Medigap, also called Medicare Supplement insurance, helps cover costs that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not fully pay. These include deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance.
In 2026, Medigap plans remain standardized by the federal government, so a specific plan letter offers the same core benefits no matter which company sells it. You must have Original Medicare to enroll.
Two of the most popular choices for seniors are Plan G and Plan N. Both provide strong coverage, but they differ in cost structure and how much you may pay when you receive care.
Understanding these differences helps you choose the best fit for your situation in 2026.
Calculate Your 2026 COLA Increase →What Does Medigap Plan G Cover
Plan G is one of the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plans available to new enrollees. It covers nearly all out‑of‑pocket costs associated with Original Medicare after you pay the Medicare Part B deductible. Plan G covers:
- Part A deductible and coinsurance
- Part B coinsurance
- Skilled nursing facility care costs
- Part B excess charges
- Foreign travel emergency care up to plan limits
One key benefit is that Plan G covers Part B excess charges, which can occur when a provider charges more than the Medicare approved amount.
What Does Medigap Plan N Cover
Plan N provides very similar coverage to Plan G, but with some cost‑sharing. It covers most of the same benefits, including:
- Part A deductible and coinsurance
- Part B coinsurance
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Foreign travel emergency care
However, Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges. Instead of covering all outpatient costs fully, it requires small copays for certain services:
- Up to $20 for doctor office visits
- Up to $50 for emergency room visits (if not admitted)
These copays are paid at the time of service and are the main cost difference between Plan N and Plan G.
Cost Comparison in 2026
The biggest reason many people choose Plan N in 2026 is cost. Because Plan N requires copays and does not cover excess charges, insurers generally charge lower monthly premiums compared with Plan G.
Examples of premium ranges in some U.S. cities illustrate this difference:
- In Los Angeles, CA, Plan G can range roughly from about $166 to $1,318 per month, while Plan N may range from about $127 to $966 per month.
- In Chicago, IL, Plan G premiums often range higher than Plan N premiums.
These are typical patterns, but exact costs depend on your location, age, and insurer.
Coverage Differences Explained
Because both plans cover most Medigap benefits, the key coverage differences come down to two items:
1. Part B Excess Charges
Plan G pays these charges. Plan N does not. Excess charges are not extremely common, but they can occur if a provider does not accept Medicare assignment.
2. Copayments for Certain Visits
Plan N requires copays for some doctor and emergency room visits. Plan G does not have these copay requirements.
If you rarely visit doctors or emergency departments, those copays may be minimal compared to the premium savings. However, if you expect frequent care, those costs can add up.
Predictability of Costs
Plan G is more predictable because most costs after the Part B deductible are covered. This means fewer surprise bills when you receive care.
Plan N has some variability due to copays and the possibility of excess charges. If you see providers who do not accept Medicare assignment, you may pay additional costs.
However, many doctors in most states accept Medicare assignment, reducing the risk of excess charges.
Who Benefits Most from Plan G
Plan G is often better for people who:
- Want nearly full coverage of out‑of‑pocket costs after the deductible.
- Prefer predictable medical expenses.
- See specialists or expect higher medical usage.
- Are concerned about potential excess charges.
It tends to cost more in monthly premiums, but provides broader financial protection.
Who Benefits Most from Plan N
Plan N is often better for people who:
- Want lower monthly premiums.
- Are generally healthy and visit doctors infrequently.
- Are comfortable with small copays for visits.
- Do not expect excess charges or routinely plan to use providers who accept Medicare assignment.
Because of its lower premiums, Plan N may save money overall if your out‑of‑pocket costs for copays are low.
Does Either Plan Include Prescription Drug Coverage
Neither Plan G nor Plan N includes Medicare prescription drug coverage.
To cover medications, you must enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan. Medigap plans only supplement Original Medicare.
When Can You Buy These Plans
The best time to enroll in any Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins when you are 65 and enrolled in Medicare Part B.
During this six‑month period, insurers cannot deny coverage or charge more due to pre‑existing conditions. After this period, medical underwriting may apply.
Can You Switch Between Plans
Yes, you can apply to switch from Plan N to Plan G or vice versa.
However, after the open enrollment window, insurers may require health screenings or charge higher premiums based on your health history.
Do Both Plans Have Annual Out‑of‑Pocket Limits
No. Medigap plans, including Plan G and Plan N, do not have an annual out‑of‑pocket maximum like some Medicare Advantage plans.
Coverage continues as long as you pay premiums, but you are still responsible for copays under Plan N and any uncovered costs.
