Medicare Supplement Plan G: The Complete 2026 Guide

Why Plan G is the Most Popular Medigap Plan

Medicare Supplement Plan G has become the gold standard for Medicare beneficiaries seeking comprehensive coverage with predictable out-of-pocket costs. Since the elimination of Plan F for new Medicare enrollees in 2020, Plan G has emerged as the most popular Medigap choice, and for good reason: it offers nearly identical coverage to Plan F at a lower premium.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Plan G enrollment has surged in recent years, with millions of beneficiaries choosing this plan for its comprehensive benefits and excellent value proposition.

This definitive guide covers everything you need to know about Medicare Supplement Plan G, including what it covers, what it costs, how it compares to other plans, and whether it’s the right choice for your healthcare needs.

What Does Medicare Supplement Plan G Cover?

Comprehensive Coverage Benefits

Plan G is one of the most comprehensive Medigap policies available, covering virtually all Medicare cost-sharing except the Part B deductible. Here’s exactly what Plan G covers:

Part A Coverage

• Part A coinsurance and hospital costs: Full coverage for hospital stays up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits end
• Part A deductible: The $1,632 hospital deductible per benefit period (2025)
• Part A hospice coinsurance or copayment: Coverage for hospice care cost-sharing
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance: Full coverage for days 21-100 in a skilled nursing facility ($204 per day in 2026)

Part B Coverage

• Part B coinsurance or copayment: The 20% coinsurance typically required for Medicare Part B services
• Part B excess charges: When doctors charge up to 15% more than the Medicare-approved amount
• First three pints of blood: Coverage for blood needed for medical procedures

Additional Benefits

• Foreign travel emergency: 80% coverage for emergency care during foreign travel (after $250 deductible, up to $50,000 lifetime maximum)

What Plan G Does NOT Cover

It’s important to understand the one gap in Plan G coverage:

• Part B deductible: You pay the $240 annual Part B deductible (2025) out-of-pocket

Additionally, like all Medigap plans, Plan G does not cover:

• Prescription drugs (you need a separate Part D plan)
• Vision care or eyeglasses
• Dental care or dentures
• Hearing aids
• Long-term care (nursing home care)
• Private-duty nursing

Understanding Part B Excess Charges

One valuable but often overlooked benefit of Plan G is coverage for Part B excess charges. According to Medicare.gov, doctors who don’t accept Medicare assignment can charge up to 15% more than the Medicare-approved amount.

For example:

• Medicare-approved amount for a procedure: $1,000
• Doctor charges 15% excess: $1,150
• Medicare pays 80%: $800 (of the approved $1,000)
• Without Plan G: You pay $350 ($200 coinsurance + $150 excess charge)
• With Plan G: You pay $0 (Plan G covers both the coinsurance and excess charge)

While only about 5% of providers charge excess charges, having this protection provides complete peace of mind when seeking care.

How Much Does Plan G Cost in 2026?

Average Plan G Premiums

Plan G premiums vary significantly based on several factors, but here are typical monthly premium ranges for 2025:

• Age 65: $120-$200 per month
• Age 70: $140-$230 per month
• Age 75: $165-$265 per month
• Age 80: $190-$310 per month

These are national averages. Actual premiums in your area may be higher or lower depending on your state, ZIP code, and the insurance carrier you choose.

Factors That Affect Your Plan G Premium

1. Geographic Location

Your state and ZIP code dramatically impact premiums. High-cost states include:

• Florida: $150-$280 per month (age 65)
• New York: $200-$350 per month (community-rated)
• California: $140-$250 per month

Lower-cost states include:

• Wisconsin: $100-$160 per month (age 65)
• Iowa: $110-$170 per month
• Indiana: $115-$180 per month

2. Age and Pricing Method

Most insurance companies use attained-age pricing, meaning your premium increases as you age. Some use:

• Attained-age rated: Premium increases with age (most common)
• Issue-age rated: Premium based on age when you enroll
• Community-rated: Everyone pays the same regardless of age (rare)

3. Gender

In many states, insurance companies charge women slightly more (typically 3-8% higher) due to longer life expectancy. Some states prohibit gender-based pricing.

4. Tobacco Use

Tobacco users typically pay 15-25% higher premiums. If you quit smoking, you may be able to get the tobacco surcharge removed after 12 months of being tobacco-free.

5. Household Discounts

Many carriers offer discounts when:

• Two people in the same household both have policies (5-12% discount per person)
• You pay annually instead of monthly (3-5% discount)
• You use automatic bank draft (2-3% discount)

Total Annual Cost Calculation

When budgeting for Plan G, calculate your complete Medicare costs:

Example for a 65-year-old:

• Plan G premium: $165/month = $1,980 annually
• Part B premium: $174.70/month = $2,096 annually
• Part B deductible: $240 annually
• Part D plan (drug coverage): ~$45/month = $540 annually
• Total: $4,856 per year

After meeting your Part B deductible, Plan G covers virtually all other Medicare-approved costs with no copays for covered services.

Plan G vs. Plan F: Understanding the Key Difference

The Plan F Phase-Out

As a result of the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) of 2015, Plans C and F are no longer available to anyone who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020. This legislation aimed to eliminate first-dollar coverage to encourage more cost-conscious healthcare decisions.

Coverage Comparison

The only difference between Plan F and Plan G is:

Benefit	Plan F	Plan G
Part B Deductible ($240 in 2026)	Covered	You pay
All other Medicare costs	Covered	Covered

Why Plan G is Better Value

Even though Plan F covers the $240 Part B deductible and Plan G doesn’t, Plan G typically offers better value because:

1. Lower premiums: Plan G premiums are typically $200-$500 per year less than Plan F
2. Savings exceed the deductible: If you save $300/year in premiums and pay the $240 deductible, you’re $60 ahead
3. Smaller risk pool: Plan F is closed to new enrollees, so the risk pool ages and premiums increase faster
4. Better long-term value: Plan G premium increases will likely be more moderate over time

Example comparison for a 65-year-old:

• Plan F annual premium: $2,280
• Plan G annual premium: $1,980
• Plan G Part B deductible: $240
• Plan G total: $2,220 (saves $60/year compared to Plan F)

Should Plan F Holders Switch to Plan G?

If you currently have Plan F, should you switch to Plan G? The answer depends on your situation:

Consider switching if:

• Your Plan F premium is $300+ more per year than available Plan G premiums
• You can pass medical underwriting (required in most states)
• You want to lock in lower premiums for the future

Keep Plan F if:

• Premium difference is less than $300-400 per year
• You have health issues that might prevent approval for Plan G
• Your current Plan F has a good rate history
• You value the convenience of not paying any deductible

Important: Switching from Plan F to Plan G typically requires medical underwriting in most states, meaning you could be denied or charged more based on your health.

Plan G vs. Plan N: Which is Right for You?

Understanding Plan N Cost-Sharing

Plan N is the second most popular Medigap plan after Plan G. It offers excellent coverage at lower premiums but includes modest cost-sharing:

Cost	Plan G	Plan N
Part B deductible	You pay ($240)	You pay ($240)
Doctor office visits	$0	Up to $20 copay
Emergency room visits	$0	Up to $50 copay (waived if admitted)
Part B excess charges	Covered	Not covered
All other Medicare costs	Covered	Covered

Cost Comparison: Plan G vs. Plan N

Plan N premiums are typically $20-$50 per month less than Plan G ($240-$600 less annually). Let’s compare total costs:

Scenario 1: Low Healthcare Utilization (6 doctor visits per year)

Plan G:

• Annual premium: $1,980
• Part B deductible: $240
• Doctor visit copays: $0
• Total: $2,220

Plan N:

• Annual premium: $1,560
• Part B deductible: $240
• Doctor visit copays: $120 (6 visits x $20)
• Total: $1,920
• Savings: $300 per year

Scenario 2: High Healthcare Utilization (20 doctor visits per year)

Plan G:

• Annual premium: $1,980
• Part B deductible: $240
• Doctor visit copays: $0
• Total: $2,220

Plan N:

• Annual premium: $1,560
• Part B deductible: $240
• Doctor visit copays: $400 (20 visits x $20)
• Total: $2,200
• Savings: $20 per year

When to Choose Plan G Over Plan N

Plan G is the better choice if you:

• See doctors frequently (15+ times per year)
• Have chronic conditions requiring regular care
• Want absolute predictability with zero copays
• Value simplicity and don’t want to track copays
• Want protection against Part B excess charges
• Can afford the higher premium for comprehensive coverage

When to Choose Plan N Over Plan G

Plan N is the better choice if you:

• Are generally healthy with infrequent doctor visits
• Want to save on monthly premiums
• Don’t mind small copays ($20 per visit)
• Use doctors who accept Medicare assignment (no excess charges)
• Want good coverage at a lower cost

Read our detailed comparison: Medicare Supplement Plan N: Complete Guide

High-Deductible Plan G: An Alternative Option

What is High-Deductible Plan G?

High-Deductible Plan G offers the same coverage as standard Plan G, but you must pay a $2,800 deductible (2025) before the plan starts paying. This deductible applies to all Medicare cost-sharing, including Part A and Part B costs.

How High-Deductible Plan G Works

Here’s the process:

1. You receive care: Visit any Medicare provider
2. You pay costs until deductible is met: You pay all Medicare cost-sharing (Part A coinsurance, Part B coinsurance, etc.) until you’ve paid $2,800
3. Plan G covers everything after: Once you meet the $2,800 deductible, High-Deductible Plan G covers all remaining Medicare cost-sharing for the year
4. Deductible resets: On January 1, the deductible resets and you start over

Cost Comparison: Standard vs. High-Deductible Plan G

High-Deductible Plan G premiums: Typically $40-$80 per month ($480-$960 annually)

Standard Plan G premiums: Typically $120-$250 per month ($1,440-$3,000 annually)

Scenario 1: Minimal Healthcare Needs ($500 in Medicare cost-sharing)

Standard Plan G:

• Annual premium: $1,980
• Part B deductible: $240
• Other costs: $0
• Total: $2,220

High-Deductible Plan G:

• Annual premium: $720
• Out-of-pocket costs: $740 ($240 Part B deductible + $500 other Medicare cost-sharing)
• Total: $1,460
• Savings: $760

Scenario 2: Moderate Healthcare Needs ($4,000 in Medicare cost-sharing)

Standard Plan G:

• Annual premium: $1,980
• Part B deductible: $240
• Other costs: $0
• Total: $2,220

High-Deductible Plan G:

• Annual premium: $720
• Out-of-pocket costs: $2,800 (deductible met)
• Total: $3,520
• Higher cost: $1,300 more than standard Plan G

Who Should Consider High-Deductible Plan G?

Good candidates:

• Generally healthy with minimal healthcare needs
• Want catastrophic coverage protection
• Have emergency savings to cover the $2,800 deductible
• Want to minimize monthly premium costs
• Willing to self-insure for routine care

Should avoid:

• Have chronic conditions requiring regular care
• Limited emergency savings
• Want predictable monthly costs
• See specialists frequently
• Take multiple expensive medications (doesn’t help with Part D)

Enrolling in Plan G: Timing and Requirements

The Medigap Open Enrollment Period

The best time to enroll in Plan G is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which according to Medicare.gov:

• Lasts for six months
• Begins the first day of the month you’re 65 or older AND enrolled in Medicare Part B
• Guarantees you can buy any Medigap policy sold in your state
• Protects you from medical underwriting (companies can’t deny you or charge more for health issues)
• Eliminates pre-existing condition waiting periods

Important: If you’re still working at 65 and delay Medicare Part B enrollment, your Medigap Open Enrollment Period begins when you finally enroll in Part B, not when you turn 65.

Enrolling Outside the Open Enrollment Period

If you apply for Plan G outside your Open Enrollment Period, insurance companies in most states can:

• Require you to answer medical questions
• Deny your application based on health conditions
• Charge higher premiums due to health issues
• Impose pre-existing condition waiting periods (up to 6 months)

This is why enrolling during your Open Enrollment Period is crucial. Missing this window can make Medigap coverage expensive or impossible to obtain if you have health issues.

Guaranteed Issue Rights for Plan G

You have guaranteed issue rights (no medical underwriting) for Plan G in specific situations, including:

• Your Medicare Advantage plan is leaving Medicare or stops serving your area
• You move out of your plan’s service area
• Your plan violates its contract or misleads you
• You’re leaving employer/union coverage
• You dropped Medigap to join Medicare Advantage for the first time (within 12 months of joining)

Review all guaranteed issue situations at Medicare.gov.

Choosing the Best Plan G Insurance Company

Why Carrier Selection Matters

Since all Plan G policies offer identical coverage (federal standardization), your choice of insurance carrier matters for three main reasons:

1. Premium pricing: Premiums can vary $50-$100+ per month between carriers for identical coverage
2. Rate increase history: Some companies have more stable rate histories than others
3. Financial stability and customer service: Carrier quality affects your long-term experience

Top Plan G Insurance Carriers

While availability varies by state, these carriers consistently receive high marks for Plan G coverage:

AARP/UnitedHealthcare

• Pros: Competitive rates, large network, household discounts, good customer service
• Cons: AARP membership required ($16/year), may have higher rate increases in some areas
• Best for: Those who want brand recognition and good customer support

Mutual of Omaha

• Pros: Stable rate history, strong financial ratings, good customer service
• Cons: Not available in all states, premiums slightly higher in some markets
• Best for: Those prioritizing rate stability

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield

• Pros: Strong financial ratings, widely available, competitive pricing
• Cons: Customer service can vary by region
• Best for: Those who value financial stability

Aetna

• Pros: Competitive rates, household discounts, strong financial position
• Cons: Limited availability in some states
• Best for: Those seeking competitive pricing with solid backing

Cigna

• Pros: Competitive pricing, good customer service ratings
• Cons: Not available in all states
• Best for: Price-conscious shoppers in available markets

How to Compare Plan G Carriers

1. Compare Current Premiums

Get quotes from at least 3-5 carriers. Remember, you’re comparing identical coverage, premium is a legitimate deciding factor.

2. Research Rate Increase History

Ask about average annual rate increases over the past 3-5 years. Carriers with stable rate histories are preferable to those with volatile increases, even if current premiums are slightly higher.

3. Check Financial Ratings

Review A.M. Best financial strength ratings. Look for carriers rated A- or better. Check ratings at ambest.com.

4. Evaluate Customer Service

Check complaint ratios and customer reviews. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners provides complaint data.

5. Consider Discounts

Ask about:

• Household discounts (both spouses have policies)
• Annual payment discounts
• Electronic funds transfer (EFT) discounts
• Non-smoker discounts

Common Plan G Questions and Misconceptions

Can I switch Plan G carriers later?

Yes, you can switch Plan G carriers at any time. However, outside your Open Enrollment Period or guaranteed issue situations, the new carrier can use medical underwriting. If you’re in good health, switching to a lower-premium carrier can save significant money.

Does Plan G work everywhere in the United States?

Yes, Plan G works with any doctor or hospital in the United States that accepts Medicare. There are no networks, no referrals required, and coverage is guaranteed nationwide. This makes Plan G ideal for travelers and snowbirds.

Do I need prior authorization with Plan G?

No, Plan G does not require prior authorization. If Medicare approves the service, Plan G automatically pays its share. This is a significant advantage over Medicare Advantage plans that often require prior authorization.

What happens to Plan G if I move to another state?

Your Plan G coverage continues even if you move. However, premiums vary by state, so your premium will change to reflect your new location’s rates. Moving to a new state gives you guaranteed issue rights to switch carriers in your new state.

Can I have both Plan G and Medicare Advantage?

No, it’s illegal for insurance companies to sell you both Medigap and Medicare Advantage coverage. You must choose one or the other. If you switch from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare, you may face medical underwriting when applying for Plan G (unless you have guaranteed issue rights).

Does Plan G cover prescription drugs?

No, Plan G does not cover prescription drugs. You need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Learn more about coordinating coverage in our Medicare Supplement guide.

Maximizing Value from Your Plan G Coverage

Tip 1: Choose Any Medicare Provider

Take advantage of Plan G’s nationwide coverage by seeing top specialists wherever they’re located. You’re not restricted to networks, so choose providers based on quality and reputation, not insurance considerations.

Tip 2: Never Worry About Bills

After you pay your Part B deductible, Plan G covers virtually all Medicare-approved costs. Most services result in zero bills, making budgeting predictable and stress-free.

Tip 3: No Claim Forms

Plan G operates through Medicare’s “crossover” system. Medicare automatically sends claims to your Plan G carrier, which pays its share directly to providers. You never file claim forms or deal with paperwork.

Tip 4: Travel Freely

Plan G works anywhere in the United States, plus it includes foreign travel emergency coverage. This makes it ideal for retirees who travel frequently or spend winters in different states.

Tip 5: Review Rates Annually

Even though switching may require medical underwriting, it’s worth reviewing available rates annually. If you’re in good health and find significantly lower premiums elsewhere, switching can save hundreds per year.

Plan G for Special Situations

Plan G for Snowbirds

Plan G is ideal for beneficiaries who split time between multiple states. Unlike Medicare Advantage plans with geographic restrictions, Plan G:

• Works anywhere in the U.S. with no network restrictions
• Requires no notifications when you travel
• Provides consistent coverage regardless of location
• Includes foreign travel emergency coverage for international trips

Plan G for Frequent Travelers

Travelers benefit from Plan G’s:

• No referrals needed for specialists in any state
• Coverage at any Medicare-accepting facility
• Foreign travel emergency coverage (80% after $250 deductible)
• No need to notify anyone about travel plans

Plan G for Those with Chronic Conditions

If you have chronic health conditions, Plan G offers:

• Comprehensive coverage with minimal out-of-pocket costs
• No prior authorization requirements
• Access to any Medicare specialist nationwide
• Predictable costs regardless of healthcare utilization
• Coverage for skilled nursing facility stays (days 21-100)

The Long-Term Value Proposition of Plan G

Predictable Lifetime Costs

While Plan G premiums are higher than Medicare Advantage, they provide remarkable predictability:

• No surprise medical bills
• No copays after Part B deductible
• No out-of-pocket maximum to reach
• No network restrictions limiting care
• No authorization delays for needed services

Peace of Mind

The psychological benefit of Plan G shouldn’t be underestimated:

• Never worry about affordability of needed care
• Never avoid seeing specialists due to cost concerns
• Never face difficult financial decisions about healthcare
• Focus on health, not bills

Protection for Your Retirement Savings

Plan G protects your retirement nest egg from healthcare costs that could otherwise deplete savings. According to the Social Security Administration, healthcare is one of the largest retirement expenses. Plan G provides comprehensive protection for predictable monthly costs.

Conclusion: Is Plan G Right for You?

Medicare Supplement Plan G represents the gold standard in supplemental Medicare coverage. With comprehensive benefits covering virtually all Medicare cost-sharing (except the Part B deductible), nationwide provider access, and predictable out-of-pocket costs, Plan G offers exceptional value for Medicare beneficiaries who prioritize comprehensive coverage and freedom of choice.

Plan G is ideal if you:

• Want comprehensive coverage with minimal out-of-pocket costs
• Value freedom to see any Medicare provider without networks
• Travel frequently or have multiple residences
• Prefer predictable costs over lower premiums
• Have chronic conditions requiring regular care
• Can afford higher monthly premiums for better coverage

Consider alternatives if you:

• Are generally healthy with minimal healthcare needs (consider High-Deductible Plan G or Plan N)
• Have a tight budget and need lower premiums (consider Plan N or Medicare Advantage)
• Want dental, vision, and hearing included (consider Medicare Advantage)
• Are comfortable with network restrictions (consider Medicare Advantage)

For personalized guidance on Plan G and help comparing insurance carriers, schedule a free consultation with our licensed Medicare advisors. We serve beneficiaries throughout Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and beyond, providing lifetime service and support.

Additional Resources

• Medicare.gov - Official Medicare website
• CMS.gov - Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
• Find Medigap Policies
• All About Medicare Supplement Insurance
• Medicare Supplement Plan N Guide
• Medigap vs Medicare Advantage
• Medicare Enrollment Calculator