Original Medicare (Parts A and B) provides essential healthcare coverage, but it doesn’t cover everything. Beneficiaries are often left paying out-of-pocket for deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. That’s why millions of Americans choose Medicare supplemental policies, also called Medigap plans.
If you’re trying to understand the differences between plans, this guide will walk you through a full Medicare Medigap plan comparison, explain what each option covers, and help you decide which supplemental policy best fits your needs in 2025.
What Is a Medicare Medigap Plan?
A Medicare Medigap plan is private insurance that works alongside Original Medicare. It fills the “gaps” that Medicare leaves behind, giving you more predictable healthcare costs.
You must have Medicare Part A and Part B to enroll.
Plans are sold by private insurers but standardized by the federal government.
Each plan is labeled with a letter (A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, N).
Benefits are the same no matter which company sells the plan—the main difference is the premium and service quality.
Why Compare Medicare Supplemental Policies?
Every Medigap plan offers different levels of coverage. By comparing Medicare supplements, you can:
Find a plan that matches your healthcare needs.
Avoid surprise medical bills.
Balance premium costs with out-of-pocket expenses.
Choose coverage that aligns with your lifestyle, such as foreign travel or frequent doctor visits.
Medicare Medigap Plan Comparisons
Here’s a breakdown of the most popular Medicare supplemental plans in 2025:
Plan G – The Comprehensive Choice
Covers everything except the Part B deductible.
Great for those who want strong financial protection.
The most popular option for new enrollees.
Plan N – Affordable with Small Copays
Lower premiums compared to Plan G.
Requires small copayments for doctor visits and ER visits.
A smart choice for healthier beneficiaries who want to save on premiums.
Plan F – Maximum Coverage (Closed to New Enrollees)
Covers 100% of Medicare-approved costs.
Only available if you were eligible before January 1, 2020.
Still one of the strongest plans for those who qualify.
Plan K and Plan L – Cost-Sharing Options
Cover a percentage of costs (50% for K, 75% for L).
Have annual out-of-pocket limits for added protection.
Lower monthly premiums, but more cost-sharing.
Plan M – Mid-Level Coverage
Covers 50% of the Part A deductible.
Provides balanced protection for those who don’t need full coverage.
Medicare Medigap Comparison Chart
Plan Part A Coinsurance Part B Coinsurance Part A Deductible Part B Deductible Foreign Travel Out-of-Pocket Limit Best For
G ✔ ✔ ✔ ✘ ✔ None Most comprehensive for new enrollees
N ✔ ✔ (with copays) ✔ ✘ ✔ None Lower premiums with moderate cost-sharing
F ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ None Maximum coverage (pre-2020 eligible only)
K 50% 50% 50% ✘ ✘ $7,060 (2025) Low premiums, limited coverage
L 75% 75% 75% ✘ ✘ $3,530 (2025) Moderate coverage with out-of-pocket cap
M ✔ ✔ 50% ✘ ✔ None Balanced coverage, mid-level premiums
Tips for Choosing the Right Medigap Policy
When reviewing Medicare Medigap plan comparisons, keep these factors in mind:
Healthcare Needs – Frequent doctor visits and hospital stays may justify a more comprehensive plan.
Budget – Weigh monthly premiums against possible out-of-pocket expenses.
Lifestyle – Travelers may prefer plans with foreign emergency care.
Company medicare medigap plan comparisons Reputation – Even though benefits are standardized, service and rate increases vary by insurer.
Enrollment Timing – The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period when coverage is guaranteed.
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage
It’s also important to understand the difference between Medicare supplemental insurance (Medigap) and Medicare Advantage (Part C):
Medigap Plans: Work with Original Medicare, offer nationwide access, and focus on reducing out-of-pocket costs.
Medicare Advantage Plans: Replace Original Medicare, usually include drug coverage and extras like vision or dental, but limit you to provider networks.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Medicare supplemental policy is about balancing cost, coverage, and peace of mind. Plan G remains the top choice for comprehensive protection, while Plan N offers a budget-friendly alternative with some cost-sharing. Plans K, L, and M may suit those looking for lower premiums with partial benefits.
By carefully reviewing Medicare Medigap plan comparisons and considering your personal health and financial situation, you can make a confident decision and secure the healthcare protection you need in retirement.