What Is Medigap Plan G?
Plan G is the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plan available to people who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020. It covers nearly all out-of-pocket costs associated with Original Medicare, with only one exception: the Medicare Part B annual deductible ($283 in 2026).
Plan G has become the most popular choice among new Medicare beneficiaries because it offers excellent coverage at competitive premiums. Once you meet the Part B deductible each year, Plan G covers virtually all your Medicare-approved healthcare costs.
Why Plan G Is Popular
- Comprehensive coverage with predictable out-of-pocket costs
- Lower premiums than Plan F (the only more comprehensive plan)
- No copays or coinsurance after meeting the Part B deductible
- Foreign travel emergency coverage up to plan limits
- Guaranteed renewable for life
What Does Plan G Cover?
Plan G provides coverage for the following benefits:
| Benefit | Plan G Coverage |
|---|---|
| Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are used up) | 100% |
| Part B coinsurance or copayment | 100% |
| Blood (first 3 pints) | 100% |
| Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment | 100% |
| Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance | 100% |
| Part A deductible | 100% |
| Part B deductible | Not covered |
| Part B excess charges | 100% |
| Foreign travel emergency (up to plan limits) | 80% |
How Much Does Plan G Cost?
Plan G premiums vary based on several factors:
Factors That Affect Your Premium
- Age: Older enrollees typically pay higher premiums
- Location: Premiums vary significantly by state and ZIP code
- Gender: In some states, men and women pay different rates
- Tobacco use: Tobacco users often pay 15-30% more
- Insurance company: Rates can vary significantly between carriers
Average Plan G Costs in 2026
Based on national averages, Plan G premiums typically range from:
- Ages 65-70: $140-$220 per month
- Ages 71-75: $160-$250 per month
- Ages 76-80: $180-$280 per month
- Ages 81+: $200-$320 per month
Note: These are estimates. Actual costs in your area may be higher or lower. Get personalized quotes to see accurate pricing.
Plan G vs. Plan F
If you became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020, you may be choosing between Plan F and Plan G. Here's how they compare:
| Feature | Plan F | Plan G |
|---|---|---|
| Part B Deductible Coverage | Yes | No ($283 in 2026) |
| All Other Benefits | Identical | Identical |
| Monthly Premium | Typically $20-$40 higher | Lower |
| Annual Out-of-Pocket | $0 | $283 (Part B deductible) |
| Availability | Only if eligible before 1/1/2020 | Available to all |
Which Saves Money: Plan F or Plan G?
For most people, Plan G saves money overall. Even though you pay the $283 Part B deductible, Plan G premiums are typically $240-$480 lower per year than Plan F. This means you come out ahead financially with Plan G, while getting virtually identical coverage.
Plan G vs. Plan N
Plan N is another popular option with lower premiums but slightly less coverage:
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part B Deductible | You pay ($283) | You pay ($283) |
| Doctor Office Visit Copay | $0 | Up to $20 |
| Emergency Room Copay | $0 | Up to $50 (waived if admitted) |
| Part B Excess Charges | 100% covered | Not covered |
| Monthly Premium | Higher | $20-$50 lower |
Choose Plan G if: You want maximum coverage, see doctors frequently, or prefer zero copays
Choose Plan N if: You're healthy, rarely visit doctors, and want to save on premiums
High Deductible Plan G
Some insurance companies also offer a high-deductible version of Plan G with significantly lower monthly premiums.
How High Deductible Plan G Works
- Annual Deductible: $2,950 in 2026
- Premium Savings: Typically $80-$150 per month less than standard Plan G
- After Deductible: 100% coverage just like standard Plan G
Best for: Healthy individuals who rarely need healthcare but want catastrophic protection
Is Plan G Right for You?
Plan G May Be Your Best Choice If:
- You want comprehensive coverage with minimal out-of-pocket costs
- You prefer predictable healthcare expenses
- You see doctors or specialists regularly
- You want protection against high Part B coinsurance costs
- You value peace of mind over premium savings
- You're new to Medicare (became eligible on or after 1/1/2020)
Consider Other Plans If:
- You're very healthy and rarely use healthcare (consider Plan N or High Deductible Plan G)
- You want the absolute lowest premium (consider Plan N or other cost-sharing plans)
- You already have other supplemental coverage (employer retiree plan, VA benefits)
How to Enroll in Plan G
Best Time to Enroll
During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period: This is the 6-month period that begins the month you're 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this time, you cannot be denied coverage or charged more due to health conditions.
Enrollment Steps
- Compare Plan G rates from different insurance companies in your area
- Review each company's reputation, customer service, and financial stability
- Complete an application with your chosen insurance company
- Pay your first premium to activate coverage
- Coverage typically begins the first day of the month after your application is approved
Shopping Tip
Since all Plan G policies offer identical coverage by law, the main difference between companies is price and customer service. Always compare quotes from multiple carriers to find the best rate. Prices can vary by hundreds of dollars per year for the exact same coverage!
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