If you are on Original Medicare, you already know it does not cover everything. Between deductibles, coinsurance, and copays, your out-of-pocket costs can add up quickly. That is exactly why Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) exists — to fill the gaps that Original Medicare leaves behind.
This guide is your central resource for understanding all 10 standardized Medigap plans. Whether you are turning 65 or helping a loved one navigate their options, this page will give you the complete picture.
What Is Medigap?
Medigap is supplemental insurance sold by private companies that helps pay for out-of-pocket costs that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not fully cover. These costs include deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
Key facts about Medigap:
- Plans are standardized by the federal government — Plan G from one company covers the exact same benefits as Plan G from another
- You must have Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) to enroll
- Medigap does not include prescription drug coverage — you need a separate Part D plan
- You can see any doctor who accepts Medicare — no network restrictions
- Premiums vary by carrier, location, age, and gender — even though benefits are identical
All 10 Standardized Medigap Plans at a Glance
There are 10 standardized Medigap plans, each identified by a letter:
| Benefit | A | B | C* | D | F* | G | K | L | M | N |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Part A Coinsurance & Hospital | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Part B Coinsurance/Copay | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes** |
| Blood (First 3 Pints) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes |
| Part A Hospice Care | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes |
| Skilled Nursing Facility | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | Yes | Yes |
| Part A Deductible ($1,676) | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | 50% | 75% | 50% | Yes |
| Part B Deductible ($240) | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Part B Excess Charges | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Foreign Travel Emergency | No | No | 80% | 80% | 80% | 80% | No | No | 80% | 80% |
| Out-of-Pocket Limit | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $7,220 | $3,610 | N/A | N/A |
*Plans C and F are only available to those who became Medicare-eligible before January 1, 2020.
**Plan N charges copays of up to $20 for office visits and up to $50 for ER visits that do not result in admission.
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Understanding Each Plan
Plans A and B — The Basics
Plan A offers the core Medigap benefits: Part A coinsurance, Part B coinsurance, blood, and hospice care. It does not cover deductibles, skilled nursing, excess charges, or foreign travel.
Plan B adds Part A deductible coverage ($1,676 in 2025) to Plan A benefits. Still no skilled nursing, excess charges, or foreign travel coverage.
These plans have the lowest premiums but leave you exposed to more out-of-pocket costs.
Plans C and F — Legacy Comprehensive Plans
Important: Plans C and F are no longer available to anyone who became Medicare-eligible on or after January 1, 2020. If you were eligible before that date, you can still enroll.
Plan F was the most comprehensive Medigap plan ever offered — it covered everything, including the Part B deductible. Plan C covered everything except Part B excess charges.
A high-deductible version of Plan F is also available (annual deductible: $2,870 in 2025).
Plans D and G — The Popular Picks
Plan G is now the most popular Medigap plan in the country. It covers everything except the annual Part B deductible ($240 in 2025). After paying that one deductible, you have virtually zero out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-covered services.
Plan D is similar to Plan G but does not cover Part B excess charges. It is a solid choice in states where excess charging is rare.
A high-deductible version of Plan G is also available ($2,870 annual deductible in 2025).
Read our detailed Plan G vs. Plan N analysis for a deep dive on the two most popular options.
Plans K and L — Cost-Sharing Plans
Plan K covers most benefits at 50% and has an annual out-of-pocket limit of $7,220. Once you hit that limit, the plan pays 100% for the rest of the year.
Plan L covers most benefits at 75% with a lower out-of-pocket limit of $3,610.
These plans offer lower premiums in exchange for higher cost-sharing — a good fit if you want catastrophic protection on a budget.
Plans M and N — Budget-Friendly Options
Plan M covers the Part A deductible at 50% and does not cover Part B excess charges or the Part B deductible. It includes foreign travel emergency coverage.
Plan N is the second most popular Medigap plan. It covers nearly everything Plan G covers, with two differences: no Part B excess charge coverage and small copays (up to $20 for office visits, up to $50 for ER visits not resulting in admission).
Plan N premiums are typically $20-40/month less than Plan G, making it attractive for healthy, budget-conscious beneficiaries.
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage
Medigap and Medicare Advantage are two very different approaches to Medicare coverage. You cannot have both at the same time.
- Medigap works with Original Medicare — you see any doctor who accepts Medicare, anywhere in the country. You pay a monthly premium for predictable, comprehensive coverage.
- Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that often includes drug coverage, dental, and vision. However, you are limited to a provider network and face varying copays and out-of-pocket maximums.
Learn more in our Medicare Advantage guide.
When Can You Enroll in Medigap?
Your best opportunity is your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window that starts the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period:
- Insurance companies cannot deny you coverage
- They cannot charge you more due to health conditions
- You have guaranteed issue rights to any Medigap plan sold in your state
After this window closes, insurers can use medical underwriting — meaning they can deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health history.
How to Choose the Right Plan
Ask yourself these questions:
- How often do I see doctors? — Frequent visitors benefit from Plan G comprehensive coverage
- Is my budget tight? — Plans N, K, or L offer lower premiums with more cost-sharing
- Do my doctors accept Medicare assignment? — If yes, Plan N excess charge gap is not an issue
- Do I travel internationally? — Plans C, D, F, G, M, and N include foreign travel emergency coverage
- Do I want maximum predictability? — Plan G gives you the most predictable costs
Get Expert Help Choosing Your Medigap Plan
With 10 plans and dozens of carriers, finding the right Medigap plan can feel overwhelming. Our licensed advisors at eMedicareGuide.com compare rates across multiple insurance companies to find your best fit — and our service is 100% free.
Ready to find your perfect Medigap plan?
Call 1-888-781-6026 or Get a Free Quote Online