple: to help cover the “gaps” in Medicare — including deductibles, coinsurance, and certain copayments.
Because Medicare does not cap your annual out-of-pocket costs, many beneficiaries choose a Medigap plan for predictable expenses and nationwide provider access.
In this 2026 guide, we’ll explain:
- How to determine which plan may be right for your situation.
- How Medigap plans work
- What each standardized plan covers
- How much Medigap plans cost
- The differences between Plan G, Plan N, and other options
I understand all of this – skip me ahead and tell me the best Medigap plan in my zip code.
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[si-contact-form form=’9′] I hate spam too, so I will never send any to you!Complete Guide to Medigap Plans in 2026: Coverage, Costs & Plan Comparison
First and foremost, you must understand the standardization of Medigap plans. This means that all Medigap plans, regardless of the company that sells them, are required to go by the standardized Medigap coverage chart. This means that a Plan G, for example, is the exact same with one company as it is with another. It covers the same “gaps” in Medicare.
But, the plan standardization does not stop there. In addition to being the exact same coverage and providing the same benefits, all Medigap plans also work the same way. They are all non-network plans that can be used at any doctor/hospital that takes Medicare. Moreover, they all pay claims through the Medicare “crossover” system, which is Medicare’s electronic system for paying claims to the medical providers that requires no patient involvement or paper claims.
So, once you understand that you are buying a “commodity” product, how do you determine the best Medigap insurance company for your area? $$$$ That’s right – it’s all about the money!
Since the plans are standardized, the primary (some would say only) factor you should be considering when comparing Medigap plans is the premium that a company charges for the plan that you want. The best Medigap plans are also the lowest priced Medigap plans. And, the best Medigap insurance companies are the ones that charge the best rates for the standardized (same exact coverage) plans. Premiums can vary considerably from different companies, as much as $100 for the same exact plan. You have to do your homework on this and not jump on the first piece of direct mail you receive or first advice from a friend who says their plan “pays all their claims” (they all do).
Medigap Plan Comparison Chart (2026)
| Plan | Part A Coinsurance | Part B Coinsurance | Part B Deductible | Excess Charges | Foreign Travel | Typical Premium Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plan G | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | 80% | $110–$220/month |
| Plan N | Yes | Yes (copays may apply) | No | No | 80% | $90–$180/month |
| High Deductible Plan G | Yes (after deductible) | Yes (after deductible) | No | Yes | 80% | $45–$80/month |
| Plan A | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | $75–$150/month |
Source: Medicare.gov
Premiums vary considerably by age, state, carrier, and underwriting eligibility.
Compare Plan G
Compare Plan N
High Deductible G details
Medigap Insurance Companies
Medigap underwriting guide
Compare Medigap Plans: Coverage
When you are looking at the prices, note that there are actually 10 different standardized Medigap plans. However, the three most common are Plan F (most comprehensive), Plan G (usually the best “deal”) and Plan N (lower premium, lower coverage). Those are the three Medigap plans that most companies choose to offer. It is crucial to understand these and compare Medigap plans on an “apples to apples” basis.
The first step is deciding where you want to fit in that spectrum of coverage choices. Comparing Plan F and Plan G is very easy to do because there is only one coverage difference – coverage of the Medicare Part B deductible, currently $283/year (for 2026). Plan F pays all the Medicare deductibles and co-pays, whereas Plan G does not cover this Part B deductible but does cover everything else not covered by Medicare. So, if the premium savings on ‘G’, as compared to ‘F’ premiums, are greater than $20/month, you would come out better on ‘G’ than ‘F’. NOTE: Plan F is not available to you if you turned 65 or started on Medicare after 1/1/2020.
You may think Plan N is the right Medigap plan for you, and it very well may be if you are in good health with limited doctor visits annually. Plan N is always a lower-premium option, but it does have some cost-sharing (i.e. co-pays).
Aside from the three common plans – Plans F, G and N – there are also other Medigap plans. While these are not commonly offered in most states, it is a good idea to take a look to see if one of those options would also be a good “deal” for you.
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When choosing a Medigap plan, always keep in mind that your initial selection is not permanent. You can change plans at any time for any reason, and there is not an annual enrollment period for this type of coverage (only for Medicare Part D). However, it is crucial to understand that you do have to “qualify medically” to change plans or companies at a later time.
State-Specific Differences in Medigap Plans
Most states follow the standardized letter system described above. However, three states have different structures:
Additionally, some states have special rules — such as birthday rules or annual switching rights — that allow beneficiaries to change plans without underwriting.
Because Medigap regulations vary by state, comparing plans within your specific location is essential.
How Insurance Companies Price Medigap Plans
Even though Medigap benefits are standardized, insurance companies use different pricing models. Understanding this is critical when comparing plans.
There are three main pricing methods:
Issue-Age Rated
Your premium is based on your age when you purchase the policy. It does not increase automatically as you age (though inflation adjustments can still occur).
Attained-Age Rated
Your premium is based on your current age and increases automatically as you get older, in addition to any general rate adjustments.
Community Rated
Everyone in the same geographic area pays the same premium regardless of age.
The pricing method can significantly impact long-term affordability — especially if you plan to keep your coverage for many years.
However, it is also important to understand that this is very state-specific. Some states only allow certain pricing methodologies to be used, whereas other states leave it up to the companies completely. Because of this, you cannot always “choose” the pricing methodology of your Medigap plan.
How Much Do Medigap Plans Cost in 2026?
Medigap plan premiums vary based on:
- Age
- Gender (in some states)
- Tobacco status
- ZIP code
- Carrier pricing model
- Underwriting eligibility
In 2026, typical monthly premium ranges may include:
- Plan G: $110–$220
- Plan N: $90–$180
- High Deductible Plan G: $45–$80
Because benefits are standardized, the primary difference between companies is price and long-term rate stability. It is important to note that the above figures are estimates/ranges and Medigap premiums vary considerably based on the factors listed above.
When Can You Enroll in a Medigap Plan?
The most favorable time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This begins when:
- You are age 65 or older
- You are enrolled in Medicare Part B
During this six-month window, insurance companies generally cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to health conditions.
Outside of this period, you may be subject to medical underwriting unless you qualify for special guaranteed issue rights.
Understanding enrollment timing is one of the most important factors when choosing a Medigap plan.
Getting Rates for the Best Medigap Plan for You
So, we’ve now established that you need to compare rates on to find the best Medigap plan for your specific situation. And, how do you go about doing that? There are two options – first, you can get a list of insurance companies that do Medigap plans in your state and either call them on search them out online to talk to a specific agent for that company and attempt to get the rates. Remember, you can determine the best Medigap insurance companies by comparing rates to see who has the best “deal”. But, does calling 40+ insurance companies or agents sound fun? Easy?
The second option, which is more advisable, is to use an independent Medigap broker to help you compare the Medigap plans. This does not cost you anything. And, a true independent broker works with all the available companies in your state, so they can give you all the options in a centralized place and answer your questions in an unbiased way.
So besides the premium rates, what else should you look at when looking for the best Medigap plan from the best Medigap insurance company? A secondary factor to look at is the reputation, or rating, of the insurance company itself. A broker should be able to provide this information, as well as personal anecdotes about the company’s rate increase history and track record of stability.
Now, 65Medicare.org can help you compare Medigap plans. We’ve helped tens of thousands of people turning 65 over the last 10 years do just that. But, whether it is us or someone else, it is highly recommended to use an independent broker to compare plans and find the best Medigap plan for your specific situation and needs.
Best Medigap Plans 2026
Each year, Medigap rates change. As previously discussed, the best Medigap plans for 2026 are the plans with the lowest rates. The premium rates for Medigap plans are and should be the primary factor in choosing a Medigap plan. So, when rates change, your should “shop” to see which are the optimal Medigap plans for your specific area.
In addition to the Medigap premiums potentially changing annually, the Medicare deductibles and coinsurance structures can also change from year to year. When they do, some of the Medigap plans are affected as well. If your plan does cover the Medicare Part B deductible (i.e. Plan F), the rates for your plan may go up or change as a result of that change to the Medicare deductible.
Medigap Plan G
One of the most common and popular plans over the last few years has been Medigap Plan G. Plan G is a great option, and in many cases, is the best deal among the different Medigap plans. But is it the top Medigap plan?
That depends on the rate spread between Plan G and Plan F really. The current Medicare Part B deductible for 2026 is $283/year. That is the benefit that is not covered under Plan G and the only out of pocket cost associated with Plan G. So in other words, if the premium savings on Plan G vs. Plan F is greater than $283/year, then Plan G would be a better option than Plan F. In most situations, this is the case. However, you should always compare specific companies/rates for your area when you are comparing Medigap plans.
Which Medigap Plan Fits You?
Choosing the right Medigap plan depends on how you use healthcare and how predictable you want your costs to be.
Step 1: Do you want almost zero surprise bills?
- Yes → Plan G
You’ll pay the Medicare Part B deductible once per year, then almost everything Medicare approves is covered. No copays for office visits. No excess charges. - No → Go to Step 2
Step 2: Are you okay paying small copays to lower your monthly premium?
- Yes → Plan N
Lower monthly premium than Plan G. You may pay up to $20 for doctor visits and up to $50 for ER visits. Does not cover excess charges. - No → Plan G
Step 3: Are you healthy and rarely visit doctors?
- Yes → High-Deductible Plan G
Very low monthly premium, but you must meet a large annual deductible before coverage kicks in. - No → Plan G or Plan N
Quick Summary
- Plan G: Best for predictable costs and peace of mind.
- Plan N: Best for healthy individuals comfortable with small copays.
- High-Deductible G: Best for rarely-used coverage with maximum premium savings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medigap Plans
What is the most popular Medigap plan?
Plan G is currently the most popular Medigap plan nationwide because it offers nearly complete coverage after you pay the Medicare Part B deductible. It provides predictable costs and no doctor visit copays.
Is Plan G better than Plan N?
Plan G provides more comprehensive coverage because it covers Part B excess charges and has no office visit copays. Plan N has a lower monthly premium but includes small copays and does not cover excess charges.
What is the downside of Plan N?
Plan N does not cover Medicare Part B excess charges and includes copays for doctor and emergency room visits. While premiums are lower, some out-of-pocket costs may apply.
What is High-Deductible Plan G?
High-Deductible Plan G offers the same benefits as Plan G, but you must meet a large annual deductible before coverage begins. It typically has a much lower monthly premium.
Do all Medigap plans have the same coverage?
Yes. Medigap plans are standardized by the federal government. A Plan G from one company provides the exact same medical coverage as Plan G from another company. The difference is price and company reputation.
Can I be denied a Medigap plan?
You cannot be denied during your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period when you first enroll in Medicare Part B. Outside of that window, medical underwriting may apply in most states.
Do Medigap plans cover prescriptions?
No. Medigap plans do not include prescription drug coverage. You must enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan for medications.
Can I switch Medigap plans later?
In most states, switching plans later requires medical underwriting unless you qualify for a special enrollment right. Some states have additional protections.
Are Medigap premiums the same everywhere?
No. Premiums vary by state, zip code, age, gender, tobacco status, and pricing method (attained-age, issue-age, or community-rated).
Is Medigap better than Medicare Advantage?
Medigap generally offers broader provider access and more predictable costs, while Medicare Advantage often has lower upfront premiums but network restrictions and prior authorization rules.
If you have questions about any of this or would like a customized list of the plans available to you, so that you can pick out the best Medigap plan, you can contact us at 877.506.3378 or here: Medigap quotes.
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65Medicare.org is a leading, independent Medicare insurance agency for people turning 65 and going on Medicare. We have worked with 15,000+ Medicare-eligible individuals over the last 18+ years, assisting with understanding and comparing the plans. You can contact us online or call us at 877.506.3378.
*Last Updated: February 19, 2026
*Sources Used: Medicare.gov, CMS.gov