Insurance Curator Choosing the right Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan is one of the most important financial decisions for seniors turning 65. This guide compares the top Medigap plans (Plan G, Plan N, and legacy Plan F), shows typical premium ranges across major U.S. cities, profiles leading insurers, and gives practical tips for choosing a carrier based on ratings, finances, and costs.
Why Medigap matters for seniors 65+
Medigap plans help cover Medicare Part A and Part B cost-sharing (deductibles, coinsurance, and some out-of-pocket costs) so seniors can better predict health spending. Unlike Medicare Advantage, Medigap works with Original Medicare and generally lets you see any provider that accepts Medicare.
- Predictable out-of-pocket costs — fewer surprise bills.
- Nationwide provider access — ideal for snowbirds or frequent travelers.
- Plan standardization — same benefits for each plan letter across insurers (varies only by price and rating).
For a direct comparison between Medigap and Medicare Advantage, see: Medicare Supplement vs Medicare Advantage—Which Is Best?
Quick overview: Plan G vs Plan N vs Plan F (legacy)
Below is a concise comparison of key Medigap options seniors commonly consider.
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N | Plan F (closed to new enrollees since 2020) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medicare Part A coinsurance + hospital costs | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Medicare Part B coinsurance/coinsurance gaps | Covered (except Part B deductible) | Covered (some copays for office/ED) | Covered (including Part B deductible) |
| Part B deductible | Not covered (you pay) | Not covered | Covered |
| Emergency foreign travel (limited) | Covered | Covered | Covered |
| Typical monthly premium (approx. US ranges) | $110–$350 (varies by state/age) | $90–$260 | $140–$400 (no new buyers since 1/1/2020) |
| Best when | Want comprehensive coverage, lower claims risk | Want lower premiums, willing to accept small copays | Historically the most complete (not available to new enrollees) |
Sources for plan definitions and rule changes: Medicare.gov and Kaiser Family Foundation. See Medicare.gov Medigap basics: https://www.medicare.gov/supplements-other-insurance/medigap and KFF’s Medigap issue brief: https://www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medigap-supplemental-insurance/
Typical premium examples by city (estimates)
Medigap premiums vary widely by insurer, zip code, age, gender, tobacco use, and pricing method. The table below shows approximate 2024 market averages derived from industry pricing surveys and quote aggregators (use as planning estimates; get live quotes for decisions).
| City (State) | Plan G monthly (est.) | Plan N monthly (est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Boston, MA | $200–$350 | $160–$270 |
| Miami, FL | $180–$320 | $140–$240 |
| Phoenix, AZ | $120–$220 | $100–$180 |
| Chicago, IL | $140–$260 | $110–$200 |
Sources: aggregated market pricing from eHealth and industry reports (https://www.ehealthinsurance.com/medicare/medigap), plus KFF analysis. Actual quotes will depend on insurer and underwriting.
Top Medigap providers and what they’re known for
Below are leading insurers commonly offering Medigap across U.S. markets, with typical strengths and considerations.
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Blue Cross Blue Shield (state plans)
- Strengths: Large local networks, strong brand recognition, broad regional availability.
- Consideration: Often mid-to-higher premiums in expensive states.
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Mutual of Omaha
- Strengths: Competitive pricing on Plan G and strong Medigap expertise.
- Consideration: State availability varies.
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Cigna
- Strengths: Competitive pricing in select states and nationwide support.
- Consideration: Price can vary significantly by state.
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Aetna
- Strengths: Large national presence and good customer service ratings.
- Consideration: May bundle discounts if you have other Aetna products.
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Humana
- Strengths: Cross-sell opportunities with Part D and Medicare Advantage products.
- Consideration: Medigap availability limited in some states.
Always compare quotes from multiple companies — the same plan letter can price very differently across insurers in the same zip code. Aggregator sources (like eHealth) show market trends and average price ranges: https://www.ehealthinsurance.com/medicare/medigap
Provider ratings: what to check
Selecting a financially stable, well-rated insurer is as important as the premium.
- Financial strength — check A.M. Best or Fitch ratings (A or better recommended) to ensure the company can pay future claims.
- Complaint Index / NAIC data — reveals customer service and claims patterns in your state.
- Customer satisfaction — J.D. Power and BBB reviews provide service trends.
- Local agent and claims handling — responsiveness matters after enrollment.
Tip: Before buying, search “[Insurer name] AM Best rating” and check the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) complaint index for your state.
How to choose between Plan G and Plan N (practical steps)
- Estimate annual out-of-pocket: Compare Plan G (higher premium, minimal out-of-pocket aside from Part B deductible) vs Plan N (lower premium + occasional $20 office copays and $50 ED copays).
- Calculate break-even: Multiply premium difference by 12 — if your expected medical use would cost more than that in copays, Plan G likely saves money.
- Check budget volatility: If you prefer predictable monthly expenses and avoid sudden bills, Plan G is often ideal. If on a fixed income and healthy, Plan N can save premium dollars. See tips for seniors on fixed incomes: Best Insurance For Seniors on a Fixed Income: Ways to Lower Premiums Across Policy Types
Buying tips and timing
- Best time to buy: Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (six months starting the month you’re 65 and enrolled in Part B) usually gives guaranteed issue rights with no medical underwriting. Outside this window, insurers can deny coverage or charge higher rates for health conditions.
- Shop annually: Premiums change; new competition or state pricing adjustments can reduce costs if you switch.
- Get multiple written quotes — compare identical plan letters, not just “Medigap” generically.
- Beware of bundling pressure — agents may push Medicare Advantage or Part D; ensure objective comparison.
Final checklist before enrolling
- Confirm you’re eligible and enroll during your guaranteed issue period if possible.
- Compare at least 3 carrier quotes for the same plan letter in your zip code.
- Check the insurer’s A.M. Best rating and NAIC complaint index.
- Decide whether predictable costs (Plan G) or lower premiums with some copays (Plan N) fits your health use and cash flow.
For deeper guidance on pairing Medigap with Part D or other coverages, see: Best Insurance For Seniors to Cover Prescription Drug Costs: Part D and Extra Help Programs
Sources:
- Medicare.gov — Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) overview: https://www.medicare.gov/supplements-other-insurance/medigap
- eHealth — Medigap product and pricing overview: https://www.ehealthinsurance.com/medicare/medigap
- Kaiser Family Foundation — Medigap supplemental insurance issue brief: https://www.kff.org/medicare/issue-brief/medigap-supplemental-insurance/