Medicare Supplement Plan G is the most popular Medigap plan in America, and for good reason. It covers nearly everything Original Medicare does not, leaving you responsible for just one out-of-pocket cost: the annual Part B deductible ($257 in 2026). If you are turning 65, already on Medicare, or helping a parent navigate coverage options, this guide covers what Plan G pays for, what it costs, how it compares to Plans F and N, and how to enroll.
Talk to a licensed Medicare advisor today to compare Plan G rates in your state.
What Is Medicare Supplement Plan G?
Medicare Supplement Plan G (also called Medigap Plan G) is a private insurance policy that works alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B). It fills the “gaps” in Medicare coverage by paying for costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles that Original Medicare does not fully cover.
Plan G is standardized by the federal government. That means every Plan G policy offers the exact same benefits, regardless of which insurance company sells it. The only difference between carriers is the monthly premium and customer service. This standardization makes it straightforward to compare policies and find the best value.
Since Medicare Plan F closed to new enrollees in 2020, Plan G has become the go-to choice for people who want comprehensive Medigap coverage with minimal out-of-pocket risk.
What Does Medicare Supplement Plan G Cover?
Plan G covers all the gaps in Original Medicare except the Part B deductible. Here is a complete breakdown of what Plan G pays for:
Plan G Coverage at a Glance
| Benefit | Plan G Covers? |
|---|---|
| Part A hospital coinsurance and costs (up to 365 additional days after Medicare benefits are exhausted) | Yes, 100% |
| Part B coinsurance or copayment | Yes, 100% |
| First three pints of blood | Yes, 100% |
| Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment | Yes, 100% |
| Skilled nursing facility (SNF) coinsurance | Yes, 100% |
| Part A deductible ($1,676 in 2026) | Yes, 100% |
| Part B deductible ($257 in 2026) | No |
| Part B excess charges | Yes, 100% |
| Foreign travel emergency care (80%, up to plan limits) | Yes |
Understanding Each Covered Benefit
Part A hospital coinsurance: If you are hospitalized for more than 60 days, Medicare starts charging daily coinsurance ($446/day for days 61-90 in 2026). Plan G covers these costs in full, plus an additional 365 lifetime reserve days.
Part B coinsurance: After you meet your Part B deductible, Medicare typically pays 80% of approved services. Plan G picks up the remaining 20%, so you pay nothing for doctor visits, lab work, outpatient procedures, and other Part B services.
Skilled nursing facility coinsurance: Medicare charges $204.50/day coinsurance for days 21-100 in a skilled nursing facility. Without supplemental coverage, a 100-day stay could cost over $16,000. Plan G covers this coinsurance entirely.
Part B excess charges: If a doctor does not accept Medicare assignment, they can charge up to 15% above the Medicare-approved amount. Plan G covers these excess charges, a benefit that Plan N does not offer.
Foreign travel emergency: Original Medicare generally does not cover healthcare outside the United States. Plan G provides emergency coverage abroad, paying 80% of costs after a $250 deductible (up to a lifetime limit, typically $50,000).
How Much Does Medicare Supplement Plan G Cost?
Plan G premiums vary based on your age, location, gender, tobacco use, and the insurance company you choose. Understanding these factors helps you find the best rate.
Typical Plan G Monthly Premium Ranges (2026)
| Age | Low End | Average | High End |
|---|---|---|---|
| 65 | $90-$110 | $130-$170 | $200-$280 |
| 70 | $110-$140 | $160-$210 | $240-$340 |
| 75 | $140-$180 | $200-$260 | $300-$420 |
| 80 | $170-$220 | $250-$330 | $380-$500+ |
These ranges reflect national averages. Premiums can be significantly lower in states like Ohio, Missouri, and Indiana, and higher in states like Florida, New York, and California.
Factors That Affect Plan G Premiums
Your age: Most carriers use “attained-age” pricing, meaning your premium increases as you get older. Some states require “community-rated” pricing where everyone pays the same rate regardless of age.
Where you live: Healthcare costs vary dramatically by state and ZIP code. Urban areas with higher medical costs tend to have higher Medigap premiums.
Tobacco use: Smokers typically pay 15-25% more for Plan G coverage. Some carriers offer lower rates after a tobacco-free period.
Gender: In most states, women pay slightly lower premiums than men for the same Plan G coverage.
The insurance company: Because Plan G benefits are standardized, the only variable between carriers is price and service. Premium differences of $50-$100/month between companies for the same coverage are common, which is why comparing quotes matters.
Your Total Annual Out-of-Pocket Cost with Plan G
With Plan G, your maximum annual out-of-pocket exposure is predictable:
- Part B deductible: $257 (2026). This is the only Medicare gap Plan G does not cover.
- Plan G monthly premium: Varies by carrier and location (see table above).
- Part B premium: $185/month standard in 2026 (paid to Medicare, not your Medigap insurer).
For a 65-year-old paying an average Plan G premium of $150/month, the total annual cost is approximately $2,314 ($150 x 12 + $257 + $257 Part B deductible). After that, Plan G covers virtually all Medicare-approved expenses with no surprise bills, no copays, and no network restrictions.
Plan G vs. Plan F: Which Is Better?
Plan F was once the most popular Medigap option because it covers everything, including the Part B deductible. However, Plan F closed to new enrollees after January 1, 2020 (under the MACRA legislation). Only people who became eligible for Medicare before 2020 can still purchase Plan F.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Plan G | Plan F |
|---|---|---|
| Part A deductible | Covered | Covered |
| Part B deductible | Not covered | Covered |
| Part B coinsurance | Covered (100%) | Covered (100%) |
| Part B excess charges | Covered | Covered |
| SNF coinsurance | Covered | Covered |
| Foreign travel emergency | Covered | Covered |
| Available to new enrollees? | Yes | No (pre-2020 only) |
| Typical monthly premium | $130-$170 | $180-$250+ |
Why Plan G Is Often the Better Value
The only difference between Plan G and Plan F is that Plan F covers the $257 Part B deductible. But Plan F premiums are typically $40-$80/month higher than Plan G. Over a year, that premium difference ($480-$960) far exceeds the $257 deductible you would save.
Additionally, because Plan F is a shrinking pool (no new enrollees since 2020), its premiums tend to increase faster over time as the insured population ages. Plan G’s larger, younger risk pool helps keep premium growth more stable.
Plan G vs. Plan N: Key Differences
Plan N is the budget-friendly alternative to Plan G. It has lower premiums but comes with two trade-offs:
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part B coinsurance | Covered (100%) | Covered (with copays up to $20 for office visits, $50 for ER) |
| Part B excess charges | Covered | Not covered |
| Part B deductible | Not covered | Not covered |
| All other benefits | Same | Same |
| Typical monthly premium | $130-$170 | $90-$130 |
Plan N can save you $30-$50/month in premiums. However, if you see doctors frequently or use specialists who do not accept Medicare assignment, Plan G’s fuller coverage may save you money in the long run. Plan N’s copays and potential excess charges can add up.
Bottom line: Choose Plan G if you want maximum predictability and minimal out-of-pocket costs. Choose Plan N if you are healthy, see doctors infrequently, and want a lower monthly premium.
Plan G vs. Medicare Advantage: A Different Approach
Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medigap Plan G take fundamentally different approaches to Medicare coverage:
- Plan G + Original Medicare: See any doctor who accepts Medicare nationwide (no network). Predictable costs with minimal out-of-pocket exposure. Higher monthly premiums but rarely any bills at the point of service.
- Medicare Advantage: Often $0 premiums with extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing). However, you must use a provider network (HMO/PPO), face copays and coinsurance at each visit, and may have annual out-of-pocket maximums of $5,000-$8,000+.
If you value freedom to see any doctor, travel frequently, or want the lowest possible out-of-pocket risk, Plan G is typically the stronger choice. If you are on a tight budget, stay in one area, and want extra benefits like dental and vision, Medicare Advantage may be worth exploring.
Who Is Eligible for Medicare Supplement Plan G?
To enroll in Plan G, you must:
- Be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B
- Live in the plan’s service area
- Apply during an eligible enrollment period
The Best Time to Enroll: Medigap Open Enrollment Period
Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is the 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 AND are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period:
- Insurance companies cannot deny you coverage
- They cannot charge you more due to pre-existing health conditions
- You are guaranteed the best available rate
This is the single most important enrollment window for Medigap. If you miss it, insurers can medically underwrite your application, potentially charging higher rates or denying coverage based on your health history.
Other Enrollment Opportunities
Guaranteed Issue Rights: Certain life events give you the right to buy a Medigap policy without medical underwriting, including:
- Your Medicare Advantage plan leaves your area or stops offering coverage
- You lose employer group health coverage
- You had a Medigap policy and switched to Medicare Advantage, then want to switch back within 12 months (trial right)
Outside of these periods: You can still apply for Plan G at any time, but the insurer may require medical underwriting. Your health status, age, and medical history could affect your eligibility and premium.
How to Choose the Best Plan G Policy
Since all Plan G policies cover the same benefits, choosing the right one comes down to price and the insurer’s reputation.
1. Compare Premium Rates from Multiple Carriers
Plan G premiums can vary by $50-$100+ per month between carriers for the exact same coverage. Always get quotes from at least three to five companies. Major carriers offering Plan G include Mutual of Omaha, AARP/UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Humana.
2. Understand the Pricing Method
Insurance companies use one of three pricing methods:
- Community-rated (no-age-rated): Everyone pays the same premium regardless of age. Premiums start higher but increase more slowly over time.
- Issue-age-rated: Your premium is based on the age when you first buy the policy. Younger buyers get lower rates that do not increase due to aging (though they may rise due to inflation and healthcare costs).
- Attained-age-rated: Your premium is based on your current age and increases as you get older. Premiums start low but grow over time. This is the most common method.
3. Research the Insurance Company
Check the insurer’s financial strength rating (A.M. Best, Standard & Poor’s) and customer satisfaction ratings. A company with strong finances is more likely to keep premiums stable and pay claims promptly.
4. Look for Discounts
Many carriers offer discounts that can lower your Plan G premium:
- Household/spousal discount: 5-12% off when both spouses enroll
- Non-tobacco discount: Lower rates for non-smokers
- Annual payment discount: Small savings for paying annually instead of monthly
- Electronic funds transfer (EFT) discount: Lower rates for automatic bank drafts
How to Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan G
Enrolling in Plan G is straightforward, especially with guidance from a licensed Medicare advisor:
- Confirm your Medicare status: You need active Medicare Part A and Part B coverage.
- Compare quotes: Get rate comparisons from multiple carriers in your state.
- Complete the application: Fill out the Medigap application with your chosen insurer. During your OEP, no medical questions are required.
- Choose your start date: Coverage can begin as early as the first day of the next month.
- Cancel any existing coverage (if applicable): If switching from Medicare Advantage, your MA plan ends when your Medigap policy starts.
An independent Medicare advisor can walk you through this entire process at no cost to you. Advisors are compensated by the insurance companies, so their guidance does not increase your premium.
Top Insurance Companies Offering Plan G in 2026
While Plan G benefits are identical across carriers, these companies are among the most popular nationwide:
| Company | A.M. Best Rating | Known For |
|---|---|---|
| Mutual of Omaha | A+ | Competitive rates, strong claims processing |
| AARP/UnitedHealthcare | A+ | Brand recognition, household discounts |
| Aetna | A | Broad availability, value pricing |
| Cigna | A | Innovative pricing, digital tools |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield | Varies by state | Strong local networks, state-specific options |
The “best” company depends on your state, age, and health status. Rates from the same carrier can vary dramatically between states.
High-Deductible Plan G: A Budget Alternative
If you want Plan G benefits at a lower monthly cost, consider High-Deductible Plan G (HD Plan G). With this option:
- You pay a higher annual deductible ($2,870 in 2026) before the plan begins paying
- Monthly premiums are significantly lower, often $30-$60/month
- After meeting the deductible, coverage is identical to standard Plan G
HD Plan G works best for healthy individuals who rarely use medical services and want catastrophic protection at a low monthly cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plan G
Does Plan G cover the Part B deductible?
No. The Part B deductible ($257 in 2026) is the one Medicare gap that Plan G does not cover. You pay this once per year before Plan G’s Part B coinsurance coverage kicks in. This is the only difference between Plan G and the discontinued Plan F.
Is Plan G the same no matter which company I buy it from?
Yes. Plan G benefits are standardized by federal law. Every Plan G policy covers the same things. The only differences between carriers are the monthly premium, customer service experience, and claims processing speed.
Can I see any doctor with Plan G?
Yes. Plan G works with Original Medicare, which has no provider networks. You can see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare patients, anywhere in the country, without referrals.
Does Plan G cover prescription drugs?
No. No Medigap plan covers prescription drugs. You need a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan for medication coverage.
When is the best time to sign up for Plan G?
During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B. This is when you get guaranteed acceptance at the lowest rates. Learn more about the turning 65 enrollment timeline.
Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Plan G?
Yes, but timing matters. You can switch during certain periods, but outside of your initial Medigap OEP, you may need to pass medical underwriting. Some exceptions apply, including a 12-month trial right if you switched to Medicare Advantage within your first year of Medicare eligibility.
Are all Plan G premiums going up every year?
Most Plan G premiums increase annually due to healthcare inflation and (with attained-age pricing) your age. Typical increases range from 3-8% per year. Shopping and comparing rates periodically can help you find better deals.
Is Plan G worth the cost?
For most Medicare beneficiaries who want comprehensive coverage with predictable costs, Plan G offers the best value among Medigap plans available to new enrollees. The peace of mind of knowing your maximum out-of-pocket cost is $257/year (plus premiums) is worth the monthly premium for many people.
The Bottom Line on Medicare Supplement Plan G
Medicare Supplement Plan G provides the most comprehensive Medigap coverage available to anyone newly eligible for Medicare. It covers everything except the annual Part B deductible, gives you the freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide, and protects you from catastrophic medical costs.
The key to getting the most value from Plan G is enrolling during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period and comparing rates from multiple carriers. Because benefits are identical across companies, the smartest move is finding the most competitive premium for your age, location, and health profile.