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Medigap Policies Navigator

Medicare Supplement insurance explained — Plan G vs. Plan N, when to buy, and how to save.

Built by a former SSA District Manager
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Let's start here

What's your situation right now?

Pick the one that best describes where you are. We'll take you step-by-step from there.

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Urgent Action Needed

Turning 65 soon or in Medigap Open Enrollment

⏰ Time-sensitive: This is your Medigap Open Enrollment period — the best time to get a policy without health screening.

Here's your timeline for action:

  • 1

    Understand Your Needs

    Evaluate your healthcare preferences and budget. Knowing what you need is crucial before comparing plans.

  • 2

    Research and Compare Plans

    Use online tools to compare different Medigap plans. Pay special attention to Plan G and Plan N.

  • 3

    Contact Insurance Companies

    Find insurers in your area that offer the plan you need at a competitive rate.

Insider Tip from Dr. Ed
Your Open Enrollment is a one-time opportunity. After this, insurance companies can charge more or deny coverage based on your health.
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Addressing Concerns

Unhappy with Your Current Medigap Plan

Concerned about costs or coverage? You have options to explore for improving your situation.

Possible actions to consider:

1
Plan Comparison
Compare other Medigap plans. Prices and coverage can differ significantly, even for the same plan letter.
2
Consider Financial Assistance
Check into programs that help cover costs, such as Medicaid or the Medicare Savings Program.
Insider Tip from Dr. Ed
If you've had your Medigap plan for more than six months, you may need to go through medical underwriting to switch plans.
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Future Planning

Want to Learn About Medigap for the Future

Here’s how you can set yourself up for success:

1
Learn about Medigap Plans
Understand the differences between plans, especially popular ones like Plan G and Plan N.
2
Prepare Financially
Consider your potential healthcare needs and save accordingly for premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.
Insider Tip from Dr. Ed
Plan for rising healthcare costs. Medigap premiums may increase with age and inflation.
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Learning About Medigap

Just Want to Understand Medigap Basics

Here are some important aspects to know:

Medigap is Medicare Supplement Insurance that helps fill "gaps" in Original Medicare, covering some of the costs not covered by Medicare like copayments and deductibles.
You pay a monthly premium to a private insurance company, and in return, the policy covers costs like copays and deductibles left by Original Medicare.
Plan G covers more out-of-pocket costs than Plan N, but typically has a higher premium. Plan N often includes copays for doctor visits and ER visits.
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Next Steps

Where to Go From Here

  • 1

    Keep Current

    Stay up-to-date on Medicare changes and how they affect Medigap policies.

  • 2

    Regular Reviews

    Review your current plan annually during Open Enrollment to see if it still meets your needs.

  • 3

    Seek Guidance

    Consider consulting a Medicare counselor or insurance advisor for personalized advice.

Insider Tip from Dr. Ed
Maintaining a good understanding of your policy and available options ensures you get the most out of your Medigap coverage.
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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but depending on your state, you may need to go through medical underwriting unless you're within your Open Enrollment Period or have a guaranteed issue right.
Medigap can cover costs such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that Original Medicare doesn't cover.
No, Medigap policies cannot be used to pay for costs you incur under a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C).
Medigap premiums are not generally tax-deductible. Consult a tax advisor for personal advice.
Medigap Policies Navigator — a free tool from 24help.org
Built by Dr. Ed Weir, former SSA District Manager
Educational resource only. Not legal advice. Always verify with SSA at 1-800-772-1213.