Choosing between Medicare Supplement Plan G and Plan N is one of the most common decisions Medicare beneficiaries face in 2026. Both plans offer excellent coverage — but they differ in premium cost, out-of-pocket exposure, and how doctor visits are billed. This guide breaks down every difference so you can choose with confidence.
Plan G vs. Plan N at a Glance (2026)
| Benefit | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part A Deductible ($1,736) | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Part B Deductible ($257) | ❌ Not Covered | ❌ Not Covered |
| Part B Excess Charges | ✅ Covered | ❌ Not Covered |
| Part A Hospice Coinsurance | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Skilled Nursing Coinsurance | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Part B Copay (office visits) | ✅ No Copay | Up to $20 copay |
| ER Copay (no admission) | ✅ No Copay | Up to $50 copay |
| Foreign Travel Emergency | ✅ Covered | ✅ Covered |
| Average Monthly Premium | $150–$180 | $100–$140 |
What Does Plan G Cover?
Plan G covers everything Original Medicare doesn’t — except the Part B deductible ($257 in 2026). Once you pay that annual deductible, Plan G picks up 100% of Medicare-approved costs for the rest of the year. No copays, no coinsurance, no surprise bills.
Plan G also covers Part B excess charges — the extra amount some doctors charge above what Medicare approves. This protection is unique to Plan G (and the legacy Plan F) and can save you hundreds of dollars if you see specialists who don’t accept Medicare assignment.
What Does Plan N Cover?
Plan N covers nearly everything Plan G does, with two key differences:
- Office visit copays: You may pay up to $20 per doctor visit
- ER copays: Up to $50 for emergency room visits where you’re not admitted
- No excess charge protection: If a doctor charges above Medicare rates, you pay the difference
The tradeoff? Plan N premiums are typically $30–$50/month lower than Plan G. If you rarely visit the doctor and your providers all accept Medicare assignment, Plan N can be a smart money-saving choice.
Plan G vs. Plan N: True Cost Comparison for 2026
| Cost Factor | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium (avg) | $165 | $120 |
| Annual Premium | $1,980 | $1,440 |
| Part B Deductible | $257 | $257 |
| Copays (est. 12 visits) | $0 | $240 |
| Excess Charges (potential) | $0 | $0–$300+ |
| Estimated Annual Total | $2,237 | $1,937–$2,237 |
Key takeaway: If you’re healthy and visit the doctor fewer than 6 times per year, Plan N may save you $300–$500 annually. If you see specialists frequently or want zero out-of-pocket surprises, Plan G is the safer bet.
Who Should Choose Plan G?
- You want predictable costs with virtually no out-of-pocket expenses
- You see specialists who may charge excess charges
- You have chronic conditions requiring frequent doctor visits
- You travel and want foreign travel emergency coverage
- You value peace of mind over saving $30–$50/month
Who Should Choose Plan N?
- You’re in good health and rarely visit the doctor
- Your doctors all accept Medicare assignment (no excess charges)
- You’re comfortable with small copays ($20 per visit)
- You want the lowest possible premium for strong coverage
- You’re budget-conscious and don’t mind minor out-of-pocket costs
Can You Switch From Plan N to Plan G Later?
Yes — but there’s a catch. If you’re outside your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (the first 6 months after enrolling in Part B at age 65+), insurance companies can require medical underwriting. That means they can deny you or charge higher rates based on your health history.
This is one reason many advisors recommend starting with Plan G — it’s easier to “downgrade” to Plan N later if you want to save money, but harder to “upgrade” from N to G if your health changes.
Plan G vs. Plan N: The Bottom Line for 2026
Plan G is the gold standard of Medigap coverage — maximum protection with minimum hassle. Plan N is the smart budget pick if you’re healthy and strategic about your healthcare.
Either way, the best plan is the one that matches your health, your budget, and your comfort level with risk. We can help you compare actual rates from top carriers in your area.
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