Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans 2026
Last reviewed: June 2026 · Reviewed by Galit Sacajiu MD, MPH
Medicare Supplement insurance — also called Medigap — fills the "gaps" in Original Medicare (Parts A and B), covering costs like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance that you'd otherwise pay out of pocket.
Key fact: All Medigap policies are standardized. A Plan G from Company A covers exactly the same benefits as a Plan G from Company B — so you can shop purely on price and the insurer's reliability.
Compare Medigap Plans
Covers Part A coinsurance and Part B coinsurance/copays. The most basic option.
Plan A benefits plus Part A deductible coverage.
Covers Part A costs, Part B coinsurance, foreign travel emergency. No Part B deductible.
Covers nearly everything except the Part B deductible ($283 in 2026). Best overall value for most enrollees.
Similar to Plan G but you pay up to $20 copay for doctor visits and $50 for ER visits. Lower monthly premiums.
Pays 50% of most costs. Has a lower premium and an out-of-pocket cap.
Pays 75% of most costs. Has a lower premium and an out-of-pocket cap.
When to Enroll
The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month period that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Part B. During this window, insurers cannot charge you more or deny coverage based on your health history.
After this window, insurers in most states can use medical underwriting, meaning you could be charged higher premiums or denied coverage based on pre-existing conditions.
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage
| Medigap + Original Medicare | Medicare Advantage | |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor choice | Any Medicare-accepting doctor | Network only (HMO) or preferred (PPO) |
| Monthly cost | Higher premium, fewer surprises | Often $0, but copays at point of care |
| Drug coverage | Add Part D separately | Usually included |
| Dental/Vision | Not included | Often included |
| Out-of-pocket limit | Plan-dependent | Required by law (up to $9,350) |
| Referrals | Not required | Required for HMOs |