Compare Medicare Supplement Plans Online
If you’re approaching Medicare eligibility or already on Original Medicare, you’ve probably realized that it doesn’t cover everything.
That’s where a Medicare Supplement plan, also known as Medigap, comes in.
A Medigap plan is designed to fill the coverage gaps that Original Medicare leaves behind – things like hospital deductibles, coinsurance, and that 20% you’re responsible for after Medicare pays its share.
These plans help make your healthcare costs predictable, so you’re not blindsided by unexpected bills.
When people start comparing Medicare Supplement options online, most quickly narrow it down to the three most popular choices:
- Medicare Supplement Plan G – the most comprehensive coverage available for new enrollees.
- Medicare Supplement Plan N – slightly lower premiums with a few small copays.
- High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) – the budget-friendly version with the same coverage but a higher annual deductible.
Each of these plans offers strong protection – the key differences come down to monthly premiums, flexibility, and long-term value.
At Policy Guide, our goal is straightforward: to help you make an informed decision, not just based on price, but on what truly matters – benefits, reliability, and peace of mind.
Comparing Plan G vs. Plan N vs. High-Deductible Plan G
When comparing Medicare Supplement plans online, it’s helpful to view the differences side by side. The chart below gives a quick, real-world look at what you can expect under Plan G, Plan N, and High-Deductible Plan G (HDG).
These are the three plans most Medicare beneficiaries choose today because they strike the best balance between coverage, cost, and flexibility.
Core Benefit Comparison
| Service | Plan G | Plan N | High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) |
| Doctor Office Visit | $0 after Part B deductible | Up to $20 copay | % then deductible |
| Urgent Care | $0 after Part B deductible | Up to $20 copay | % then deductible |
| Emergency Room | $0 after Part B deductible | Up to $50 copay (waived if admitted) | % then deductible |
| Outpatient Testing / Surgery | 100% covered after Part B deductible | 100% covered after Part B deductible | % then deductible |
| Inpatient Hospital Stay | 100% covered | 100% covered | % then deductible |
| Skilled Nursing / Rehab Care | 100% covered | 100% covered | % then deductible |
| Foreign Travel Emergency (up to plan limits) | Included | Included | Included |
Member Cost Differences
| Service | Plan G | Plan N | High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) |
| Part B Deductible | You pay once per year ($257) | You pay once per year ($257) | Counts toward $2,870 deductible |
| Doctor Copay | $0 | Up to $20 | % then deductible |
| ER Copay | $0 | Up to $50 | % then deductible |
| Excess Charges | Covered | Not covered | % then deductible |
Each of these plans offers solid coverage – the differences mainly come down to how you prefer to pay for your care:
- Plan G offers the most comprehensive protection. You pay your small annual Part B deductible, and then nearly everything Medicare approves is covered. It’s perfect for people who want to budget once and be done.
- Plan N gives you nearly the same coverage at a lower premium. You’ll have a few small copays ($20 for doctor visits, $50 for the ER), and it doesn’t cover “excess charges” – although most doctors don’t bill them.
- High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) has the lowest premium but the highest out-of-pocket risk. You’ll pay the first $2,870 in Medicare-approved costs each year yourself. After that, you’re fully covered.
Which Plan Is Best for You?
After comparing all the options – Plan G, Plan N, and High-Deductible Plan G – the next question is usually, “Okay, but which one should I actually choose?”
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The “best” plan depends on your budget, health, and how you like to handle your healthcare costs.
But after helping thousands of retirees find the right fit, here’s how we usually break it down at Policy Guide.
| If you’re the type of person who likes everything covered and doesn’t want surprises, go with Plan G. You’ll pay a little more each month, but once you meet your small Part B deductible, your medical costs are done for the year. It’s the simplest, most predictable way to handle Medicare – and that’s why it’s the most popular choice nationwide. |
| If you’re generally healthy and don’t mind paying a small copay once in a while, Plan N gives you nearly identical protection for a lower premium. You’ll pay around $20 for most doctor visits and $50 for the ER, but you could save hundreds a year in premiums. This plan is great for people who want strong coverage without paying top dollar. |
| If you’re in excellent health and want to keep your monthly costs as low as possible, High-Deductible Plan G can be a smart move. It covers everything that standard Plan G does, but only after you meet a higher deductible. For many budget-conscious or younger retirees, it’s a good “starter plan” that offers protection without the big premium. |
The main thing to remember is that every Medigap plan is standardized – so a Plan G is a Plan G, regardless of which company you purchase it from.
The key differences are in pricing, rate increases, and additional perks such as fitness memberships or vision discounts.
If you’re unsure where you fit, that’s exactly what we help people with every day. Our team can help walk you through your options, compare costs from top-rated carriers in your ZIP code, and help you decide which plan makes the most sense for your budget and peace of mind.
Next, let’s take a closer look at example monthly premiums.
Compare Medigap Plan Premiums
Plan G: Texas (Dallas sample)
| Company (Texas) | Plan G Monthly Premium |
| Cigna Insurance Company | $167/mo |
| Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas | $179/mo |
| Humana | $186/mo |
| UnitedHealthcare (Standard) | $194/mo |
| Mutual of Omaha (Mutual of Omaha Insurance Co.) | $198/mo |
Plan N: Florida (statewide sample)
| Company (Florida) | Plan N Monthly Premium |
| Cigna National Health Insurance Company | $252/mo |
| UnitedHealthcare (Standard) | $260/mo |
| Florida Blue | $270/mo |
| Humana (Humana Insurance Company) | $281/mo |
| Mutual of Omaha (United World Life Insurance Co.) | $289/mo |
High-Deductible Plan G: Pennsylvania (statewide sample)
| Company (Pennsylvania) | HDG Monthly Premium |
| United American Insurance Company | $39/mo |
| Globe Life and Accident Insurance Company | $47/mo |
| Aetna Health Insurance Company | $58/mo |
| Humana (CompBenefits Insurance Company) | $61/mo |
| Cigna Insurance Company | $62/mo |
Annual Cost Analysis
The examples below illustrate how premiums and typical out-of-pocket costs can add up in a “moderate use” year. Use your ZIP-specific quotes to run the same math locally.
| Plan | Avg. Monthly Premium | Annual Premium | Est. Out-of-Pocket (Moderate Use) | Est. Total Annual Cost |
| Plan G (TX sample) | $185 | $2,220 | $257 | $2,477 |
| Plan N (FL sample) | $270 | $3,240 | $257 (deductible + copays) | $3,627 |
| HDG (PA sample) | $53 | $636 | Varies: Low-use $300–$800 · High-use up to $2,870 | $936–$3,436 |
Why Plan N looks pricier here: we’re comparing different states. Florida Plan N premiums in the file run higher than Dallas, TX Plan G samples.
Always compare plans within your own ZIP code. That’s where Plan N typically saves 10–25% on premiums compared to Plan G, and HDG often saves 60–75% on premiums (in exchange for the higher deductible).
Choosing a Reliable Medicare Supplement Company
In 2025, both ACE and Allstate exited the Medicare Supplement (Medigap) market, leaving thousands of policyholders scrambling for new coverage. That’s a tough reminder that not all insurance companies have the same long-term commitment to Medicare.
When choosing a Medigap carrier, stability and experience matter just as much as price. Look for companies with at least five years of consistent Medigap performance, strong financial ratings, and a proven record of rate stability.
Large, established brands – such as UnitedHealthcare, Cigna Healthcare, Humana, Mutual of Omaha, and Aetna – have the infrastructure, enrollment volume, and financial strength to remain steady through market shifts.
They’re also better equipped to handle claims efficiently and provide reliable customer service year after year.
By contrast, smaller or newer carriers might offer an initial price advantage but can later exit the market or raise rates sharply. Choosing a long-standing insurer reduces your risk of disruption and ensures peace of mind over time.
Extra Perks to Consider
Beyond premium costs, some Medicare Supplement providers offer additional member benefits that make their policies more attractive. These may not alter your Medigap coverage itself, as Medigap benefits are standardized; however, they can add meaningful value in terms of convenience and wellness support.
| Company | Dental / Vision / Hearing Options | Wellness Program | Discount Programs |
| UnitedHealthcare | Optional add-on packages available | Renew Active wellness tools | Hearing aid and eyewear discounts |
| Cigna Healthcare | Optional dental and vision rider | Health coaching and mental well-being resources | Discounts on alternative therapies |
| Humana Inc. | Optional dental, vision, and hearing riders | Go365 by Humana rewards program | OTC and pharmacy savings |
| Mutual of Omaha | Vision and hearing discounts (no dental rider) | Basic wellness resources | Healthy Living discounts |
| Aetna (Continental Life) | Dental and vision add-ons available in select states | 24-hour nurse line | Hearing, vision, and fitness partner savings |
Key takeaway: Choosing a Medicare Supplement company isn’t just about finding the lowest premium.
The right carrier combines competitive pricing with stability, dependable claims service, and added benefits that enhance your overall experience.
With several carriers leaving the market in recent years, experience matters more than ever.
Trusted national names, such as UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Humana, Mutual of Omaha, and Aetna, continue to offer strong, sustainable options for long-term Medigap coverage, providing the security and predictability that Medicare beneficiaries value most.
How Medicare Supplement Plans Differ from Medicare Advantage
One of the biggest questions people ask when they first turn 65 is, “What’s the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage?”
It’s a fair question – and honestly, the two couldn’t be more different in how they work.
A Medicare Supplement plan (also called Medigap) is designed to work alongside Original Medicare. You keep Medicare as your foundation – Part A and B – and your supplement simply fills in the gaps: the deductibles, coinsurance, and copays that Medicare doesn’t pay.
It’s not a managed-care plan, which means you can see any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare, no referrals required. If you like the idea of picking your own providers, traveling freely, or knowing exactly what your out-of-pocket costs will be, a supplement gives you that kind of predictability.
A Medicare Advantage plan, on the other hand, is more like a replacement for Medicare. When you enroll in an Advantage plan, a private insurance company takes over your Medicare benefits and bundles everything – hospital, medical, and usually prescription coverage – into one policy.
These plans often look appealing because the premiums can be low (sometimes even $0), and they throw in extras like dental, vision, hearing, gym memberships, and over-the-counter allowances.
But here’s the trade-off: with Medicare Advantage, you’re in a network. Most plans are HMOs or PPOs, so your access to doctors and hospitals is limited to the plan’s provider list. Referrals are often required to see specialists, and if your doctor leaves the network midyear, you may have to switch or pay out-of-network rates.
Every year, the plan can also change – with new costs, new benefits, and new networks – and that’s where many people get surprised.
So the real decision comes down to what you value more:
- If you want freedom to choose any doctor nationwide and coverage that stays the same year after year, Medigap is the stronger, more stable choice.
- If you’re comfortable with a network and want a low-premium plan that bundles in extra perks, Medicare Advantage can be an option – as long as you’re prepared for yearly changes.
In our experience, we’ve seen both sides up close. Medicare Advantage plans can be a good fit for healthy, budget-conscious retirees who rarely travel.
However, for those who prioritize consistency and flexibility (especially snowbirds or individuals managing ongoing health conditions), a Medicare Supplement plan is usually the safer long-term investment.
Quick Summary
| Category | Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
| Provider Access | Any doctor or hospital nationwide that accepts Medicare | It can vary widely depending on usage |
| Referrals Required | No | Must stay within the plan’s network (HMO/PPO) |
| Coverage Stability | Benefits never change from year to year | Can change annually – benefits, costs, and networks |
| Out-of-Pocket Costs | Predictable, limited | Can vary widely depending on usage |
| Travel Flexibility | Nationwide coverage, includes limited foreign travel | Typically local or regional only |
| Extras | Optional add-ons (dental, vision, hearing) | Often includes extras automatically |
| Ideal For | Those who want freedom and long-term stability | Those who prefer low premiums and convenience |
Bottom line: Medicare Supplement plans emphasize freedom and predictability, while Medicare Advantage plans focus on simplicity and short-term savings.
At Policy Guide, we help you weigh both – so you can choose the one that fits your health needs, travel habits, and budget for the long haul.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans, the good news is that you really can’t go wrong with any of the three core options – as long as the plan fits your budget, health needs, and lifestyle.
Each plan offers the same standardized benefits, no matter which insurance company you choose.
That means a Plan G from Cigna covers the exact same benefits as a Plan G from Humana or UnitedHealthcare – the only real differences come down to monthly premiums, rate stability, and added perks like wellness programs or gym memberships.
Here’s how to think about your choices:
- Plan G – Best All-Around Coverage: If you want near-complete protection and the fewest surprises, Plan G remains the gold standard. You’ll pay your small Part B deductible once per year, and after that, Medicare-approved costs are fully covered.
- Plan N – Great Balance of Cost and Value: Plan N offers almost the same protection as Plan G but at a lower monthly cost. You’ll have small copays for doctor and ER visits, but for many healthy retirees, that trade-off is well worth it.
- High-Deductible Plan G – Best for Budget-Conscious, Healthy Individuals: This version provides the same protection as standard Plan G but with a much lower monthly premium. You’ll pay more up front (the deductible) before coverage begins, but if you stay relatively healthy, the savings can add up fast.
The key takeaway: all Medigap plans are standardized, so once you find the plan type that fits you, focus on comparing company pricing, financial strength, and rate history.
At Policy Guide, we make that process simple – helping you compare premiums, review carrier reputations, and lock in coverage that fits both your health needs and your long-term peace of mind.
Article Resources: Types of Medigap Plans | When Can I Apply for a Medicare Supplement Plan? | How Do I Enroll in a Medigap Plan? | When Can I Change Medigap Plans?
FAQs
Yes, you can switch plans later, but your ability to do so depends on your health and the insurance company’s underwriting rules. After your Medigap Open Enrollment Period ends, insurers can require medical questions or deny coverage based on preexisting conditions. It’s usually easier to start with a standard Plan G if you think you might want fuller coverage down the road.
Even though the benefits of Medigap plans are standardized nationwide, premiums differ due to state regulations, local healthcare costs, and how insurance companies set rates in your area. For example, Plan N might appear more expensive in Florida than Plan G in Texas – not because it offers more coverage, but because premiums in Florida are generally higher.
If your insurance company exits the Medigap market – as ACE and Allstate did in 2025 – your existing policy remains valid, but you’ll need to find new coverage once it ends. Choosing a long-established carrier (like UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, or Mutual of Omaha) helps reduce the risk of disruptions or sudden rate increases.
No – the benefits of each Medigap plan letter (like G or N) are standardized by federal law and do not change. However, your premiums can change annually due to age-based pricing or company rate adjustments. This makes it important to choose a carrier known for rate stability, not just the lowest initial price.
While these extras don’t change the core Medigap coverage, they can add meaningful value. For instance, wellness programs such as UnitedHealthcare’s Renew Active or Humana’s Go365 may offer gym memberships or mental well-being resources. If two companies offer similar premiums, these perks can tip the scale – especially if you value preventive care and active living.
