Medicare Supplement Plans
May 20, 2026
Medicare Supplement — where it fits.
How "Medigap" plans pair with Original Medicare, the lettered plans, and when you can buy without underwriting.
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What is Medigap and how is it different from Medicare Advantage?
Medigap supplements Original Medicare — you still have Original Medicare and can see any provider that accepts it. Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a private network plan. You cannot have both at the same time.
Which Medigap plan is most popular?
Plan G is the most comprehensive plan available to new enrollees (the only gap left is the Part B deductible). Plan N is a lower-premium option that uses small copays at the doctor and ER. Plan F is still in force for people eligible before 2020.
When should I buy a Medigap policy?
Your one-time Medigap Open Enrollment Period starts the month you are 65 and enrolled in Part B and lasts 6 months. During that window, you have guaranteed-issue rights — insurers cannot deny you or charge more for health reasons.
Does Medigap cover prescription drugs?
No. Medigap plans sold today do not include drug coverage. You add a separate Medicare Part D plan, or risk a late-enrollment penalty if you go 63+ days without creditable drug coverage.
Do all insurers charge the same for the same Medigap letter?
No. The benefits inside Plan G (for example) are identical across insurers because they are standardized — but the monthly premium varies. It is worth comparing several insurers in your state.
What Medigap is
Medigap plans are sold by private insurers and pay your share of cost after Original Medicare pays its share. They are standardized lettered plans (Plan G, Plan N, Plan F for some grandfathered enrollees). Within each letter, benefits are identical across carriers — only the premium and customer service differ.
Key timing rule
You typically have a one-time Medigap Open Enrollment Period that begins the month you are 65 and enrolled in Part B. During that window, carriers cannot use medical underwriting to deny or surcharge you. Outside that window, rules vary by state.
What Medigap does not include
Medigap does not include Part D prescription drug coverage. If you go the Medigap route, you typically pair it with a standalone Part D plan.