Which Medicare Supplemental Plan Is Right for You?
Choosing the right Medicare coverage can feel like a maze, but understanding the differences between Plan G and Plan N can help you make a smart and confident decision. These are two of the most popular Medicare supplemental plans, and for good reason—they both fill the gaps that Original Medicare leaves behind.
Let’s walk through the key features, costs, and benefits of each plan so you can decide which one best fits your health needs and budget.
Understanding Your Medicare Options
When it comes to Medicare, you generally have three options:
- Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) only
- Original Medicare paired with a supplemental (Medigap) plan
- A Medicare Advantage plan offered by a private insurance company
Original Medicare by itself leaves you exposed to a lot of out-of-pocket expenses. That’s why most people choose to add a Medigap plan like Plan G or Plan N to help reduce those liabilities.
While Medicare Advantage plans may seem convenient, they come with provider networks and coverage limits. Supplemental plans, on the other hand, offer nationwide coverage and predictable costs, making them a favorite among retirees who want flexibility and peace of mind.
What Makes Supplemental Plans So Valuable?
Medicare supplemental plans work alongside Original Medicare to cover what it doesn’t—like hospital deductibles, skilled nursing facility copays, and the 20% coinsurance on outpatient care.
Here are some of the benefits that apply to both Plan G and Plan N:
- Access to any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare, with no referrals needed
- Nationwide coverage, ideal for snowbirds or frequent travelers
- No pre-authorization requirements for care
- Fixed monthly premiums with predictable out-of-pocket costs
- Lifetime guaranteed renewability (as long as you pay your premiums)
And best of all, your doctor—not your insurance company—decides what’s medically necessary.
The Gaps in Original Medicare
Before comparing Plan G and Plan N, it helps to understand what they’re designed to cover. Here are some common gaps in Medicare:
- Part A: $1,676 deductible for hospital stays, plus daily charges for longer stays
- Skilled nursing: $250 per day after 20 days
- Part B: $257 annual deductible (for 2025), plus 20% coinsurance on doctor visits and outpatient services
- Excess charges: Up to 15% above Medicare’s approved amount (if a doctor doesn’t accept assignment)
Plans G and N are designed to protect you from most—or all—of these out-of-pocket costs.
Plan G vs. Plan N: What’s the Difference?
Plan G is the most comprehensive Medigap plan available to new enrollees. It covers all of Medicare’s gaps except for the Part B deductible. Once you meet that $257 deductible, you’ll pay nothing out of pocket for Medicare-approved services.
Plan N, on the other hand, covers nearly as much—but with a few differences:
- You still pay the $257 Part B deductible
- You may be responsible for excess charges (up to 15%)
- You’ll have copays: up to $20 for doctor visits and $50 for ER visits (if not admitted)
So, what’s the trade-off? Plan N generally comes with lower premiums, making it attractive if you’re comfortable with occasional small out-of-pocket expenses.
Premium Comparison for Plan G and Plan N
Premiums vary by location, age, and gender. For example, in Dallas, Texas:
- Plan G:
- Female, age 65: $115–$240/month
- Male, age 65: $125–$155/month
- Plan N:
- Female, age 65: $80–$120/month
- Male, age 65: $90–$125/month
Choosing Plan N could save you around $35 a month, or $420 per year. But those savings come with some exposure to small copays and the rare possibility of excess charges.
How to Compare Plans in Your Area
There’s a free tool called MedigapCompare.com that makes plan shopping easier. Just enter your zip code, date of birth, and gender to get real-time quotes. It’s a great way to explore your options without talking to a salesperson right away.
What Should You Consider When Choosing?
Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- How often do you visit the doctor? If it’s frequent, Plan G’s higher premium may be worth it.
- Are you comfortable with small out-of-pocket costs? If yes, Plan N may be a better value.
- What’s your monthly budget? Saving $30–$40 per month can add up over time.
- How stable is the insurance company? Some carriers raise rates more frequently. A good brokerage can help you pick a company with strong rate stability.
The Bottom Line
Plan G offers more comprehensive coverage and peace of mind. Plan N trades a little coverage for a lower monthly premium. Neither plan is objectively better—they’re just different, and the right choice depends on your personal situation.
If you’re unsure, speak with a Medicare expert or use comparison tools to narrow it down. A smart choice today could save you thousands over your retirement years.
Suggested Supporting Resources:
- Medicare.gov: What’s Medigap?
- MedigapCompare.com – Search quotes by ZIP code and age
- SSA.gov: Medicare Enrollment Information
