Medicare Supplement Insurance

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Quick answer

Medicare Supplement insurance, or Medigap, is private coverage that pays the deductibles, copays, and coinsurance Original Medicare doesn't. It works only with Original Medicare, not Medicare Advantage, and benefits are standardized by federal law across 10 lettered plans, per Medicare.gov.

Medicare Supplement insurance reduces your out-of-pocket medical costs and adds predictability to your healthcare budget. Here's how it works.

How does Medicare Supplement insurance work?

Medicare Supplement insurance pays after Original Medicare. When you receive care, Medicare pays its share first, then your Medigap policy automatically covers some or all of the remaining costs, depending on your plan. Because benefits are federally standardized, you always know exactly what's covered. There are no networks, you can see any provider in the U.S. that accepts Medicare. You pay a monthly premium to the insurer in addition to your Part B premium. This trade, a predictable premium for far fewer surprise bills, is why millions of seniors choose Medigap. To find your best rate, call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427).

Who should buy Medicare Supplement insurance?

Medicare Supplement insurance suits people who want predictable costs, the freedom to see any Medicare provider, and coverage that travels with them nationwide. It's especially valuable for those with ongoing health conditions, frequent travelers, snowbirds, and anyone who dislikes the prior-authorization and network rules of Medicare Advantage. The best time to enroll is during your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, when you can't be turned down for health reasons. If you're approaching 65 or just signed up for Part B, call 1-800-MEDIGAP to confirm your enrollment window before it closes.

What does Medicare Supplement insurance not cover?

Medicare Supplement insurance doesn't cover prescription drugs, you need a separate Part D plan for that. It also doesn't cover routine dental, vision, hearing aids, long-term custodial care, or cosmetic services. Medigap is designed to fill the gaps in Original Medicare's hospital and medical coverage, not to add new benefits. For drug coverage and extras, our agents can pair your Medigap plan with a Part D plan and other options. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for a complete coverage review.

More on Medicare Supplement / Medigap

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Frequently asked questions

Is Medicare Supplement insurance the same as Medigap?+

Yes. Medicare Supplement insurance and Medigap are two names for the same product, private insurance that pays the out-of-pocket costs Original Medicare leaves behind. The term Medigap comes from the way these plans fill the gaps in Original Medicare coverage.

Do I still need Part B with Medicare Supplement insurance?+

Yes. Medicare Supplement insurance only works alongside Original Medicare, so you must be enrolled in both Part A and Part B. You'll continue paying your Part B premium in addition to your Medigap premium. Medigap then covers your share of Medicare-approved costs.

Can my Medicare Supplement insurance be cancelled?+

As long as you pay your premiums, your Medigap policy is guaranteed renewable, meaning the insurer cannot cancel it because of your health or claims. Policies can only be cancelled for non-payment or material misrepresentation on your application. This makes Medigap a stable, long-term choice.

How much does Medicare Supplement insurance cost?+

Premiums vary by plan letter, age, location, gender, tobacco use, and insurer, often ranging from about $90 to $300+ per month for Plan G. Because benefits are standardized, the same coverage can cost very different amounts. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to compare carriers and avoid overpaying.

When should I buy Medicare Supplement insurance?+

The ideal time is your six-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts the month you're 65 or older and enrolled in Part B. During this window you can't be denied or charged more for health reasons. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to confirm your dates.

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