High-Deductible Medigap Plan G: 2026 Costs & Coverage

Overview

Choosing a Medicare Supplement plan often comes down to balancing monthly premiums with potential out-of-pocket costs. If you’re looking for comprehensive coverage but don’t mind paying more upfront when you need care, High Deductible Plan G may be worth considering in 2026.

This option offers the same benefits as standard Medigap Plan G, but with a lower monthly premium and a higher annual deductible. For some beneficiaries, especially those who are healthy or financially prepared, it can be a smart way to manage healthcare expenses without sacrificing long-term protection.

What Is High-Deductible Medigap Plan G?

High-Deductible Medicare Supplement Plan G is a standardized Medigap policy that works alongside Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). Medicare pays its share first, and you pay your portion until your out-of-pocket costs reach the annual deductible.

For 2026, the High Deductible Plan G deductible is $2,950. Once you reach that amount using Medicare-approved expenses, the plan begins paying all remaining Medicare Part A and Part B cost-sharing for the rest of the calendar year, excluding premiums.

Importantly, this deductible applies to your Medigap plan, not Medicare itself. Medicare coverage rules do not change.

How High-Deductible Plan G Works in Practice

High-deductible plans require you to cover more of your Medicare cost-sharing upfront in exchange for lower monthly premiums.

Here’s how it typically works:

1. Medicare pays first for covered services

2. You pay Medicare deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments

3. These costs count toward the $2,950 Medigap deductible

4. Once met, your supplement pays 100% of covered Medicare costs for the rest of the year

Example Scenario

In 2026, you first pay the $283 Medicare Part B deductible. After that, Medicare Part B generally pays 80% of approved outpatient services, leaving you responsible for the remaining 20%.

• With a high-deductible Medigap plan, you continue paying that 20% until your total Medicare-approved out-of-pocket costs reach $2,950.
• At that point, High-Deductible Plan G takes over and pays those costs in full for the rest of the calendar year.

This structure creates a predictable maximum exposure, which many beneficiaries find reassuring.

What Does a High-Deductible Plan G Cover?

Once the deductible is satisfied, High-Deductible Plan G covers the same benefits as standard Plan G, including:

• Medicare Part A hospital coinsurance and hospital costs

• Medicare Part B coinsurance (the 20% Medicare doesn’t pay)

• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance

• Hospice coinsurance or copayments

• Medicare Part A deductible

• Foreign travel emergency coverage (within plan limits)

Note: The Part B deductible is not covered, just like with standard Plan G. But the annual Part B deductible that you will pay counts toward the total out-of-pocket deductible.

High-Deductible Plan G vs. Standard Plan G

The difference isn’t what’s covered; it’s when coverage begins.

If you’re deciding between multiple Medigap options, you may want to compare Medicare Supplement Insurance plans side by side to see how High-Deductible Plan G stacks up against other plans based on premiums, deductibles, and total cost exposure.

Medicare Supplement Plans Benefit Comparison Chart

The chart below highlights information about the different benefits Medigap policies cover.

​✓= the plan covers 100% of this benefit
​X= the plan doesn’t cover this benefit
% = the plan covers that percentage of this benefit, and you’re responsible for the rest
N/A = not applicable

Who Is High-Deductible Plan G Best For?

High-Deductible Medigap Plan G may be a good fit if you:

• Want lower monthly premiums

• Are generally healthy and don’t expect frequent care

• Can comfortably afford the $2,950 deductible if needed

• Prefer nationwide provider access under Original Medicare

• Want predictable annual financial risk

It may be less suitable if you need frequent outpatient care or prefer minimal upfront costs.

Eligibility Requirements for High-Deductible Plan G

To enroll, you must be enrolled in Original Medicare Part A and Part B. Availability for beneficiaries under age 65 depends on state rules.

Some beneficiaries have added flexibility after enrollment, since several states now offer a Medigap birthday rule with a 30–63 day window that allows eligible beneficiaries to switch plans without medical underwriting. These rules vary by state.

How High-Deductible Plan G Compares to Other Medicare Options

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) often offers lower premiums but includes networks, copays, and annual plan changes

• Standard Medigap plans provide higher premiums with little to no cost-sharing

• High-Deductible Plan F offers a similar structure, but is only available to beneficiaries eligible before 2020

Each option fits different healthcare needs and budgets.

Conclusion: Is a High-Deductible Plan G Worth It in 2026?

High-Deductible Plan G can be a smart choice for beneficiaries who want strong protection, lower monthly premiums, and a clear annual cap on Medicare-approved out-of-pocket costs. With a $2,950 deductible in 2026, it rewards those who are comfortable managing upfront expenses in exchange for long-term predictability.

Because pricing varies by insurer, even though benefits are standardized, many beneficiaries review the best Medicare Supplement Plan G companies to compare rates, pricing models, and carrier stability before enrolling.

Speaking with a licensed insurance agent can also help confirm availability and determine whether this plan fits your healthcare and financial goals.