When it comes to choosing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, two options consistently rise to the top: Plan G and Plan N. Both offer strong coverage that fills the gaps left by Original Medicare — but they do it differently, and the right choice depends on your health needs, budget, and how often you visit the doctor.
In this head-to-head comparison, we will break down the differences in coverage, costs, and the pros and cons of each plan so you can make a confident, informed decision about your medicare plan n vs plan g options.
Already familiar with the basics? Great. If not, start with our Medigap Explained: A Beginners Guide for a full overview of how Medicare Supplement plans work.
What Do Plan G and Plan N Have in Common?
Before diving into the differences, it helps to know that Plan G and Plan N share a strong foundation of coverage. Both plans cover:
- Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to 365 additional days after Medicare benefits are used)
- Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment
- First three pints of blood
- Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
- Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
- Medicare Part A deductible ($1,676 in 2025)
- 80% of foreign travel emergency care
That is a significant amount of shared coverage. The differences — while important — come down to a few specific areas.
Key Differences Between Plan G and Plan N
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part B Excess Charges | ✓ Covered 100% | ✗ Not Covered |
| Office Visit Copay | $0 | Up to $20 |
| ER Copay (no admission) | $0 | Up to $50 |
| Monthly Premium (avg age 65) | ~$144/mo | ~$110-135/mo |
| Part B Deductible ($240) | ✗ You pay | ✗ You pay |
| Best For | Maximum predictability | Budget-conscious & healthy |
Plan G: The Pros and Cons
Pros of Plan G
- Most comprehensive coverage available to new Medicare beneficiaries (post-2020)
- No copays for doctor visits or ER trips
- Part B excess charges covered — protects you if a doctor charges more than the Medicare-approved amount
- Maximum predictability — your only out-of-pocket cost is the annual Part B deductible ($240)
Cons of Plan G
- Higher monthly premiums — typically $30-50 more per month than Plan N
- Does not cover the Part B deductible — you will pay $240 per year out of pocket
Plan N: The Pros and Cons
Pros of Plan N
- Lower monthly premiums — can save $360-600+ per year compared to Plan G
- Strong core coverage — covers the same major benefits as Plan G
- Copays are small and capped — max $20 per office visit, $50 per ER visit without admission
Cons of Plan N
- Part B excess charges not covered — if your doctor does not accept Medicare assignment, you could pay up to 15% more
- Small copays add up — frequent doctor visits mean more out-of-pocket spending
- Less predictable costs than Plan G
Who Should Choose Plan G?
Plan G is the right fit if you:
- See specialists or doctors frequently
- Want the most predictable, worry-free coverage
- Live in a state where excess charges are common
- Have chronic conditions requiring regular medical attention
- Value peace of mind over saving a few dollars monthly
Who Should Choose Plan N?
Plan N makes more sense if you:
- Are generally healthy and visit the doctor infrequently
- Want to keep monthly premiums as low as possible
- Live in a state that limits or prohibits excess charges (like Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, or Vermont)
- Are comfortable with small, predictable copays at office visits
Real-World Scenarios
Scenario 1: Margaret, Age 67 — Frequent Doctor Visits
Margaret manages diabetes and high blood pressure. She sees her primary care doctor monthly and visits specialists quarterly. With 16+ doctor visits per year, Plan N copays would cost her $320+ annually on top of her premium. Plan G saves Margaret money and stress — she pays her Part B deductible once and nothing else.
Scenario 2: Robert, Age 66 — Healthy and Active
Robert is in excellent health, exercises daily, and sees his doctor twice a year for checkups. His Plan N copays would total about $40 annually. With the premium savings of $400+ per year, Plan N is the clear winner for Robert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Plan N to Plan G later?
You can apply to switch anytime, but outside your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, you will likely face medical underwriting. If your health has changed, approval is not guaranteed. This is why many advisors recommend starting with Plan G if you are on the fence.
Do all doctors accept Medicare assignment?
Most do — over 97% of physicians accept Medicare. But if yours does not, Plan G protects you from excess charges while Plan N does not.
Is Plan G worth the extra cost?
It depends on how often you use healthcare. If you see doctors frequently or have chronic conditions, the extra $30-50 per month often pays for itself in avoided copays and excess charge protection.
Ready to Compare Plans and Rates?
The best plan for you depends on your health, your doctors, and your budget. At eMedicareGuide.com, our licensed agents compare rates from top carriers to find your best fit — at no cost to you.
Call 1-888-781-6026 for a free, personalized Medicare Supplement comparison
Or visit eMedicareGuide.com to get your quote today.