Medigap Plans: Plan G vs Plan N Comparison
Understanding Medigap supplemental insurance and choosing between the two most popular plans.
Important Disclaimer
This content is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek guidance from qualified healthcare providers and licensed insurance professionals.
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What is Medigap?
Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) helps fill the "gaps" in Original Medicare by covering costs like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. These policies are sold by private insurance companies and only work with Original Medicare (Parts A and B), not with Medicare Advantage plans.
Key Benefits:
- Predictable out-of-pocket costs
- Freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide
- No networks or referrals required
- Guaranteed renewable coverage
Medigap Plan G vs. Plan N: Financial Analysis
Understanding the cost-risk trade-off between comprehensive coverage and lower premiums
Coverage Comparison at a Glance
| Benefit | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part A Deductible | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Part B Deductible | ❌ Not Covered | ❌ Not Covered |
| Part B Coinsurance | ✅ 100% Covered | ⚠️ Up to $20 copay |
| Emergency Room Copay | ✅ Covered | ⚠️ Up to $50 copay |
| Part B Excess Charges | ✅ Covered | ❌ Not Covered |
Plan G: Maximum Protection
Plan G provides the most comprehensive coverage available for new Medicare enrollees. After you pay the annual Part B deductible ($240 in 2025), Plan G covers virtually all remaining out-of-pocket costs.
Key Benefits
- ✅ No copays for doctor visits
- ✅ No ER copays
- ✅ Part B excess charges fully covered
- ✅ Predictable annual costs
Best For:
- • Frequent healthcare users
- • Those seeking maximum peace of mind
- • People who value predictable costs
- • Anyone concerned about excess charges
Plan N: Lower Premium Option
Plan N offers substantial coverage at a lower monthly premium. In exchange, you'll pay small copays for office visits and emergency room visits, and you're responsible for Part B excess charges.
Your Costs
- ⚠️ Up to $20 copay per office visit
- ⚠️ Up to $50 ER copay (waived if admitted)
- ⚠️ Part B excess charges not covered
- ✅ Part B deductible not covered
Best For:
- • Generally healthy individuals
- • Those seeking lower monthly costs
- • People in states limiting excess charges
- • Budget-conscious planners
Understanding Part B Excess Charges
Part B excess charges occur when a doctor who accepts Medicare but isn't a Medicare Assignment provider charges more than the Medicare-approved amount. The provider can charge up to 15% above the Medicare-approved rate.
Annual Cost Comparison Example
Plan G Scenario
- Premium: $200/month ($2,400/year)
- Part B Deductible: $240
- Copays: $0
- Total: $2,640/year
Plan N Scenario (6 visits)
- Premium: $140/month ($1,680/year)
- Part B Deductible: $240
- Copays: $120 (6 visits × $20)
- Total: $2,040/year
* Example assumes 6 office visits/year with no ER visits or excess charges
Find Your Best Fit
Take our Medigap Comparison Quiz below to get a personalized recommendation based on your healthcare needs and budget