When shopping for Medicare Supplement insurance companies, it is helpful to be familiar with the top 10 Medicare Supplement insurance companies and the factors that differentiate one Medicare insurance company from another. Whether you are new to Medicare or are considering supplemental coverage a few years after enrolling in the federal insurance plan, we provide the information you need to make the best decision possible.
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Below, we assess several elements for a Medicare Supplement insurance company to be one of the best. Factoring into our choices for the top companies are consumer reports, AM Best rating, Standard and Poor (S&P) rating, and the company’s number of years in the market. Understanding your carriers’ pros and cons is essential when comparing Medigap rates to find the best policy for you.
What Are the Top 10 Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies?
- Mutual of Omaha – Best Overall
- Aetna – High-Quality Nationwide Availability
- Cigna – Superior Customer Care
- United American – Best Enrollment Experience
- Capitol Life – Competitive Premium Cost Nationwide
- UnitedHealthcare – Best Underwriting Process
- Manhattan Life – Best Website Experience
- Humana – Best Value
- Blue Cross Blue Shield – Best Mobile App
- Bankers Fidelity – Best Senior Experience
Mutual of Omaha: Best Overall Medicare Insurance Company
It is clear why Mutual of Omaha is at the top of our list of the top 10 Medicare supplement insurance companies. This company has an A+ rating with AM Best and an AA- rating with S&P. Established in 1909, Mutual of Omaha has been a household name for over a century. They pay 98% of Medicare claims within 12 hours, saving clients the hassle of worrying about claim status.
Plus, you receive various policy options when using Mutual of Omaha as a Medicare insurance company. Aside from Medicare Supplement plans, Mutual of Omaha offers Medicare Part D prescription drug plans, dental coverage, and long-term care insurance – to name a few of their products.
Also, household discounts make it beneficial to choose Mutual of Omaha if your spouse already has an active Medigap policy with this company.
| Mutual of Omaha Pros: | Mutual of Omaha Cons: |
| Mutual of Omaha Medicare Supplement Plans are available in almost every state, making it one of the most widely available Medicare Supplement carriers. | For most new to Medicare, only three Medicare Supplement plans are available in most areas. (Medigap Plan A, Plan G, and Plan N). |
| Carrier offers a significant household discount of up to 12% for policyholders living in the same home. | Internet and mobile access to your plan are more difficult through Mutual of Omaha than other carriers. The website can be difficult for seniors to track claims, review benefits, or make payments. |
Aetna: Widely Available Medicare Insurance Company
Founded in 1853, Aetna proves to be one of the most established insurance companies nationwide. Over 39 million customers, including Medicare beneficiaries, rely on Aetna for healthcare coverage. Aetna boasts an A rating from AM Best and an A+ from S&P. Thus, Aetna proves to be a top carrier all around.
Aetna offers top Medigap plans in 43 states as a Medicare insurance company. These plans provide significant benefits, such as a 12-month rate lock guarantee, household discounts in many of the 43 states they are available, and 30-day free look protection.
| Aetna Pros: | Aetna Cons: |
| Aetna offers competitive prices nationwide for the top Medicare Supplement plans. | Aetna does not offer online price quoting for consumers in several states, which makes it more difficult for clients to research plan pricing and decide on a plan. |
| Partnership with CVS Health makes the company more diverse financially and enables you to receive additional perks as an Aetna policyholder. | As a company, Aetna tends to receive more low ratings and customer complaints than the average Medicare Supplement carrier, according to the Better Business Bureau. |
Cigna: Best Customer Service from a Medicare Insurance Company
The Insurance Company of North America (INA) began in 1792 as the United States’ first stockholder-owned insurance company. INA eventually became the company we know today as Cigna, one of the most renowned health insurance carriers nationwide. Rated as an A company by AM Best and S&P, Cigna has proven itself a worthy Medicare insurance company.
As a Medicare Supplement insurance company, Cigna offers all of the top Medigap plans and a spectacular dental, vision, and hearing plan option for Medicare beneficiaries. Cigna also provides spousal and household discounts in many states nationwide. However, one of Cigna’s perks is its top-rated customer service department. It’s no wonder the carrier is one of the 10 best supplemental insurance companies available.
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| Cigna Pros: | Cigna Cons: |
| Additional perks for policyholders include a 24/7 telehealth line and Healthy Rewards discount programs for living a healthy lifestyle. | Most areas only offer four Medicare Supplement Plan options (Medicare Supplement Plan A, Plan F, Plan G, and Plan N). |
| Cigna offers wide plan availability with policies available in every state. | Cigna’s approval process tends to take longer than other major carriers. |
United American: Best User Experience for a Medicare Insurance Company
United American Insurance Company began in 1947, offering Medicare insurance options since 1966. Currently, the company has grown into one of the largest Medicare supplement companies, maintaining an A+ rating from AM Best and has done so for over 40 years. However, S&P’s rating for United American is AA-.
United American offers many top Medicare Supplement plans but is most well-known for its Medicare Supplement High Deductible Plan F and High Deductible Plan G policies. A key reason why many people on Medicare choose United American is their second policy anniversary rule.
United American’s second policy anniversary rule allows those who enroll in a high-deductible plan to switch to the standard version of their plan on the second anniversary of the policy with no underwriting health questions. This means you cannot face denial due to pre-existing health conditions. Thus, if you have Medicare Supplement High Deductible Plan G with United American and would like to switch to Medigap Plan G through the same carrier, you can do so after two years.
| United American Pros: | United American Cons: |
| Carrier specializes in high-deductible Medicare Supplement plans. They consistently have the lowest premium costs in most areas. | Very few Medicare Supplement plans are available through this carrier in most areas. |
| United American receives some of the highest customer ratings and few customer complaints. | Standard (not high-deductible) Medicare Supplement plan premiums are typically higher than other carriers. |
Capitol Life: Most Widely Affordable Medicare Insurance Company
Capitol Life is an American insurance company founded in 1905, specializing in Medicare supplements and life insurance. The company is highly successful, receiving an A- rating by AM Best and an A rating by S&P.
After over a century in business, Capitol Life remains a reliable Medicare insurance company. Capitol Life is committed to bringing low-cost Medicare Supplement plans to as many people as possible.
| Capitol Life Pros: | Capitol Life Cons: |
| Real-time instant approval is available for some clients who are in good health and answer the application questions thoroughly and honestly. | When completing the application process, you may require a phone health assessment with a Capitol Life representative to determine your health status. |
| Capitol Life tends to receive high rankings from clients. | Capitol Life recently began selling Medicare Supplement plan and are only available in certain states. |
UnitedHealthcare: Simplest Medicare Insurance Company Underwriting Process
UnitedHealthcare has been providing Medicare beneficiaries with Medigap options since the late 1970s. As one of the country’s top two largest insurance companies, UnitedHealthcare is an excellent option when searching for a Medicare insurance company.
UnitedHealthcare is rated as an A company by AM Best and an A+ company by S&P. These ratings accurately represent the company overall. UHC provides quality healthcare to Medicare beneficiaries nationwide with one of the most straightforward Medicare Supplement underwriting processes.
| UnitedHealthcare Pros: | UnitedHealthcare Cons: |
| All Medicare Supplement plans are available in most areas and almost every state. | Higher than average premium prices in some areas. |
| An easy-to-access online portal allows members to check claims, search providers, and manage their plan’s benefits. | UnitedHealthcare premium prices rise at age 75 due to the loss of discounts. |
Manhattan Life: Best Website Experience From a Medicare Insurance Company
Manhattan Life has been insuring Americans for over 170 years. As one of the longest continuously operating insurance companies in the U.S., Manhattan Life continues to satisfy policyholders. Manhattan life holds a B++ rating from AM Best and an A rating from S&P.
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Manhattan Life offers five Medigap plans and a comprehensive dental, vision, and hearing plan. The company is successful in the Medicare realm, with 30+ years of experience. Manhattan Life is dedicated to progressing its technology for an easier user experience.
| Manhattan Life Pros: | Manhattan Life Cons: |
| Manhattan Life provides a household discount for two people in the same household on a Medicare Supplement policy. In most areas, the discount is 7%. | As a company, Manhattan Life only offers 5 Medicare Supplement plan options (Medicare Supplement Plan A, Plan C, Plan F, Plan G, and Plan N). |
| Manhattan Life offers a relaxed underwriting process, allowing those with more health issues access to a Medicare Supplement policy. | Manhattan Life does not offer online quoting, which makes it more difficult for customers to find an accurate premium price on their own. |
Humana: Best Value Medicare Insurance Company
Humana insurance company has been providing Americans with healthcare coverage since 1961. Rated as an A- company by AM Best and a B++ company by S&P, Humana prides itself on affordable healthcare for all enrollees.
As a top-rated Medicare insurance company, Humana offers policyholders various additional benefits. These benefits include SilverSneakers memberships in 47 states and 24/7 access to telehealth doctors.
| Humana Pros: | Humana Cons: |
| Plans through this carrier are widely available, as beneficiaries can enroll in most states. | Humana receives a lower rating from customers than the average Medicare Supplement carrier. |
| Plans through this carrier are widely available, as beneficiaries can enroll in most states. | Monthly premiums may be higher than other companies, depending on your location. |
Blue Cross Blue Shield: Best Medicare Insurance Company Mobile App
Blue Cross Blue Shield has been a prominent insurance company since 1929. Receiving an A rating from AM Best and a B rating from S&P, BCBS is one of the most highly recognized Medicare insurance companies.
Blue Cross Blue Shield focuses on customer satisfaction. The company offers typical Medigap plans and policies bundling dental, vision, and hearing coverage. One of their best assets is an easy-to-use mobile app for customers to track their claims history and payments.
| Blue Cross Blue Shield Pros: | Blue Cross Blue Shield Cons: |
| Customizable Medicare Supplement options can bundle additional benefits into your policy for an extra monthly fee. | Uses several affiliate partners nationwide, so your plan carrier may change if you move to another state. |
| Discounts are available to almost every member (household, spousal, autopay, etc.). | Monthly premiums tend to be higher than other Medicare Supplement plan carriers. |
Bankers Fidelity: Highest Rated Senior Experience with a Medicare Insurance Company
Bankers Fidelity has been serving Seniors on Medicare for over 65 years. With an A- rating from both AM Best and S&P, Bankers Fidelity remains a successful Medicare insurance company.
| Bankers Fidelity Pros: | Bankers Fidelity Cons: |
| Bankers Fidelity offers a large plan selection nationwide. | Medicare Supplement plans are only available in 37 states. This carrier is unavailable in many highly-populated states, such as California, Florida, and New York. |
| The company has been around for several years and has always had a very high rating compared to other insurance companies. | Medicare Supplement plan premiums tend to vary significantly by location. In some areas, plans are priced extremely high, and in others, the monthly premium is very low. |
What is the Highest-Rated Medicare Supplement Insurance Company?
The highest-rated Medicare Supplement company can vary by location, as plan ratings are not the same across states. However, the companies above have the top 10 highest ratings on average throughout the country.
Each carrier has a specialty that makes it unique. However, each also has its pitfalls. Your location and needs as a consumer will determine which carrier is suitable for you.
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How to Find the Best Medicare Insurance Companies in Your Area
The Medicare Supplement policy with the lowest premium rate at enrollment is not necessarily the best choice in the long run. Although the monthly premium is crucial when enrolling in a Medicare Supplement policy, it should not be the only factor you consider.
It is crucial to think about your future experience with the company when enrolling. In some cases, you may be stuck in your plan due to health issues that will not allow you to pass underwriting health questions. If this is the case, you want your policy to stand the test of time.
Overall, you will benefit from selecting a policy from an established company. The insurance company you choose is just as vital as the standardized Medigap plan in which you enroll.
While every carrier on our list of top 10 Medicare Supplement insurance companies offers competitive rates, one may be better for you than the others. There are many top-rated Medicare Supplement companies to choose from, and our Medicare experts can work with you to help you make the right decision.
Our agents can access the most popular Medigap plans! So, instead of calling each company for a quote, they can help you explore all your options simultaneously. If you are considering buying a Medicare Supplement plan, call our agents at the number above to get the best coverage in your area.
Don't have time to call today? Fill out an online rate comparison form, and an agent will reach out to you to discuss the top Medicare Supplement insurance companies in your area.
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Jagger,
Do you have individual consultants fees, and if so, what’s your rate?
Hi John. Our services are 100% free to you. Our agents offer education on top plans in your area and will provide you with a side by side plan comparison at no charge to you.
I will be 65 in November and am looking at Medigap plans. When I initially enroll in a Medigap plan during my enrollment eligibility period, will I need to go through underwriting? Does underwriting apply if I change plans during a subsequent enrollment period? Does underwriting apply to Medicare Advantage plans?
Susan, when you initially enroll in a Medigap plan during your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period, you will not need to go through underwriting. This is your once in a lifetime chance to enroll in the plan of your choice regardless of your health. If you decide to change plans, you can do so up to six months after your 65th birthday without medical underwriting.
What insurance company is noted for low / steady increases in their premiums historically between Aetna and Aarp UnitedHealth Care. I live in Ohio and is community rated better then attained?
Carol, Aetna and AARP are both great supplemental carriers. Depending on your zip code, premium prices could differ. If you are interested in the exact rates for your area, our licensed agents can help give you those quotes. Fill out our rate form to compare!
What are your thoughts on UnitedHealthcare AARP? I’m currently with them as an Advantage PPO plan. I understand I can switch to a Plan F or G, correct?
Ana, each carrier has different strengths and the best way to find the right carrier for you is to determine your individual needs with a licensed agent. Changing from a Medicare Advantage Plan can only be done during an enrollment period. If you plan on changing to a Medigap, you would generally need to pass underwriting health questions. To be sure of your eligibility, complete our online form to speak with a licensed agent.
No mention of premiums. Mutual of Omaha raises their rates annually and they are crooks. Mine stared at $97/mo at 65 increases amount to at $174/mo at 69. Large increases last two years 2020 increased by $34/mo now for 2021 increased by $28/mo these increases are alot. From the $97/mo to the $174/mo in four years. Take a look at those rates when you rate these insurance companies.
Hi Charlotte! Thank you so much for sharing this information. This is very useful for others who are researching carriers. It’s important to keep in mind that rate increases are based on many different factors. It’s possible that you saw a rate increase this high, but others in a different state did not.
I’m turning 65 in March and am domiciled in TX, but spend a lot of time in AZ. We get all our medical care in AZ. I signed up for Medicare part A and B. Both will be effective March 2021. I have 2 questions:
1. Do I have to get a Medigap plan G in TX or can I choose to get one in AZ (especially considering issue-age pricing in AZ gives me better pricing especially long-term)?
2. If I do have to sign up in TX, and I go with a company that offers plan G in both states (TX & AZ) can I at some point in the future if we change our domicile switch from the TX plan G to the AZ plan G without underwriting if is with the same company, i.e. just get new pricing?
Hello Pa Le! Thank you for your question. 1) You’ll want to sign up in the state you do your taxes. 2) Most carriers will take the plan with you across state lines and the price will adjust over time accordingly. It’s important to go with a larger carrier, such as Mutual of Omaha, Aetna, or Cigna, to get this option. We have another FAQ article that goes over dual-residency for Medicare beneficiaries that provides additional information. I hope this helps!
Thank you! One follow-up question: If I move from one state (TX) where I have a plan G to another state (AZ), can a get a new Plan G in AZ WITHOUT Medical underwriting? I.e. Does an out-of-state move give me Guaranteed Issue rights for a plan G?
You’re welcome! Since Medigap plans travel with you, you would not need to change plans because you moved. Your plan will travel with you from Texas to Arizona. However, you may be able to find a lower rate for the same plan with a different carrier. You can compare rates when you move, but you would have to go through medical underwriting. If you’re overall healthy, you shouldn’t have an issue with switching carriers.
Two questions: (1) Can companies that offer supplement plans deny enrollment on the basis of pre-existing conditions? (2) I am thinking of switching from my Plan J (no longer offered) to a different plan. Is it still true that i can get a plan with the same or fewer benefits, but not one with more benefits? I have had original medicare since 2005. Thanks.
Hi Mary! Thank you for your questions! 1) Yes, supplement companies can deny you coverage due to pre-existing conditions when enrolling outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. 2) Plan J was discontinued because it essentially was the same plan as Plan F, which is the plan that offers the most benefits. You’re eligible to switch to Plan F or any other plan of your choice. However, unless you have state-specific rules that apply to Plan J, you will still have to answer health questions to switch to a different Medigap plan. You could be denied coverage due to a pre-existing condition. Keep in mind, not all carriers will deny you for the same reasons. Just because one carrier denied your coverage doesn’t mean all of them will. I would recommend giving us a call. We can pull all the plans in your area and determine if any pre-existing conditions you have will impact your approval odds. You may find that Plan F has a lower premium than your current Plan J.
I am thinking of having knee replacement surgery. Right now I’m just getting shots every 3 months. They don’t last that long but they do help. My insurance is Humana Choice (PPO). Do you or can you tell me what my out of pocket cost will be if I have the surgery. Or a ball park number. I live in Waco, Tx. I just left my DR.s office. We talked about it and he told me to think about it. If I opt not to have the surgery I can continue with the shots. I would like to have some idea what it would cost me.
Hi Diana! Humana Choice is an Advantage plan. The carrier is who determines how much you will pay out of pocket, it’s not standardized by the federal government like Medicare Supplement plans are. You will need to contact Humana directly to find out how much your out of pocket costs will be for knee replacement surgery. Unfortunately, there is no way for us to look it up for you.
My husband and I currently have Mutual of Omaha Plan G. Rates are going up 16%. Tried switching to Aetna. Was declined due to either my one med, flecainide or my ablation a year ago. Is there an insurance that we could get? Same plan but certainly lower premiums.
Hi Judy! Some carriers will deny you for a reason that another carrier would not. Your best option is to give us a call so we can pull up all the carriers that offer Plan G in your area. Each carrier offers different plans in each state. Our agents will know which carriers will deny your policy for taking those medications & which carriers would approve your policy.
Do these supplemental plans cover Milrinone since our Medicare plan has a $16.58 per day co-pay which we cannot afford
Hi Cynthia! Is Milrinone administered at the doctors’ office? If so, that would probably be covered under Part B. I’m thinking the $16.58 is the 20% copay you’re left responsible for. If this is the case, then yes, a Medigap plan would cover that 20% copay. Any medication taken at home would be covered under Part D.
My wife is 65 and will be as of 12/25/2018. we live in Idaho 6 months and Mississippi 6 months. Humana choice is what we currently have. half the time we are out of network with our insurance. looking for a F plan with 0 copay and deductible, could you please adise.
Hi Jerry! This is a common issue with Medicare Advantage Plans. Regardless of the carrier you go with, all standard Plan F benefits will remain the same and have a $0 copay and deductible. The only difference will be the premium your carrier charges for the plan. You’ll have nationwide coverage, so you can use the plan in Idaho as well as Mississippi.
My husband is retired military with Tricare for Life on both of us as secondary to our required by social security Medicare parts A&B. Who has the best supplement for us to cover dental, vision, hearing.
Hi Joyce! That depends on many factors, like your location. If you give us a call, we’ll be able to collect the information needed to provide you with the carriers that offer dental, vision, and hearing in your area.