Medicare Ratings Guide

Category: Uncategorized

  • Medicare Advantage Enrollment: When to Join, Switch, or Drop a Plan (2026)

    Medicare Advantage Enrollment: Key Facts

    Who This Applies To Age 65 Medicare beneficiaries
    Enrollment Period Initial Enrollment Period or Annual Enrollment Period
    Timing IEP: 7-month window. Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 – December 7. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31
    Key Numbers Most plans have $0 premium. Average out-of-pocket maximum: $5,000-$8,000/year. Star ratings range from 1-5 stars; 4+ stars recommended.

    Overview

    Most plans have $0 premium. Average out-of-pocket maximum: $5,000-$8,000/year. Star ratings range from 1-5 stars; 4+ stars recommended. Understanding your Medicare enrollment windows is critical — missing a deadline can result in permanent premium penalties that follow you for the rest of your Medicare enrollment. This guide covers everything you need to know about medicare advantage enrollment.

    The Initial Enrollment Period or Annual Enrollment Period: Timing and Rules

    The Initial Enrollment Period or Annual Enrollment Period is your primary opportunity to enroll in Medicare coverage. IEP: 7-month window. Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 – December 7. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31. Missing this window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period can result in late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage.

    What Happens If You Miss the Enrollment Window?

    If you miss your enrollment window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period, you will face two consequences: (1) a coverage gap until the next enrollment period, and (2) a permanent late enrollment penalty added to your monthly premium. For Part B, the penalty is 10% for every 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll. For Part D, it is 1% per month. These penalties are permanent — they are added to your premium for as long as you have Medicare.

    How to Enroll

    You can enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov, by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office. If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B and will receive your Medicare card in the mail approximately 3 months before your 65th birthday.

    Medicare Costs in 2026

    Part Premium Deductible Cost-Sharing
    Part A (Hospital) $0 (if 40+ work credits) $1,632 per benefit period $408/day days 61-90
    Part B (Medical) $174.70/month (standard) $240/year 20% after deductible
    Part D (Drugs) Varies by plan (~$55/mo avg) Up to $545/year Varies by plan tier
    Medicare Advantage $0 to $100+/month Varies by plan Copays/coinsurance vary

    Getting Help with Medicare Decisions

    Every state has a free State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides unbiased Medicare counseling at no cost. SHIP counselors can help you compare plans, understand your enrollment options, and avoid costly mistakes. Find your state’s SHIP at shiphelp.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

  • Medicare Part D Enrollment: When to Enroll, Penalties & How to Choose a Plan (2026)

    Medicare Part D Enrollment: Key Facts

    Who This Applies To Age 65 Medicare beneficiaries
    Enrollment Period Initial Enrollment Period or Annual Enrollment Period
    Timing IEP: 7-month window. Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 – December 7 each year
    Key Numbers Average premium: $55.50/month (2024). Late enrollment penalty: 1% per month delayed, permanent. Low Income Subsidy (Extra Help) available for qualifying beneficiaries.

    Overview

    Average premium: $55.50/month (2024). Late enrollment penalty: 1% per month delayed, permanent. Low Income Subsidy (Extra Help) available for qualifying beneficiaries. Understanding your Medicare enrollment windows is critical — missing a deadline can result in permanent premium penalties that follow you for the rest of your Medicare enrollment. This guide covers everything you need to know about medicare part d enrollment.

    The Initial Enrollment Period or Annual Enrollment Period: Timing and Rules

    The Initial Enrollment Period or Annual Enrollment Period is your primary opportunity to enroll in Medicare coverage. IEP: 7-month window. Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 – December 7 each year. Missing this window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period can result in late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage.

    What Happens If You Miss the Enrollment Window?

    If you miss your enrollment window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period, you will face two consequences: (1) a coverage gap until the next enrollment period, and (2) a permanent late enrollment penalty added to your monthly premium. For Part B, the penalty is 10% for every 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll. For Part D, it is 1% per month. These penalties are permanent — they are added to your premium for as long as you have Medicare.

    How to Enroll

    You can enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov, by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office. If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B and will receive your Medicare card in the mail approximately 3 months before your 65th birthday.

    Medicare Costs in 2026

    Part Premium Deductible Cost-Sharing
    Part A (Hospital) $0 (if 40+ work credits) $1,632 per benefit period $408/day days 61-90
    Part B (Medical) $174.70/month (standard) $240/year 20% after deductible
    Part D (Drugs) Varies by plan (~$55/mo avg) Up to $545/year Varies by plan tier
    Medicare Advantage $0 to $100+/month Varies by plan Copays/coinsurance vary

    Getting Help with Medicare Decisions

    Every state has a free State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides unbiased Medicare counseling at no cost. SHIP counselors can help you compare plans, understand your enrollment options, and avoid costly mistakes. Find your state’s SHIP at shiphelp.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

  • Medicare Part B Enrollment: Deadlines, Costs & Late Penalties (2026)

    Medicare Part B Enrollment: Key Facts

    Who This Applies To Age 65 Medicare beneficiaries
    Enrollment Period Initial Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Period
    Timing IEP: 7-month window around your 65th birthday. SEP: 8 months after losing employer coverage
    Key Numbers Standard premium: $174.70/month. IRMAA surcharge applies for income over $103,000 (individual) or $206,000 (joint). Late penalty: 10% per 12-month period delayed.

    Overview

    Standard premium: $174.70/month. IRMAA surcharge applies for income over $103,000 (individual) or $206,000 (joint). Late penalty: 10% per 12-month period delayed. Understanding your Medicare enrollment windows is critical — missing a deadline can result in permanent premium penalties that follow you for the rest of your Medicare enrollment. This guide covers everything you need to know about medicare part b enrollment.

    The Initial Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Period: Timing and Rules

    The Initial Enrollment Period or Special Enrollment Period is your primary opportunity to enroll in Medicare coverage. IEP: 7-month window around your 65th birthday. SEP: 8 months after losing employer coverage. Missing this window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period can result in late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage.

    What Happens If You Miss the Enrollment Window?

    If you miss your enrollment window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period, you will face two consequences: (1) a coverage gap until the next enrollment period, and (2) a permanent late enrollment penalty added to your monthly premium. For Part B, the penalty is 10% for every 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll. For Part D, it is 1% per month. These penalties are permanent — they are added to your premium for as long as you have Medicare.

    How to Enroll

    You can enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov, by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office. If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B and will receive your Medicare card in the mail approximately 3 months before your 65th birthday.

    Medicare Costs in 2026

    Part Premium Deductible Cost-Sharing
    Part A (Hospital) $0 (if 40+ work credits) $1,632 per benefit period $408/day days 61-90
    Part B (Medical) $174.70/month (standard) $240/year 20% after deductible
    Part D (Drugs) Varies by plan (~$55/mo avg) Up to $545/year Varies by plan tier
    Medicare Advantage $0 to $100+/month Varies by plan Copays/coinsurance vary

    Getting Help with Medicare Decisions

    Every state has a free State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides unbiased Medicare counseling at no cost. SHIP counselors can help you compare plans, understand your enrollment options, and avoid costly mistakes. Find your state’s SHIP at shiphelp.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

  • When to Sign Up for Medicare: Complete 2026 Enrollment Guide

    When to Sign Up for Medicare: Key Facts

    Who This Applies To Age 65 Medicare beneficiaries
    Enrollment Period Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
    Timing 7-month window: 3 months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and 3 months after
    Key Numbers Part A: free if you have 40 work credits. Part B: $174.70/month (2024 standard). Late enrollment penalty: 10% per 12-month period you delayed Part B.

    Overview

    Part A: free if you have 40 work credits. Part B: $174.70/month (2024 standard). Late enrollment penalty: 10% per 12-month period you delayed Part B. Understanding your Medicare enrollment windows is critical — missing a deadline can result in permanent premium penalties that follow you for the rest of your Medicare enrollment. This guide covers everything you need to know about when to sign up for medicare.

    The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Timing and Rules

    The Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) is your primary opportunity to enroll in Medicare coverage. 7-month window: 3 months before your 65th birthday month, your birthday month, and 3 months after. Missing this window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period can result in late enrollment penalties and gaps in coverage.

    What Happens If You Miss the Enrollment Window?

    If you miss your enrollment window without a qualifying Special Enrollment Period, you will face two consequences: (1) a coverage gap until the next enrollment period, and (2) a permanent late enrollment penalty added to your monthly premium. For Part B, the penalty is 10% for every 12-month period you were eligible but did not enroll. For Part D, it is 1% per month. These penalties are permanent — they are added to your premium for as long as you have Medicare.

    How to Enroll

    You can enroll in Medicare online at ssa.gov, by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting your local Social Security office. If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, you will be automatically enrolled in Parts A and B and will receive your Medicare card in the mail approximately 3 months before your 65th birthday.

    Medicare Costs in 2026

    Part Premium Deductible Cost-Sharing
    Part A (Hospital) $0 (if 40+ work credits) $1,632 per benefit period $408/day days 61-90
    Part B (Medical) $174.70/month (standard) $240/year 20% after deductible
    Part D (Drugs) Varies by plan (~$55/mo avg) Up to $545/year Varies by plan tier
    Medicare Advantage $0 to $100+/month Varies by plan Copays/coinsurance vary

    Getting Help with Medicare Decisions

    Every state has a free State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides unbiased Medicare counseling at no cost. SHIP counselors can help you compare plans, understand your enrollment options, and avoid costly mistakes. Find your state’s SHIP at shiphelp.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

  • Medicare Supplement Plan N Coverage: What It Covers, Costs & Who Should Buy It (2026)

    Medicare Supplement Plan N: Quick Reference

    Average Monthly Premium $100-$200/mo (varies by age, location, insurer)
    Coverage Summary Good value — small copays but no excess charges
    Best For See recommendation below
    Available to New Enrollees? Yes
    Standardized? Yes — same benefits from every insurer, only price differs

    What Does Medicare Supplement Plan N Cover?

    Covers most costs with small copays ($20 office visits, $50 ER), no excess charge coverage.

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by federal law — every insurer offering Plan N must provide identical benefits. The only difference between insurers is the premium you pay. This means you should always shop multiple insurers before enrolling, as premiums for the same plan can vary by 50% or more depending on the company and your location.

    Medicare Supplement Plan N vs. Other Plans

    Plan Part A Deductible Part B Deductible Part B Excess Avg Premium
    Plan A No No No $80-$150
    Plan B Yes No No $100-$180
    Plan D Yes No No $120-$220
    Plan N Yes No No $100-$200/mo
    Plan G Yes No Yes $140-$280
    Plan N Yes No No $100-$200

    Who Should Buy Medicare Supplement Plan N?

    Medicare Supplement Plan N is best suited for beneficiaries who want predictable out-of-pocket costs with moderate premiums. Before choosing, compare premiums from at least 3-5 insurers in your state using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov.

    How to Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan N

    The best time to enroll in any Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions. After this window closes, insurers can use medical underwriting in most states, which may result in higher premiums or denial of coverage.

    To enroll: (1) Choose a plan letter (Plan N), (2) Compare premiums from multiple insurers in your state, (3) Contact the insurer directly or use a licensed Medicare broker. There is no annual enrollment period for Medigap — you can apply at any time, but underwriting may apply outside your Open Enrollment Period.

    Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Better?

    Medicare Supplement plans like Plan N work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and cover your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that typically includes prescription drug coverage but uses networks and prior authorizations. Medigap is generally better for people who travel frequently, see specialists regularly, or want the freedom to use any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide without network restrictions.

  • Medicare Supplement Plan M Coverage: What It Covers, Costs & Who Should Buy It (2026)

    Medicare Supplement Plan M: Quick Reference

    Average Monthly Premium $100-$180/mo (varies by age, location, insurer)
    Coverage Summary Moderate option with partial deductible coverage
    Best For See recommendation below
    Available to New Enrollees? Yes
    Standardized? Yes — same benefits from every insurer, only price differs

    What Does Medicare Supplement Plan M Cover?

    Covers 50% of Part A deductible, all other standard benefits.

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by federal law — every insurer offering Plan M must provide identical benefits. The only difference between insurers is the premium you pay. This means you should always shop multiple insurers before enrolling, as premiums for the same plan can vary by 50% or more depending on the company and your location.

    Medicare Supplement Plan M vs. Other Plans

    Plan Part A Deductible Part B Deductible Part B Excess Avg Premium
    Plan A No No No $80-$150
    Plan B Yes No No $100-$180
    Plan D Yes No No $120-$220
    Plan M Yes No No $100-$180/mo
    Plan G Yes No Yes $140-$280
    Plan N Yes No No $100-$200

    Who Should Buy Medicare Supplement Plan M?

    Medicare Supplement Plan M is best suited for beneficiaries who want solid coverage at a reasonable premium. Before choosing, compare premiums from at least 3-5 insurers in your state using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov.

    How to Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan M

    The best time to enroll in any Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions. After this window closes, insurers can use medical underwriting in most states, which may result in higher premiums or denial of coverage.

    To enroll: (1) Choose a plan letter (Plan M), (2) Compare premiums from multiple insurers in your state, (3) Contact the insurer directly or use a licensed Medicare broker. There is no annual enrollment period for Medigap — you can apply at any time, but underwriting may apply outside your Open Enrollment Period.

    Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Better?

    Medicare Supplement plans like Plan M work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and cover your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that typically includes prescription drug coverage but uses networks and prior authorizations. Medigap is generally better for people who travel frequently, see specialists regularly, or want the freedom to use any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide without network restrictions.

  • Medicare Supplement Plan L Coverage: What It Covers, Costs & Who Should Buy It (2026)

    Medicare Supplement Plan L: Quick Reference

    Average Monthly Premium $80-$150/mo (varies by age, location, insurer)
    Coverage Summary Moderate cost-sharing option
    Best For See recommendation below
    Available to New Enrollees? Yes
    Standardized? Yes — same benefits from every insurer, only price differs

    What Does Medicare Supplement Plan L Cover?

    Covers 75% of most costs, moderate premium, out-of-pocket limit applies.

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by federal law — every insurer offering Plan L must provide identical benefits. The only difference between insurers is the premium you pay. This means you should always shop multiple insurers before enrolling, as premiums for the same plan can vary by 50% or more depending on the company and your location.

    Medicare Supplement Plan L vs. Other Plans

    Plan Part A Deductible Part B Deductible Part B Excess Avg Premium
    Plan A No No No $80-$150
    Plan B Yes No No $100-$180
    Plan D Yes No No $120-$220
    Plan L No No No $80-$150/mo
    Plan G Yes No Yes $140-$280
    Plan N Yes No No $100-$200

    Who Should Buy Medicare Supplement Plan L?

    Medicare Supplement Plan L is best suited for beneficiaries who are in good health and want to minimize monthly premiums while accepting some cost-sharing. Before choosing, compare premiums from at least 3-5 insurers in your state using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov.

    How to Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan L

    The best time to enroll in any Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions. After this window closes, insurers can use medical underwriting in most states, which may result in higher premiums or denial of coverage.

    To enroll: (1) Choose a plan letter (Plan L), (2) Compare premiums from multiple insurers in your state, (3) Contact the insurer directly or use a licensed Medicare broker. There is no annual enrollment period for Medigap — you can apply at any time, but underwriting may apply outside your Open Enrollment Period.

    Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Better?

    Medicare Supplement plans like Plan L work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and cover your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that typically includes prescription drug coverage but uses networks and prior authorizations. Medigap is generally better for people who travel frequently, see specialists regularly, or want the freedom to use any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide without network restrictions.

  • Medicare Supplement Plan K Coverage: What It Covers, Costs & Who Should Buy It (2026)

    Medicare Supplement Plan K: Quick Reference

    Average Monthly Premium $60-$120/mo (varies by age, location, insurer)
    Coverage Summary Lower premium, higher cost-sharing
    Best For See recommendation below
    Available to New Enrollees? Yes
    Standardized? Yes — same benefits from every insurer, only price differs

    What Does Medicare Supplement Plan K Cover?

    Covers 50% of most costs, lower premium, out-of-pocket limit applies.

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by federal law — every insurer offering Plan K must provide identical benefits. The only difference between insurers is the premium you pay. This means you should always shop multiple insurers before enrolling, as premiums for the same plan can vary by 50% or more depending on the company and your location.

    Medicare Supplement Plan K vs. Other Plans

    Plan Part A Deductible Part B Deductible Part B Excess Avg Premium
    Plan A No No No $80-$150
    Plan B Yes No No $100-$180
    Plan D Yes No No $120-$220
    Plan K No No No $60-$120/mo
    Plan G Yes No Yes $140-$280
    Plan N Yes No No $100-$200

    Who Should Buy Medicare Supplement Plan K?

    Medicare Supplement Plan K is best suited for beneficiaries who are in good health and want to minimize monthly premiums while accepting some cost-sharing. Before choosing, compare premiums from at least 3-5 insurers in your state using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov.

    How to Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan K

    The best time to enroll in any Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions. After this window closes, insurers can use medical underwriting in most states, which may result in higher premiums or denial of coverage.

    To enroll: (1) Choose a plan letter (Plan K), (2) Compare premiums from multiple insurers in your state, (3) Contact the insurer directly or use a licensed Medicare broker. There is no annual enrollment period for Medigap — you can apply at any time, but underwriting may apply outside your Open Enrollment Period.

    Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Better?

    Medicare Supplement plans like Plan K work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and cover your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that typically includes prescription drug coverage but uses networks and prior authorizations. Medigap is generally better for people who travel frequently, see specialists regularly, or want the freedom to use any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide without network restrictions.

  • Medicare Supplement Plan G Coverage: What It Covers, Costs & Who Should Buy It (2026)

    Medicare Supplement Plan G: Quick Reference

    Average Monthly Premium $140-$280/mo (varies by age, location, insurer)
    Coverage Summary Best value for new enrollees — most popular plan
    Best For See recommendation below
    Available to New Enrollees? Yes
    Standardized? Yes — same benefits from every insurer, only price differs

    What Does Medicare Supplement Plan G Cover?

    Best available to new enrollees — covers everything except Part B deductible ($240 in 2024).

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by federal law — every insurer offering Plan G must provide identical benefits. The only difference between insurers is the premium you pay. This means you should always shop multiple insurers before enrolling, as premiums for the same plan can vary by 50% or more depending on the company and your location.

    Medicare Supplement Plan G vs. Other Plans

    Plan Part A Deductible Part B Deductible Part B Excess Avg Premium
    Plan A No No No $80-$150
    Plan B Yes No No $100-$180
    Plan D Yes No No $120-$220
    Plan G Yes No Yes $140-$280/mo
    Plan G Yes No Yes $140-$280
    Plan N Yes No No $100-$200

    Who Should Buy Medicare Supplement Plan G?

    Medicare Supplement Plan G is best suited for beneficiaries who want predictable out-of-pocket costs with moderate premiums. Before choosing, compare premiums from at least 3-5 insurers in your state using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov.

    How to Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan G

    The best time to enroll in any Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions. After this window closes, insurers can use medical underwriting in most states, which may result in higher premiums or denial of coverage.

    To enroll: (1) Choose a plan letter (Plan G), (2) Compare premiums from multiple insurers in your state, (3) Contact the insurer directly or use a licensed Medicare broker. There is no annual enrollment period for Medigap — you can apply at any time, but underwriting may apply outside your Open Enrollment Period.

    Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Better?

    Medicare Supplement plans like Plan G work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and cover your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that typically includes prescription drug coverage but uses networks and prior authorizations. Medigap is generally better for people who travel frequently, see specialists regularly, or want the freedom to use any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide without network restrictions.

  • Medicare Supplement Plan F Coverage: What It Covers, Costs & Who Should Buy It (2026)

    Medicare Supplement Plan F: Quick Reference

    Average Monthly Premium $180-$350/mo (varies by age, location, insurer)
    Coverage Summary Legacy plan, most comprehensive, not available to new enrollees
    Best For See recommendation below
    Available to New Enrollees? No — legacy plan only
    Standardized? Yes — same benefits from every insurer, only price differs

    What Does Medicare Supplement Plan F Cover?

    Most comprehensive — covers everything including Part B deductible and excess charges (not available to new enrollees after Jan 1, 2020).

    Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are standardized by federal law — every insurer offering Plan F must provide identical benefits. The only difference between insurers is the premium you pay. This means you should always shop multiple insurers before enrolling, as premiums for the same plan can vary by 50% or more depending on the company and your location.

    Medicare Supplement Plan F vs. Other Plans

    Plan Part A Deductible Part B Deductible Part B Excess Avg Premium
    Plan A No No No $80-$150
    Plan B Yes No No $100-$180
    Plan D Yes No No $120-$220
    Plan F Yes Yes Yes $180-$350/mo
    Plan G Yes No Yes $140-$280
    Plan N Yes No No $100-$200

    Who Should Buy Medicare Supplement Plan F?

    Medicare Supplement Plan F is best suited for beneficiaries who want the most comprehensive coverage available and enrolled in Medicare before January 1, 2020. Before choosing, compare premiums from at least 3-5 insurers in your state using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov.

    How to Enroll in Medicare Supplement Plan F

    The best time to enroll in any Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — the 6-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this period, insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge higher premiums due to pre-existing conditions. After this window closes, insurers can use medical underwriting in most states, which may result in higher premiums or denial of coverage.

    To enroll: (1) Choose a plan letter (Plan F), (2) Compare premiums from multiple insurers in your state, (3) Contact the insurer directly or use a licensed Medicare broker. There is no annual enrollment period for Medigap — you can apply at any time, but underwriting may apply outside your Open Enrollment Period.

    Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Better?

    Medicare Supplement plans like Plan F work alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and cover your out-of-pocket costs. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare with a private plan that typically includes prescription drug coverage but uses networks and prior authorizations. Medigap is generally better for people who travel frequently, see specialists regularly, or want the freedom to use any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide without network restrictions.