6 Best Medicare Supplemental Insurance Co's Compared

Here’s something that might surprise you about Medigap: a Plan G from one company offers the exact same basic benefits as a Plan G from another. The federal government standardizes the plans, which simplifies your decision in one way but complicates it in another. Your choice isn’t really about the plan’s coverage details; it’s about the company you partner with. The monthly premium, history of rate increases, and customer service record can vary dramatically from one provider to the next. Finding a reliable medicare supplemental insurance co is the key to long-term satisfaction. We’ll show you exactly what to look for.

Key Takeaways

Choose the Right Company, Not Just the Plan: Since Medigap benefits are standardized, your focus should be on comparing insurance companies. Look at their premium stability, financial ratings, and customer service to find a reliable partner for your healthcare.
Your Initial Enrollment Period Is Key: The best time to buy a Medigap plan is during your one-time, six-month Open Enrollment Period. This window guarantees you can get any plan without medical underwriting, securing the best coverage at the best price.
Remember to Cover Your Prescriptions: Medigap plans are designed to supplement Original Medicare and do not include prescription drug coverage. You will need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan to help pay for your medications.

What Is Medigap Insurance?

If you have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), you know it covers a lot of your healthcare costs, but not everything. Those leftover expenses—like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance—are often called the “gaps” in Medicare coverage. This is where Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, comes in.

Think of Medigap as a supporting player to your main Medicare coverage. It’s extra insurance you can buy from a private health insurance company to help pay for your share of those out-of-pocket costs. While private companies sell these plans, the federal government standardizes them. This means that a Medigap Plan G from one company must offer the same basic benefits as a Plan G from another company. The main differences you’ll find are in the monthly premium and the company’s customer service. Having a Medigap policy can give you more predictable healthcare costs, which brings peace of mind when you’re managing a budget in retirement.

What Does a Medigap Plan Cover?

A Medigap plan is designed to help with the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t pay for. These plans help cover your out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, copays, and coinsurance for services covered under Medicare Part A and Part B. For example, a Medigap policy could cover the 20% coinsurance for doctor visits or the daily copayment for a skilled nursing facility stay. The specific costs a plan covers depend on which standardized Medigap plan you choose. Each plan is identified by a letter (like Plan A, G, or N), and each offers a different level of coverage for those “gaps.”

How Medigap Works with Original Medicare

To get a Medigap policy, you first need to be enrolled in Original Medicare, which means you must have both Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance). Medigap policies work directly with Medicare. When you receive medical care, Medicare pays its approved amount for the service first. Then, your Medigap plan steps in to pay its share, which is typically the remaining out-of-pocket cost that Medicare didn’t cover. This process is usually seamless, as your provider bills both Medicare and your Medigap insurer directly. You just pay your monthly Medigap premium to the private insurance company.

Clearing Up Common Medigap Myths

There’s a lot of information out there, and it’s easy to get confused. Let’s clear up a couple of common myths. First, a Medigap policy only covers one person. If you and your spouse both want Medigap coverage, you’ll each need to buy a separate policy. Second, Medigap plans sold today do not include prescription drug coverage. If you want help paying for your medications, you’ll need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan. Choosing a Medigap plan doesn’t automatically cover your prescriptions, so it’s important to consider your medication needs separately.

Comparing Top Medigap Insurance Companies

When you start looking for a Medigap plan, you’ll quickly notice that dozens of private insurance companies offer them. While the government standardizes the benefits for each plan letter—meaning a Plan G from one company has the same basic benefits as a Plan G from another—the companies themselves are very different. They vary in price, customer service, financial stability, and, most importantly, how they set their rates over time. A low premium today doesn’t mean much if the company has a history of steep rate increases down the road.

Choosing the right company is just as important as choosing the right plan. You want a provider that is financially sound, has a history of fair rate increases, and offers excellent support when you need it. Some companies are household names you’ll recognize from other types of insurance, while others specialize specifically in health and senior products. To help you get a sense of the landscape, we’re going to look at some of the most reputable and popular Medigap insurance companies on the market. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it covers the major players you’re likely to encounter in your search.

The Big 65

Before we look at the insurance carriers, it’s helpful to understand our role. The Big 65 is an independent insurance agency, not an insurance company. Our job is to help you make sense of all your options without being tied to a single provider. We provide comprehensive reviews and comparisons of Medicare Supplement plans from various companies. This allows you to see how different carriers stack up on price, financial ratings, and customer service in your specific area. We do the research so you can feel confident in your decision, ensuring you find a plan that fits your healthcare needs and your budget.

AARP/UnitedHealthcare

You’ll almost certainly come across AARP in your search. The Medigap plans endorsed by AARP are underwritten by UnitedHealthcare, one of the largest health insurers in the country. This partnership is a dominant force in the market for a reason. According to ValuePenguin, AARP/UnitedHealthcare is often considered a top choice because of its competitive rates and valuable extras. These perks can include things like gym memberships and dental or vision discounts, which aren’t part of standardized Medigap plans. Their wide availability and brand recognition make them a go-to for many people turning 65.

Humana

Humana is another major player in the Medicare space, offering Medigap, Medicare Advantage, and Part D plans. They have a long-standing reputation and are frequently recognized for their quality. For instance, Forbes Health named a Humana plan as one of the best Medicare supplement options available. Customers often choose Humana for its stable rates and strong customer service record. Because they focus heavily on the Medicare market, their resources and support systems are well-tailored to the needs of seniors, making them a consistently reliable choice for Medigap coverage.

Mutual of Omaha

Mutual of Omaha has been in the insurance business for over a century and is a well-respected name, especially in the Medigap market. They are often praised for their financial strength and commitment to customer satisfaction. NerdWallet includes them among the best Medicare Supplement Insurance companies, highlighting their strong performance across plan choices, member satisfaction, and affordable prices. Many people feel comfortable choosing Mutual of Omaha because of their long history and reputation for reliability, which can provide peace of mind when it comes to healthcare coverage.

State Farm

While you might know State Farm best for home and auto insurance, they are also a significant provider of Medigap plans. Leveraging their massive network of local agents, they offer a personal touch that many people appreciate. Forbes has recognized State Farm as one of the best Medigap companies, a testament to their solid offerings and service. For those who already have other policies with State Farm or prefer to work with a local agent they know and trust, their Medigap plans are a convenient and dependable option to consider.

Wellabe

Wellabe is a newer brand name that combines the experience of several long-standing insurance companies. They are often noted for having very competitive rates, which can make them an attractive option if budget is a top concern. NerdWallet includes Wellabe in its list of top Medigap companies due to its competitive offerings. While they may not have the same level of brand recognition as some of the other carriers on this list, their focus on providing affordable Medigap plans makes them a company worth looking at when you’re comparing quotes.

A Guide to the Medigap Plan “Alphabet” (A-N)

When you first look at Medigap, you’ll see a collection of plans labeled with letters, from Plan A to Plan N. It can feel a bit like staring into a bowl of alphabet soup. The most important thing to know is that these plans are standardized by the federal government. This means that a Plan G from one insurance company must offer the same basic benefits as a Plan G from any other company. The only real differences will be the monthly premium and the company’s customer service.

This standardization makes your job a little easier. Instead of comparing the fine print of every single policy, you can focus on choosing the plan letter that best fits your healthcare needs and budget. Once you’ve decided on a plan letter, you can then compare the prices for that specific plan among different insurance companies. This approach helps you find the right coverage at the best possible price without getting lost in the details.

How Do the Plans Compare?

Medigap plans are designed to work alongside Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) to help with your out-of-pocket costs. Think of them as filling in the financial “gaps” that Medicare leaves behind. These Medicare Supplement Policies help pay for expenses like your deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Each plan letter offers a different combination of benefits. For example, some plans cover the Part A hospital deductible, while others might cover all of your Part B coinsurance. The right plan for you depends entirely on your health needs and financial situation.

Do These Plans Cover Foreign Travel?

If you love to travel or have family abroad, this is a question you’ll want to ask. The short answer is yes, some Medigap plans do offer coverage for medical emergencies that happen outside of the United States. Original Medicare typically does not cover you when you’re overseas, so this is a significant benefit. Plans C, D, F, G, M, and N all include a foreign travel emergency benefit, though they come with a lifetime limit. If seeing the world is part of your retirement plan, choosing a Medigap plan with this feature can provide valuable peace of mind.

Can I See Any Doctor I Want?

One of the biggest advantages of having a Medigap plan is the freedom it gives you. With any Medigap plan, you can go to any doctor, specialist, or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. You don’t need to worry about networks or getting a referral to see a specialist. This flexibility is a major reason why many people prefer Medigap over other options. As long as your provider is Medicare-approved, you have the freedom to choose your provider without restrictions.

Does Medigap Cover Prescriptions?

This is a point that often causes confusion, so let’s clear it up: Medigap plans sold today do not include prescription drug coverage. These policies are designed to supplement Original Medicare Parts A and B, which do not cover most outpatient prescription drugs. To get coverage for your medications, you will need to enroll in a separate, standalone Medicare Part D plan. It’s an extra step, but it ensures you have comprehensive coverage for both your medical services and your prescriptions.

What Determines Your Medigap Premium?

When you start shopping for a Medigap plan, you’ll quickly notice that the prices are all over the map. Why does one person pay a different premium than their neighbor for the exact same plan? It’s because Medigap premiums aren’t a one-size-fits-all deal. Insurance companies look at a handful of key factors to decide what your monthly rate will be. Understanding these factors can help you make sense of the quotes you receive and find a plan that fits your budget without any surprises down the road. Think of it as putting together a puzzle—each piece plays a part in forming the final picture of your premium.

How Are Premiums Priced?

Insurance companies consider several personal details when setting your Medigap premium. The most common factors include your age, gender, location, and whether you use tobacco. The specific plan you choose (for example, Plan G versus Plan N) will also have a major impact on the price. Some companies even offer household discounts if you and your spouse both enroll. It’s important to know that while the government standardizes the benefits for each Medigap plan letter, it doesn’t standardize the pricing. This is why you can get different quotes from different companies for the same exact plan.

How Your Location Affects Your Rate

Where you live is a surprisingly significant factor in what you’ll pay for a Medigap plan. Premiums can vary widely not just from state to state, but even from one zip code to the next. This is because local healthcare costs and competition among insurance providers differ across the country. For example, a Medigap plan in a major metropolitan area like New York City might cost more than the same plan in a rural part of Ohio. State regulations also play a role, as some states have specific rules that affect how insurance companies can price their plans. This geographic pricing is standard practice in the insurance industry.

The Role of Age and Health

Age is one of the biggest factors that affects Medigap premiums. In most states, the older you are, the higher your premium will be. This is because, statistically, healthcare needs tend to increase with age. Your health status also matters, especially when it comes to timing. When you first become eligible for Medicare, you have a six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. During this window, companies can’t use your health history to charge you more or deny coverage. These are your guaranteed issue rights. If you apply outside of this period, however, you may face medical underwriting, which could lead to higher premiums or even a denial.

Understanding Rate Increases

It’s important to remember that your initial Medigap premium isn’t set in stone. You should expect your rate to increase over time. These increases are typically tied to a few things. First, as you get older, your premium will likely go up each year. Second, inflation plays a big role. As the overall cost of medical care rises, insurance companies adjust their premiums to keep up. The growing number of people enrolling in Medicare can also influence rates. While rate increases are a normal part of having a Medigap plan, some companies have a history of more stable pricing than others, which is something to consider when you’re choosing a provider.

Why Prices Vary by Company

Here’s a key takeaway: for any given Medigap plan letter, the benefits are identical from one company to the next. A Plan G from Company A covers the exact same things as a Plan G from Company B. The only difference will be the premium you pay and the company’s customer service. So why the price difference? Each company has its own way of calculating risk and setting prices. Some may be more competitive in certain states or with certain age groups. This is why it is so important to compare quotes from multiple insurance carriers. You could save hundreds of dollars a year just by choosing the right company for the same standardized plan.

When and How to Enroll in Medigap

Timing is everything when it comes to enrolling in a Medigap plan. Your eligibility window is one of the most important factors in determining your options and your costs. While you can apply for a plan at almost any time, there is one specific period when you have the absolute right to buy any policy sold in your state, regardless of your health. Missing this window can make it more difficult and expensive to get coverage later on.

Understanding when to enroll helps you secure the best plan at the best price without the risk of being denied coverage. It’s a critical first step in building your Medicare coverage. Let’s walk through the key enrollment periods and rules you need to know.

Your Initial Enrollment Period

The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This period starts on the first day of the month you are both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. It is a one-time opportunity. During these six months, an insurance company cannot use medical underwriting. This means they are required to sell you any Medigap policy they offer, cannot charge you more because of past or present health problems, and cannot make you wait for coverage to start. This is your golden ticket to getting the plan you want without any health-related hurdles.

What Are Guaranteed Issue Rights?

If you miss your Initial Enrollment Period, you may still have an opportunity to buy a Medigap policy without medical questions. These situations are called guaranteed issue rights, or “Medigap protections.” These rights are granted in specific circumstances, such as if you lose your employer health coverage after turning 65 or if you move out of your Medicare Advantage Plan’s service area. When you have a guaranteed issue right, insurance companies must sell you a policy, though your choice of plans may be more limited than during your Open Enrollment Period. It’s important to know if you qualify for one of these special enrollment windows.

How Pre-existing Conditions Affect Enrollment

Many people worry that a pre-existing condition will prevent them from getting a Medigap plan. If you enroll during your six-month Open Enrollment Period, an insurer cannot deny you coverage for this reason. However, they can impose a waiting period. This means the policy might not cover your out-of-pocket costs for that specific condition for up to six months. The good news is that you can often reduce or eliminate this waiting period if you had at least six months of continuous, creditable health coverage before your Medigap policy started.

Can You Switch Medigap Plans?

You can apply to switch Medigap plans at any time. However, if you are outside your Initial Enrollment Period and don’t have a guaranteed issue right, the process is different. The new insurance company will likely require you to go through medical underwriting, which means answering a series of health questions. Based on your answers, the company can charge you a higher premium than a healthy applicant or even deny your application completely. This is why your first Medigap choice is so important—switching to a different plan later on is not always guaranteed. It pays to choose carefully from the start.

Know Your State’s Specific Rules

While Medigap plans are standardized at the federal level, each state has its own set of regulations. Some states offer additional enrollment protections that give you more flexibility. For example, states like California and Oregon have a “birthday rule” that allows you to switch to another Medigap plan with equal or lesser benefits around your birthday each year without medical underwriting. Because these rules vary so much, it’s a good idea to check the specific guidelines with your state’s Department of Insurance. An experienced agent can also help you understand the rules where you live.

How to Compare Medigap Providers

Since the government standardizes Medigap plans, the coverage for a Plan G from one company is identical to a Plan G from another. This is actually great news for you, because it simplifies your decision. You don’t have to sort through confusing coverage differences. Instead, you can focus on choosing the right company.

The insurance provider you choose makes all the difference in your experience. While two companies might offer the same plan at different prices, the cost is just one piece of the puzzle. You also need to consider their financial stability, customer service reputation, and history of rate increases. Finding the right fit means looking at the whole picture to ensure you’re partnering with a reliable company that will be there for you when you need them. Think of it like buying a car. Two cars might have the same engine and features, but you still care about the manufacturer’s reputation for reliability and customer support. The same principle applies here. We’ll walk through the five key areas to compare so you can feel confident in your choice.

Check Their Financial Strength

Before you look at anything else, it’s wise to check a company’s financial health. You’re buying a plan to protect you for years to come, so you want to be sure the company is on solid financial ground and can pay its claims. Independent agencies like A.M. Best, Moody’s, and S&P rate the financial strength of insurance companies. Think of these ratings as a financial report card.

A high rating, like an “A” from A.M. Best, indicates that the company has a strong ability to meet its ongoing insurance obligations. This isn’t just industry jargon; it’s a measure of stability and reliability. Choosing a company with a strong financial rating gives you peace of mind that your partner in healthcare is built to last.

Compare Premium Costs

This is where you’ll find the most significant variation between companies. The monthly premium for the exact same Medigap plan can differ by a surprising amount from one provider to the next. That’s why it’s so important to shop around and get quotes from several different insurers for the plan you’re interested in.

Your premium is determined by several factors, including your age, location, and sometimes your health. But one of the most important factors is simply when you enroll. Signing up during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period gives you the best access to the most competitive rates. Taking the time to compare Medigap plan prices is one of the smartest ways to manage your long-term healthcare costs without sacrificing a bit of coverage.

Look Into Customer Service Reviews

When you have a question about a bill or need help with your policy, you want to know you can reach a helpful person without a hassle. A company’s customer service record tells you a lot about how they treat their members. You can get a good sense of this by reading reviews from current policyholders on independent websites.

For a more objective measure, you can check complaint data from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). The NAIC tracks consumer complaints filed against insurance companies and calculates a complaint ratio. This ratio shows you how many complaints a company receives relative to its size. A company with a consistently low complaint ratio is often a sign of a positive customer experience.

See How Well They Handle Claims

The good news is that with Medigap, claims are typically very straightforward. In most cases, your doctor bills Medicare, and then your Medigap plan is billed automatically for the remaining costs. You rarely have to file any paperwork yourself. However, a company’s overall reputation for handling its business efficiently is still important.

A key part of this is how they manage rate increases over time. Some companies might lure you in with a very low initial premium, only to implement steep rate hikes year after year. It’s better to choose a company with a history of stable, predictable premium increases. Looking at a company’s rate increase history can give you a better idea of what to expect for your budget down the road.

Ask About Additional Benefits

While the core medical benefits of each Medigap plan are standardized, some companies offer extra perks to stand out from the competition. These additional benefits can add real value to your plan if they fit your lifestyle. Common extras include memberships to fitness programs like SilverSneakers, discounts on vision and dental care, or access to a 24/7 nurse hotline.

When comparing companies, always ask what non-medical perks are included with the plan. Some of the best Medicare Supplement companies are known for these valuable extras. Just be sure to weigh the value of these benefits against any difference in premium. A gym membership is only a good deal if you actually plan to use it.

How to Choose the Right Medigap Plan for You

With so many plans and providers, picking the right Medigap policy can feel like a huge task. But it doesn’t have to be. By breaking it down into a few key steps, you can find a plan that fits your health needs and your budget. It’s all about understanding what you need, knowing what affects the price, and getting the right help along the way.

Assess Your Personal Healthcare Needs

The first step is to take a realistic look at your health. Are you in good health and mostly just need coverage for check-ups and unexpected emergencies? Or do you have chronic conditions that require frequent doctor visits and treatments? Think about your family’s health history as well. While Original Medicare covers a lot, some people find it leaves them with significant out-of-pocket costs. A Medigap plan is designed to fill those coverage gaps, so being honest about your potential medical needs will help you decide how much coverage is right for you.

The Benefit of Working With an Agent

You don’t have to figure this all out on your own. Working with an independent insurance agent can make the process much easier. A good agent acts as your advocate, helping you compare plans from different companies to find the best fit. They can explain the fine print and help you find the right balance between your monthly premium and your coverage benefits. Since they aren’t tied to a single insurance company, their goal is to help you understand your options, not to sell you a specific policy. This personalized guidance is invaluable when you’re making such an important decision.

Key Factors to Consider

Several things can influence your Medigap premium. One of the most significant is your location. Rates for the exact same plan can vary quite a bit from one state or even one zip code to another. Your age and when you first enroll also play a big role. Beyond personal factors, broader trends like the increased demand for Medigap plans can lead to higher premiums as insurers adjust. Understanding these variables will help you make sense of the quotes you receive and choose a plan that offers stable, long-term value.

Review Your Payment Options

It’s also important to understand how an insurance company sets its prices. There are three main ways Medigap premiums are priced: community-rated, issue-age-rated, and attained-age-rated. With community-rated plans, everyone pays the same premium regardless of age. Issue-age-rated premiums are based on your age when you buy the policy, and attained-age-rated premiums increase as you get older. Each method has its pros and cons, and knowing the difference can help you anticipate future premium increases and choose a plan that aligns with your financial plans for retirement.

Know Your Rights and Protections

Understanding your rights is a key part of feeling confident about your Medigap coverage. It’s easy to feel like you’re at the mercy of big insurance companies, but there are specific rules in place to protect you as a consumer. These protections ensure you’re treated fairly, have access to the information you need, and have a path forward if you disagree with a decision. Knowing these rights helps you make informed choices and ensures you can hold your insurance provider accountable. From federal laws to state-specific rules, these guidelines are designed to give you peace of mind.

Federal and State Guidelines

Think of Medigap rules as having two layers: federal and state. Federal law sets the foundation, providing a baseline of consumer protections for everyone over 65 buying a Medigap policy. However, your state can offer additional protections on top of that. Because of this, the specific Medigap enrollment rules and protections can differ depending on where you live. This is why it’s so important to understand not just the national standards but also the specific regulations in your state, as they could give you more options or enrollment opportunities.

Guarantees for Policy Renewal

One of the most powerful protections you have with a Medigap policy is that it’s generally guaranteed renewable. This means the insurance company cannot cancel your policy as long as you pay your premiums on time. They can’t drop your coverage because you get sick or your health changes. This guarantee is a cornerstone of Medigap, providing crucial stability and ensuring you can rely on your coverage for the long haul. It’s a significant benefit that offers peace of mind, knowing your safety net will remain in place when you need it most.

The Appeals Process

If your Medigap plan denies payment for a service or claim, you don’t have to take no for an answer. You have the right to appeal the decision. The appeals process is a formal way to ask the insurance company to reconsider its choice. While the specific steps can vary, the process allows you to present your case and have it reviewed. Understanding that you can challenge a denial is empowering. It ensures there’s a system of checks and balances in place, so you can fight for the benefits you believe you’re entitled to receive under your policy.

Your Consumer Protection Rights

As a consumer, you have several other important rights when you purchase a Medigap policy. You have the right to receive clear, easy-to-understand information about the policy before you buy it. You also have a 30-day “free look” period, which allows you to cancel the policy for a full refund if you change your mind. These Medicare Supplement plan laws are designed to ensure you can make a confident choice without pressure. They put you in the driver’s seat, giving you the time and information needed to select the right coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

If all Plan Gs have the same benefits, why shouldn’t I just pick the cheapest one? While it’s tempting to go with the lowest price, the initial premium is only one part of the story. A company with a low introductory rate might have a history of steep price hikes year after year. You should also consider the company’s financial stability and customer service reputation. Choosing a provider known for fair, predictable rate increases and excellent support can save you money and frustration in the long run.

What’s the main difference between a Medigap plan and a Medicare Advantage plan? This is a common point of confusion. The simplest way to think about it is that Medigap works with Original Medicare, while Medicare Advantage works in place of it. A Medigap policy supplements your Part A and Part B coverage, paying for costs that Medicare doesn’t. A Medicare Advantage plan is an alternative way to get your Medicare benefits, often through an HMO or PPO with a specific network of doctors.

I missed my six-month Open Enrollment Period. Can I still get a Medigap plan? Yes, you can still apply for a Medigap plan at any time. However, outside of your initial enrollment window or a special circumstance that gives you guaranteed issue rights, insurance companies can require you to answer health questions. This process, called medical underwriting, means they can charge you a higher premium or even deny your application based on your health history.

Will my Medigap premium stay the same every year? You should expect your premium to increase over time. These increases are a normal part of Medigap insurance and are typically due to your age and the rising cost of healthcare. However, the size and frequency of these increases can vary significantly from one company to another. This is why looking at a company’s rate history is just as important as looking at its current price.

Can my Medigap policy be canceled if my health changes? No, it cannot. Medigap policies are guaranteed renewable, which is one of their strongest protections. As long as you continue to pay your premiums, the insurance company cannot cancel your policy or single you out for a rate increase because you develop a health condition. This gives you crucial peace of mind that your coverage will be there when you need it most.