Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Help

Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) pays the deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments that Original Medicare leaves behind. Here is how Medigap works, how to compare modern plans, and when to apply for guaranteed coverage.

Compare All 8 Modern Medigap Plans (A, B, D, G, K, L, M, N)

*Plan N covers 100% of Part B coinsurance, except for copayments up to $20 for office visits and up to $50 for ER visits that don't result in admission.

When to Apply for Medigap

The single best time to buy Medigap is during your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period. This one-time window begins the first month you are 65 or older and enrolled in Part B.

• Insurers cannot deny you coverage or delay coverage start dates.
• Insurers cannot charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions or medical history.
• No health questionnaires or medical underwriting exams required.

Common Medigap Misconceptions

• "I can easily switch Medigap policies at any time."
  Reality: Outside of your initial 6-month window or special guaranteed issue circumstances, carriers can evaluate your medical history and decline enrollment.
• "More expensive carriers offer superior medical coverage."
  Reality: By law, Plan G provides the exact same core benefits whether bought through Mutual of Omaha, Aetna, Cigna, or a regional insurer.
• "Medigap covers my retail pharmacy prescriptions."
  Reality: Medigap plans do not include Part D drug benefits. You must purchase a standalone Medicare Part D policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Medicare Supplement insurance (Medigap)?

Medicare Supplement insurance (Medigap) is private insurance that helps pay certain out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn’t cover, such as deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance—depending on the plan.

2. Does Medigap work with Medicare Advantage?

No. Medigap works with Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). If you have Medicare Advantage (Part C), you generally cannot use a Medigap plan to cover Medicare Advantage costs.

3. What does Medigap typically cover?

Coverage varies by plan, but Medigap may help cover Original Medicare out-of-pocket costs like Part A coinsurance, Part B coinsurance or copayments, and certain deductibles. Your exact benefits depend on the Medigap plan type you choose.

4. Do I need a separate Part D plan if I have Medigap?

Often, yes. Medigap plans generally do not include prescription drug coverage, so many people pair Original Medicare + Medigap with a standalone Medicare Part D plan.

5. When is the best time to enroll in a Medigap plan?

Many people look at Medigap during their Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which typically starts when you are 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. Rules can vary by state, so it’s helpful to confirm timing for your situation.

6. How do I choose between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

A Medicare agent can help you compare differences such as provider networks, predictable costs, out-of-pocket limits, and prescription drug needs. The best fit depends on your budget, doctors, travel habits, and health needs.

7. Can I be denied Medigap coverage later?

In some situations outside your initial enrollment protections, Medigap applications may involve medical underwriting depending on your state and circumstances. It’s best to ask a licensed agent about your options and timing.

8. How can I find a Medigap agent near me?

Use Find My Medicare Agent to search by ZIP code and compare agents who list Medigap (Medicare Supplement) as a specialty. You can browse anonymously and contact an agent directly when you’re ready.