Written by Adrienne Lin
We aim to help you make informed healthcare decisions. While this post may contain links to lead generation forms, this won’t influence our writing. We follow strict editorial standards to give you the most accurate and unbiased information.
Key Takeaways
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Plan G offers nearly identical coverage to Plan F, except it doesn’t pay the Medicare Part B deductible.
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Plan F is only available to people who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
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Plan G may save you money overall, especially if you don’t mind paying a small deductible each year.
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Both plans cover nearly all out-of-pocket Medicare costs, making them top choices for comprehensive coverage.
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You can compare Medigap plans easily through Healthcare.com or call a licensed insurance agent at 877-388-1028 (TTY 711), Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. ET.
Overview
Choosing between Medigap Plan F and Plan G can feel confusing—especially since they look so similar on paper. Both are top-tier Medicare Supplement plans designed to fill “gaps” in Original Medicare, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
But since Plan F is no longer available to new Medicare enrollees, many beneficiaries are asking: Is Plan G the better option now? This guide breaks down the differences, costs, and coverage details to help you make a confident, well-informed choice.
Understanding Medigap: A Quick Refresher
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) helps pay the out-of-pocket costs left over after Original Medicare (Parts A and B) pays its share. These plans are standardized by the federal government, meaning that Plan F or Plan G offers the same benefits no matter which insurer you choose—only the premium and extra perks vary.
To buy a Medigap policy, you must already have Original Medicare (Parts A and B). These plans are offered by private insurance companies.
Compare options HERE & start your health plan journey.
Medigap Plan F vs Plan G: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Coverage Benefit | Medigap Plan F | Medigap Plan G |
|---|---|---|
| Part A coinsurance & hospital costs | ✅ | ✅ |
| Part B coinsurance or copayment | ✅ | ✅ |
| First 3 pints of blood | ✅ | ✅ |
| Part A hospice care coinsurance | ✅ | ✅ |
| Skilled nursing facility coinsurance | ✅ | ✅ |
| Part A deductible | ✅ | ✅ |
| Part B deductible | ✅ | ❌ |
| Part B excess charges | ✅ | ✅ |
| Foreign travel emergency (up to plan limits) | ✅ | ✅ |
In short, Plan G covers everything Plan F does, except the Medicare Part B deductible, which is $288 in 2026 (estimated).
Who Can Still Get Medigap Plan F?
Plan F is no longer available to anyone who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020.
However, if you were eligible before that date, you may still:
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Keep your existing Plan F coverage, or
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Enroll in Plan F through certain insurers (if available in your state).
That said, some older Plan F enrollees have reported rising premiums due to a shrinking risk pool—fewer new members means insurers have less healthy risk to balance.
Why Many People Are Switching to Plan G
Even though Plan G doesn’t cover the Part B deductible, it’s often more cost-effective overall. Here’s why:
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Lower premiums: Plan G typically costs less than Plan F.
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Minimal difference: Since the Part B deductible is only a few hundred dollars annually, the premium savings often exceed what you’d pay out-of-pocket.
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Future availability: Plan G remains open to all new Medicare enrollees, meaning more stable long-term pricing.
Compare options HERE & start your health plan journey.
Which Medigap Plan Is the Best?
When people ask “what Medigap plan is the best,” the answer depends on your personal needs, budget, and eligibility:
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Plan G: Best for most people entering Medicare today—comprehensive coverage with predictable costs.
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Plan F: Ideal only if you’re grandfathered in and enjoy stable premiums.
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Plan N: A good alternative if you want a lower premium and don’t mind small copays for doctor visits or ER trips.
Quick Tip: Compare quotes across multiple insurers—rates can vary widely for the same standardized plan. Use Healthcare.com or speak to a licensed agent at 877-388-1028 (TTY 711) for help evaluating your options.
Pros and Cons Overview
| Plan | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Medigap Plan F | – Covers all Medicare-approved costs – No out-of-pocket expenses after premium – Simple, predictable budgeting |
– Not available to new enrollees – Higher premiums – Smaller risk pool could mean rising costs |
| Medigap Plan G | – Nearly identical coverage to Plan F – Lower monthly premiums – Available to all beneficiaries – Stable long-term pricing |
– Doesn’t cover the Part B deductible (around $288 in 2026) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is Plan G better than Plan F?
For most people, yes. The only difference is the Part B deductible, and Plan G usually offers better overall value.
2. Can I switch from Plan F to Plan G?
Yes, but you may need to go through medical underwriting, depending on your state and the insurer.
3. How much is the Part B deductible?
In 2026, it’s expected to be around $288. This amount is set by Medicare each year.
Conclusion: The Bottom Line
When comparing Medigap Plan F vs Plan G, the best plan depends on your eligibility and how you prefer to handle your healthcare expenses.
If you’re new to Medicare, Plan G offers almost identical protection as Plan F—often for less money. And if you already have Plan F, it’s worth reviewing your rates to see if switching could save you in the long run.
Ready to find your Medigap plan?
Compare plans now at Healthcare.com or call 877-388-1028 (TTY 711) to speak with a licensed medicare agent, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. ET.
Shop for a Medicare plan with additional benefits!
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