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.
Need Help Understanding Your Medicare Options?
Our licensed Medicare experts can help you find the right coverage for your needs.