Medicare supplemental plans, also called Medigap, are designed to fill the gaps left by Original Medicare. They help cover costs like deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance. The most popular plans Plan G and Plan N will remain top choices in 2026. Plan G continues to cover five out of six gaps in Medicare, while Plan N covers four. The difference? Plan G offers more comprehensive coverage but comes with a higher premium. Plan N offers lower monthly costs but includes co-pays and possible excess charges for certain services.

Now, let’s talk about costs. The Part B deductible currently $257 in 2025 is expected to rise in 2026. And while exact numbers haven’t been finalized, premiums for supplemental plans have already seen increases of up to 40% in some areas. Plan G remains the gold standard for those who want nearly full coverage, but Plan N can be a better fit for those looking to save monthly while still maintaining strong protection.

One thing that won’t change: flexibility. Supplemental plans don’t replace Medicare — they work alongside it. You can see any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare nationwide, with no network restrictions and no need for referrals. These plans are also portable and lifetime policies, meaning as long as you pay your premiums, your coverage won’t be canceled or downgraded.

If you’re new to Medicare, the best time to enroll in a supplemental plan is during your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period (OEP), which begins the month you start Part B. During this window, you can’t be denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions. After OEP, most people will need to go through medical underwriting, where health status can affect approval or cost. A few states like California and Oregon offer “birthday rules,” letting you switch plans each year without new medical questions.

Looking ahead to 2026, budgeting for healthcare will be more important than ever. The Part B premium is projected to increase from $185 to around $206.50, and Part D drug plan premiums could rise by as much as $50 per month. Supplemental plan premiums are also expected to increase, so reviewing your plan’s value each year is essential.

Despite these changes, several important benefits remain the same. Supplemental plans will still be standardized, which means a Plan G from one company covers the same benefits as a Plan G from another the only difference is price. You’ll still have the freedom to see any Medicare-accepting provider, and you’ll still need a separate Part D plan for prescription coverage. Eight states will continue banning “excess charges,” providing added protection from surprise medical bills.

Speaking of drug coverage, Part D is also changing. The deductible could reach as high as $615 in 2025, and that number will likely rise slightly in 2026. Generic medications (tiers 1 and 2) are usually exempt, but higher-tier drugs like brand-name or specialty prescriptions will require paying the full deductible before coverage begins. After that, you’ll enter the initial coverage phase, paying 25% of medication costs. The catastrophic cap, set at $2,000 in 2025, will rise slightly to $2,100 in 2026, meaning you won’t pay more than that annually out-of-pocket for prescriptions.

Another important factor is IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount). If you have higher income, you could face increased premiums for Part B and Part D based on your tax return from two years prior. The 2026 IRMAA brackets are expected to shift upward, so those near income thresholds should plan carefully to avoid crossing into a higher premium bracket.

At the end of the day, choosing the right Medicare plan is about balance between cost, flexibility, and peace of mind. Supplemental plans remain the most comprehensive option for people who want nationwide access and predictable out-of-pocket expenses. But for some, Medicare Advantage may still be a better fit, especially if lower premiums and added benefits like dental and vision are priorities.

If you’re unsure which route to take, don’t go it alone. A licensed Medicare advisor can help you compare options and find a plan that fits your needs both for 2026 and the years ahead.

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