As you approach Medicare eligibility, choosing the right Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plan can make a huge difference in your healthcare costs. Plan G and Plan N are two of the most popular options, but which one offers the best value for you? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision that saves you the most money.

Why Choose Medigap?

Original Medicare (Part A & Part B) doesn’t cover everything—you’re still responsible for deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Medigap plans help fill these gaps, reducing your out-of-pocket costs and providing financial peace of mind.

Among all the Medigap options, Plan G and Plan N are top choices because they offer strong coverage at reasonable costs. But the key question is: Which plan will save you the most in the long run?

Plan G: Comprehensive Coverage with Predictable Costs

Medigap Plan G is often chosen by those who want maximum coverage with minimal out-of-pocket expenses. It covers nearly all the costs that Original Medicare does not pay, except for the Medicare Part B deductible.

Benefits of Plan G:

Pays for Medicare Part A hospital deductibles and coinsurance

Covers Medicare Part B coinsurance (after deductible is met)

No copayments for doctor visits or emergency room care

Covers Part B excess charges (if a provider charges more than Medicare-approved rates)

Provides coverage for skilled nursing facility care and foreign travel emergency services

With Plan G, you won’t have to worry about unexpected medical expenses beyond the Part B deductible. However, its comprehensive coverage comes with a higher monthly premium compared to other Medigap plans.

Plan N: Lower Premiums with Some Cost-Sharing

Medigap Plan N is a more budget-friendly option, offering lower monthly premiums in exchange for small copayments and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Benefits of Plan N:

Covers Medicare Part A hospital deductibles and coinsurance

Pays for most Medicare Part B coinsurance costs

Lower monthly premiums than Plan G

Provides skilled nursing facility care and foreign travel emergency coverage

However, Plan N does require cost-sharing, meaning you’ll pay:

A small copayment (typically up to $20) for doctor visits

A copayment (up to $50) for emergency room visits (waived if admitted)

Any excess charges from doctors who bill more than Medicare-approved rates

Plan N is a great option for those who do not frequently visit doctors or specialists and want to save money on monthly premiums while still having strong supplemental coverage.

Which Plan Saves You More?

The right choice depends on your healthcare needs and budget.

Choose Plan G if you want complete coverage and predictable costs. While it has higher premiums, it eliminates most surprise medical expenses and covers excess charges.

Choose Plan N if you want to save on monthly premiums and are comfortable with occasional copays. This plan is ideal for relatively healthy individuals who don’t require frequent doctor visits.

Although Plan N offers lower monthly costs, potential copayments and excess charges could add up over time. Plan G, on the other hand, provides peace of mind by covering almost all out-of-pocket expenses.

Policy-Driven Demand: Enroll Early to Avoid Health Underwriting

One of the biggest advantages of enrolling in a Medigap plan early is the Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period. This six-month window starts when you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B, allowing you to purchase any Medigap plan without medical underwriting.

During this period:

No health questions are asked, meaning pre-existing conditions won’t affect your eligibility.

You get the lowest available premium rates since insurers can’t charge higher prices based on health status.

You can choose any Medigap plan without risk of denial.

If you miss this window, insurers can use medical underwriting to determine eligibility and pricing, which may result in higher costs or even denial of coverage. Enrolling early ensures you lock in the best rates and benefits without worrying about future health conditions.

When and How to Enroll

The best time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period to take advantage of guaranteed coverage. If you apply later, you may face higher premiums or coverage restrictions based on your health.

To secure the best rates:

Compare plans from different providers

Check eligibility for Plan G or Plan N based on your healthcare needs

Act quickly to enroll before your open enrollment period expires