What Is a Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap)?
A Medicare Supplement plan, also known as a Medigap policy, is private insurance that helps pay some of the out-of-pocket costs that are not covered by Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). These costs can include copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
With a Medigap plan, Medicare pays its share of approved medical costs first. Then your supplement is paid based on the benefits of the plan you selected. Depending on the plan letter, this can greatly reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Medigap plans work in conjunction with Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and do not include prescription drug coverage.
When Is the Best Time to Enroll?
You can apply for a Medicare Supplement plan at any time during the year. However, the best time to enroll is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period. The Medigap Open Enrollment period is a six-month window that begins when you are age 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B.
During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, insurance companies cannot use medical underwriting, deny coverage, or charge higher premiums based on your health status. In most cases, they also cannot impose pre-existing condition waiting periods if you have creditable coverage. Once your open enrollment period ends, you may have to answer medical questions if you apply for coverage.
Guaranteed Issue Rights
In certain situations, you may qualify for Guaranteed Issue rights, which allow you to enroll in specific Medigap plans without medical underwriting. For example, if you lose employer group coverage or move out of a Medicare Advantage plan’s service area, you may have a limited time—often 63 days—to apply for certain plans without being denied for health reasons.
Keep any written notices from your previous coverage as proof of prior creditable coverage, especially if you had prescription drug coverage. This documentation may help you avoid a Medicare Part D late enrollment penalty.
Understanding the 10 Standardized Plans
There are 10 standardized Medicare Supplement plans available in most states: Plans A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N. Each Medicare Supplement plan letter provides the same core benefits regardless of which insurance company offers it. This means a Plan G from one insurance carrier offers the same medical benefits as a Plan G from another carrier. The main differences between companies are premium pricing, rate history, underwriting guidelines (when applicable), and company stability. Plans C and F are only available to individuals who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
Choosing the Right Coverage
Choosing a Medicare Supplement plan involves considering your healthcare needs, budget, and long-term goals. Comparing premiums, company stability, and potential rate increases is also important.
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This article was updated on February 12, 2026.