Medigap Plan G vs. Plan N

Medigap plans are standardized: a Plan G from one company covers the same things as a Plan G from another. Only the price and the company's service differ. For people new to Medicare since 2020, Plan G and Plan N are the most chosen.

What Plan G covers

Plan G pays nearly all the costs Original Medicare leaves to you. You pay the yearly Part B deductible yourself, and after that Plan G picks up the rest of your covered costs, including Part B excess charges (what some doctors bill above the Medicare-approved amount, up to 15% more).

What Plan N covers

Plan N usually has a lower monthly premium in exchange for some costs when you use care:

• A copay of up to $20 for some office visits.
• A copay of up to $50 for emergency room visits, waived if you're admitted.
• It doesn't pay Part B excess charges. Many doctors don't charge them, and a few states don't allow them.
• Like Plan G, you pay the Part B deductible yourself.

What about Plan F?

Plan F also covered the Part B deductible, but it can't be sold to anyone who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020. If you were eligible before then, you may still be able to buy it.

How people decide

• Plan G suits people who want the fewest surprises and see doctors often.
• Plan N suits people who see doctors less often and want a lower monthly premium.
• Compare premiums for your age and ZIP code: they vary widely between companies for the exact same coverage.

Remember: you also need a separate Part D plan for prescriptions.