by Russell Noga | Updated October 30th, 2025
Looking for the best Medigap insurance for 2026? This article compares the top Medigap plans, including Plan G, Plan N, and High-Deductible Plan G.
We will help you understand the best options to cover gaps in your Original Medicare and stay ahead of rising healthcare costs.
Key Takeaways
- Medigap insurance is essential for filling coverage gaps in Original Medicare, especially with projected premium increases in 2026.
- Top Medigap plans for 2026 include Plan G for comprehensive coverage, Plan N for cost-effectiveness, and High-Deductible Plan G for lower premiums.
- Key factors in choosing a Medigap plan include assessing healthcare needs, comparing costs, and evaluating insurance company ratings.
Why You Need Medigap Insurance in 2026
Original Medicare, while providing essential healthcare benefits, leaves significant hospital coverage gaps that can result in high out-of-pocket costs for Medicare beneficiaries. These gaps include copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles, which can quickly add up.
With healthcare costs on the rise, these expenses can become burdensome, highlighting the need for supplemental coverage through a Medigap plan and traditional Medicare, especially considering the out-of-pocket limits and how Medicare pays for Medicare benefits.
Beginning in 2026, Medicare beneficiaries will face rising premiums and surcharges, projected to increase by about 11% for Medicare Part B premiums. This escalation in costs emphasizes the need for a Medigap policy to mitigate these expenses and ensure that healthcare remains affordable.
Knowing these coverage gaps and potential cost increases is vital for selecting a Medigap plan that fits your individual needs.
Top Medigap Plans for 2026
Three plans stand out for 2026 due to their comprehensive coverage and popularity among Medicare beneficiaries. A Medicare plan, Plan G, Plan N, and High-Deductible Plan G are among the most favored medicare plans.
Each of these plans offers unique extra benefits tailored to different healthcare needs and financial situations.
Plan G: Comprehensive Coverage for New Enrollees
Known for its extensive coverage, Plan G is a top choice for new enrollees. It fills significant gaps left by Original Medicare, covering a wide range of covered services such as hospital costs, skilled nursing facility care, and foreign travel emergencies. The only exclusion in Plan G is the Medicare Part B deductible, which beneficiaries must cover before the plan’s benefits take effect.
Plan G offers significant financial protection, helping new enrollees manage their healthcare expenses effectively. Its comprehensive coverage provides peace of mind, making it one of the best Medigap plans available for 2026.
Plan N: Cost-Effective with Key Benefits
Plan N is an excellent choice for those seeking a more affordable option. It is one of the most budget-friendly Medigap plans available, offering lower premiums while still providing essential coverage. Key features include:
- Requires beneficiaries to pay copayments for certain services
- Copayments include up to $20 for doctor visits
- Copayments include up to $50 for emergency room visits. These copayments help keep monthly premiums lower.
Plan N balances affordability and benefits, covering essential services without the higher costs of more comprehensive plans. This makes it a popular choice for those looking to save money while still receiving substantial coverage, especially when considering the right plan type.
High-Deductible Plan G: Lower Monthly Premiums
High-Deductible Plan G is another option for those seeking lower monthly premiums. This plan offers the same benefits as standard Plan G but comes with an annual deductible of $2,870 that must be met before the coverage kicks in. This high-deductible structure allows beneficiaries to enjoy lower premiums while still having access to comprehensive coverage once the deductible is met. Additionally, high deductible plans can provide significant savings for those who anticipate lower healthcare usage.
High-Deductible Plan G suits individuals who prefer lower monthly payments and are comfortable with higher initial out-of-pocket expenses. It combines the extensive coverage of Plan G with the financial flexibility of lower monthly premiums, making it an appealing choice for many.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Medigap Plan
Selecting the right Medigap plan involves assessing your healthcare needs, comparing costs and premiums, and evaluating insurance company ratings to choose a Medicare Advantage plan that best suits your situation.
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in making an informed decision about your supplemental coverage.
Assessing Your Healthcare Needs
Start by evaluating your healthcare needs when choosing a Medigap plan. Consider your health conditions, the frequency of medical services you use, and any specific healthcare requirements you may have. For example, if you frequently visit the doctor or anticipate needing skilled nursing facility care, a plan like Plan G might be more suitable due to its comprehensive coverage of these services.
Understanding your health status and anticipated healthcare needs helps you select a plan that provides necessary coverage while managing out-of-pocket costs effectively. This personalized approach ensures that you choose a Medigap plan that aligns with your healthcare usage patterns.
Comparing Costs and Premiums
Comparing the costs and premiums of different Medigap plans is another critical factor. Premiums can vary significantly based on geographic location, the insurer’s pricing model, and the individual’s age and health status. For instance, Plan N requires copayments for certain services, which helps keep monthly premiums lower, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious individuals.
Consider not only the monthly premiums but also potential out-of-pocket expenses and possible changes in premiums over time, including your out-of-pocket limit. This comprehensive comparison of coverage options and medical expenses to compare plan options will help you select a plan that fits your financial situation and provides the best value for your money.
Evaluating Insurance Company Ratings
Evaluating insurance company ratings is crucial when choosing a Medigap plan. Look for companies with high customer satisfaction ratings and strong financial stability. Researching customer reviews and industry ratings can provide valuable insights into the reliability and service quality of the insurance providers.
Selecting an insurance company with a solid reputation ensures dependable coverage and good customer service. This step helps avoid potential issues and ensures your Medigap policy serves you well over the years, especially when working with a licensed insurance agent.
Compare Medicare Plans & Rates in Your Area
Best Medigap Insurance Companies for 2026
Several insurance companies stand out for their Medigap offerings in 2026. NerdWallet assessed 15 Medicare Supplement Insurance providers, evaluating their market presence and beneficiary coverage to identify the top performers.
Companies like AARP/UnitedHealthcare, Wellabe, Anthem, and Mutual of Omaha are among the best options available.
AARP/UnitedHealthcare: Low Complaint Rates and Competitive Prices
AARP/UnitedHealthcare is a standout provider known for its low complaint rates and competitive prices across its Medigap plans. They offer a variety of plans, including:
- Plan A
- Plan B
- Plan C
- Plan F
- Plan G
- Plan K
- Plan L
- Plan N Among these, Plan G is highly recommended for its extensive coverage and affordability.
UnitedHealthcare’s strong reputation and wide availability make it a top choice for the best medicare beneficiaries looking for reliable and competitively priced Medicare-approved Medigap coverage.
Wellabe: Affordable Options with Limited Extras
Wellabe is known for offering some of the most affordable Medigap plans available. With a selection that includes plans A, F, G, and N, Wellabe provides essential coverage at low premiums. However, it’s important to note that Wellabe’s plans come with minimal perks and are available in a limited number of states.
Despite these limitations, Wellabe’s competitive pricing and satisfactory complaint rates make it a viable option for those seeking budget-friendly Medigap insurance.
Anthem: Additional Dental and Vision Coverage
Anthem offers a range of Medigap plans with the added benefit of customizable dental and vision coverage. Operating in 14 states, Anthem allows policyholders to enhance their Medigap plans with these valuable add-ons, providing comprehensive healthcare coverage. Anthem’s complaint rate aligns with expected levels, indicating satisfactory service quality.
For those looking to combine their Medigap plan with additional dental and vision benefits, Anthem presents a strong option with its customizable coverage offerings.
Mutual of Omaha: High-Deductible Plan Specialists
Mutual of Omaha is recognized as a top provider for high-deductible Medigap Plan G, offering low complaint rates and significant household discounts. Their plans are widely available, making them a convenient choice for many Medicare beneficiaries.
With above-average premium discounts and a strong reputation for customer satisfaction, Mutual of Omaha is an excellent choice for those seeking high-deductible Medigap plans that offer financial flexibility and substantial savings.
Understanding the Medigap Open Enrollment Period
The Medigap Open Enrollment Period is a crucial time for enrolling in a Medigap plan. Key points about this period include:
- It begins when you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B.
- It lasts for six months.
- During this window, you cannot be denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions.
- You cannot be charged higher premiums because of pre-existing conditions.
After the Open Enrollment Period ends, obtaining a Medigap policy can become more difficult and expensive. Knowing this period and enrolling at the right time ensures the best possible coverage without facing higher costs or denial of coverage.
Discounts and Savings Opportunities
Many insurance companies offer various discounts and savings opportunities for Medigap policies. Discounts are often available for:
- Non-smokers
- Married couples
- Those who opt for automatic payments from their bank accounts or credit cards
- Policyholders who pay their premiums annually
Additionally, younger enrollees and families enrolling together may receive special discounts. Exploring these discount options can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and make your Medigap plan more affordable through cost sharing.
Future Cost Considerations
When planning for the future, it’s important to consider the historical trend of rising Medigap premiums. Typically, these premiums have increased annually by 5-10%, with sharper rises observed after 2020. Understanding this trend can help you anticipate future costs and budget accordingly.
Considering future cost trends and potential premium increases ensures you choose a Medigap plan that remains affordable over time. This foresight helps manage healthcare costs effectively and provides long-term financial stability.
Summary
A Medicare Supplement plan can make a significant difference in controlling your medical costs. Comparing top Medicare supplement plans for 2026, including Plan G, Plan N, and High-Deductible Plan G, helps you find a plan that fits your healthcare needs and budget. Each plan offers unique benefits, making it essential to assess your personal requirements and financial situation.
For personalized assistance in choosing the best Medigap plan, call 1-888-891-0229. Understanding your current coverage, evaluating the best plans, and considering potential future costs will help you make an informed decision and secure the most suitable Medigap policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Medigap Open Enrollment Period?
The Medigap Open Enrollment Period commences when you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B, lasting for six months. During this time, you are guaranteed coverage without the risk of being denied or facing higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions.
What are the main differences between Plan G and Plan N?
Plan G provides extensive coverage with the only cost being the Part B deductible, while Plan N offers lower premiums but imposes copayments for certain services, such as doctor’s visits and emergency room visits. Thus, your choice depends on whether you prefer higher coverage or lower monthly costs.
Why should I consider a high-deductible Medigap plan?
A high-deductible Medigap plan can be advantageous as it typically provides lower monthly premiums, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer to minimize their monthly expenses while being comfortable with higher upfront costs before coverage begins. Consider this option if you are looking for affordability in monthly payments.
How do I compare Medigap plans effectively?
To compare Medigap plans effectively, evaluate your healthcare needs, compare premiums, and check the ratings of insurance companies. By considering factors like costs, geographic location, and customer satisfaction, you can select the plan that best suits your needs.
Are there any discounts available for Medigap policies?
Yes, discounts for Medigap policies are often available, including for non-smokers, married couples, and those using automatic payments. Additional savings may apply for annual payments or holding multiple policies with the same insurer.
Find the Right Medicare Plan for You
Finding the right Medicare plan doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether it’s a Medigap plan, or you have questions about Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part D, we can help.
Call us today at 1-888-891-0229 and one of our knowledgeable, licensed insurance agents will be happy to assist you!
Russell Noga is the CEO and Medicare editor of Medisupps.com. His 15 years of experience in the Medicare insurance market includes being a licensed Medicare insurance broker in all 50 states. He is frequently featured as a featured as a keynote Medicare event speaker, has authored hundreds of Medicare content pages, and hosts the very popular Medisupps.com Medicare Youtube channel. His expertise includes Medicare, Medigap insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Part D.