Medicare Supplement Plans 2026: Medigap Coverage & Costs
Original Medicare covers a lot — but not everything. Deductibles, copays, and coinsurance add up fast. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans fill those gaps. This guide explains every plan, costs, and how to choose the right one during Open Enrollment.
What Is Medigap?
Private insurance that works alongside Original Medicare (Parts A + B). It pays for costs Medicare doesn't: Part A deductible, Part B deductible, copayments, coinsurance, and sometimes foreign travel emergencies. Medigap does NOT cover prescription drugs (need Part D separately), dental, vision, or long-term care.
Medigap Plans Explained
Plan A: Basic coverage (Part A coinsurance, Part B coinsurance, blood, hospice). Plan B: Plan A + Part A deductible. Plan C: Comprehensive (includes Part B deductible) — only for those eligible before 2020. Plan D: Similar to C minus Part B deductible. Plan F: Most comprehensive — only for pre-2020 eligible. Plan G: Most popular now — covers everything except Part B deductible. Plan K: 50% cost-sharing, out-of-pocket limit. Plan L: 75% cost-sharing. Plan M: 50% Part A deductible. Plan N: Lower premiums, small copays ($20 office, $50 ER). High-Deductible G/F: Lower premiums, $2,870 deductible (2026).
Costs in 2026
Plan G: $120-$250/month (varies by state, age, insurer). Plan N: $90-$180/month. Plan A: $80-$150/month. High-Deductible G: $30-$70/month. Pricing methods: Community-rated (same for all), Issue-age-rated (based on age at purchase), Attained-age-rated (increases with age). Compare carefully — same plan letter = same benefits, different price.
Open Enrollment Period
Your Medigap Open Enrollment: 6 months starting when you're 65+ AND enrolled in Part B. During this window, insurers CANNOT deny you or charge more for pre-existing conditions (guaranteed issue). After this window, insurers can use medical underwriting — you may be denied or charged more. Don't miss this window.
How to Choose
- Assess health needs (frequent doctor visits? chronic conditions?).
- Compare Plan G vs N (most popular; G = more coverage, N = lower premiums).
- Compare prices from 3+ insurers (same benefits, different prices).
- Check pricing method (community-rated often best long-term).
- Verify insurer financial strength (AM Best).
- Enroll during Open Enrollment window.
Common Mistakes
- Missing Open Enrollment window (underwriting after).
- Choosing plan by price alone (check pricing method).
- Confusing Medigap with Medicare Advantage (different programs).
- Not adding Part D (Medigap doesn't cover drugs).
- Staying in wrong plan for years (review annually).
The Bottom Line
Medigap provides predictable healthcare costs in retirement. Plan G is the most comprehensive widely available; Plan N saves money if you're comfortable with small copays. Enroll during your Open Enrollment window — it's your one guaranteed chance.
Disclaimer: Informational only, not insurance advice. Consult a licensed Medicare agent for your situation.
