Medicare Supplement Plan G has become the most popular Medigap plan for new Medicare beneficiaries. It offers comprehensive coverage of Medicare's cost-sharing gaps, leaving you responsible for only one expense: the annual Part B deductible ($283 in 2026). After paying that once per year, Plan G covers virtually everything else Medicare does not pay.
What Does Plan G Cover?
| Benefit | Plan G Coverage |
|---|---|
Part A deductible ($1,736 per benefit period) | Covered 100% |
Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to 365 days after Medicare) | Covered 100% |
Part B coinsurance (20% of Medicare-approved amount) | Covered 100% |
Part B excess charges | Covered 100% |
Skilled nursing facility coinsurance | Covered 100% |
Foreign travel emergency (80% after $250 deductible, up to $50,000 lifetime) | Covered |
Part B deductible ($283 in 2026) | NOT covered |
How to Compare Plan G Carriers
Because all Plan G policies offer identical benefits, the only meaningful differences between carriers are price, financial strength, and customer service. Premiums for the same Plan G coverage can vary by 30% to 50% or more depending on the insurer and your location. Always compare rates from multiple carriers before choosing.
| Factor | What to Check |
|---|---|
Monthly premium | Compare quotes from at least 3-5 carriers in your zip code |
AM Best financial rating | Look for A or higher; indicates ability to pay claims |
Rate increase history | Ask how much premiums have increased over the past 5 years |
Customer service | Check J.D. Power ratings and state complaint ratios |
Household discount | Many carriers offer 5-12% discounts if a spouse also enrolls |
High-Deductible Plan G Is Also Available
High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) offers the same benefits as standard Plan G but requires you to pay the first $2,950 in Medicare cost-sharing each year (2026) before coverage kicks in. In exchange, premiums are significantly lower, often $30-$60 per month. HDG is a good option for healthy beneficiaries who want catastrophic protection at a lower monthly cost.
Is Plan G the Right Choice?
Plan G is the top recommendation for most new Medicare beneficiaries in 2026. It provides near-complete coverage of Medicare's cost-sharing gaps, leaving you with predictable, low out-of-pocket costs. The only people who might prefer a different plan are those who want even lower premiums (consider Plan N or High-Deductible Plan G) or those who had Plan F before 2020 and want to keep it.
Plan G vs. Plan N
Plan N is the second most popular Medigap plan. It covers everything Plan G covers except Part B excess charges, and it has small copays of up to $20 for office visits and up to $50 for emergency room visits. Plan N premiums are typically $20 to $40 per month lower than Plan G. If your doctors all accept Medicare assignment (meaning they do not charge excess charges), Plan N can be a cost-effective alternative.
Can I keep my Plan G if I move to a different state?
Yes. Medigap plans are portable. If you move, your Plan G coverage continues. However, your premium may change because Medigap pricing varies by location. You may want to compare rates from carriers in your new state.
Does Plan G cover dental, vision, or hearing?
No. Medigap plans, including Plan G, do not cover dental, vision, or hearing. These are not covered by Original Medicare either. If you want these benefits, consider a standalone dental/vision plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes them.
When is the best time to enroll in Plan G?
The best time is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins the month you are both age 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this 6-month window, you have guaranteed issue rights and cannot be denied or charged more based on health conditions.
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