Medigap (Medicare Supplement) — Video
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) — Simple Guide
Medigap helps pay the part Medicare doesn’t—like deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. You keep Original Medicare and can see any doctor who accepts Medicare, nationwide.
How Medigap works
- You stay on Original Medicare (Parts A & B).
- Medigap pays part of your share after Medicare pays.
- No networks: use any provider that takes Medicare.
- You usually add a separate Part D drug plan.
Why people choose Medigap
- Predictable costs (low bills when you get care).
- Freedom to see specialists—no referrals.
- Travel-friendly: works anywhere Medicare is accepted.
What Medigap doesn’t cover
- Prescription drugs (get a Part D plan)
- Routine dental, vision, or hearing; gym perks
- Long-term care
Popular plans at a glance
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part A coinsurance & hospital costs | ✔ | ✔ |
| Part B coinsurance | ✔ | ✔ (office copay up to $20; ER up to $50) |
| Part B deductible | ✖ | ✖ |
| Part B excess charges | ✔ | ✖ |
| Foreign travel emergency (limits apply) | ✔ | ✔ |
Plans with the same letter have the same core benefits, no matter the company. Premiums vary by carrier and age.
When to enroll
- Medigap Open Enrollment: first 6 months you’re 65+ and have Part B. Best time—no health questions in most states.
- Later: you can apply anytime, but health questions may apply and approval isn’t guaranteed. Some special rights can apply after certain changes.
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage (quick view)
- Medigap: higher monthly premium; very low costs when you use care; no networks.
- Medicare Advantage: lower premium; copays as you go; networks/prior auth; has an annual out-of-pocket max.
Get local, licensed help
We’ll check your doctors, prescriptions, and budget and show simple options—no pressure.
Disclosures
We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to the plans we do offer in your area. Contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY: 1-877-486-2048) 24/7 to get information on all your options.
Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Enrollment in any plan depends on contract renewal.