Medicare Supplement Plans in New York

What Are Medicare Supplement Plans in New York?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older, as well as younger people with qualifying disabilities or health conditions (e.g., end-stage renal disease).

Original Medicare includes Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance), and while it covers many services, it still leaves you responsible for out-of-pocket costs like deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Medicare Supplement plans help cover those expenses.

Medigap plans are standardized by letter (A through N). Each plan letter provides the same benefits across insurers, but pricing and availability may differ.
Learn how these plans work and how they benefit residents of New York.

When Can You Enroll in a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Policy?

Unlike most states, New York offers continuous guaranteed access to Medigap plans year-round. That means you can apply for a Medigap policy at any time, and insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge you more based on your health status or preexisting conditions.

Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period still begins when you are both 65 or older and enrolled in Medicare Part B. However, New York’s rules provide extra protections even outside this window.

If you’re under 65 and qualify for Medicare due to a disability or end-stage renal disease, Medigap insurers in New York may not be required to offer coverage, but you should check with the New York Department of Financial Services or a licensed agent for guidance on options.

You may still face a waiting period for coverage of a preexisting condition, unless you had prior “creditable coverage” with no break in coverage longer than 63 days.

Unlimited Open Enrollment: Medicare supplement plans are not underwritten year-round. All plans are available in guaranteed issue situations.

What Are the Most Popular Medicare Supplement Plans?

Nationwide, the most commonly selected Medigap plans are:

• Plan F – Offers the most comprehensive coverage but is only available to people eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
• Plan G – Similar to Plan F but does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible.
• Plan N – Covers most costs, with copayments for certain doctor visits and ER trips. It does not cover Part B excess charges.

Each of these plans provides varying levels of coverage to fit different needs, and are widely available from insurers in New York.

How Do You Choose a Medicare Supplement Plan?

Start by selecting a plan letter (e.g., G or N) based on your health needs and expected medical usage.

Explore plan options online or contact a licensed insurance agent for assistance.
Even though coverage is standardized by plan letter, premiums may vary depending on the insurer due to pricing structures:

• Attained age rating: Premiums increase as you age.
• Issue age rating: Premiums are based on your age when you first buy the plan and do not increase with age.
• Community rating: Everyone pays the same premium regardless of age.

Always compare the same plan type across insurers—for example, Plan G from one company vs. Plan G from another.

How Much Do Medigap Policies Cost?

Medigap premiums in New York vary based on:

• Your age and gender
• Tobacco use
• Plan type
• Pricing method used by the insurer

What If You Want to Change Your Medicare Supplement Plan?

New York offers year-round enrollment for Medicare Supplement plans, which means you can switch plans at any time. You won’t be denied coverage or charged more because of your health.

If you decide to switch to a Medicare Advantage plan instead, be sure to disenroll from your Medigap policy first.

What Are Alternatives to Medicare Supplement Plans?

Medicare Advantage plans, also known as Part C, are an alternative to Original Medicare. These plans are provided by Medicare-approved private insurance companies and typically include:

• Part A (hospital)
• Part B (medical)
• Most also include Part D (prescription drugs), along with benefits such as dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs.

Rather than enrolling in both a Medigap plan and a standalone drug plan, you might consider a Medicare Advantage plan if you prefer an all-in-one solution.

Learn more about New York Medicare Advantage plans.

Medicare Part D?

Medicare Part D plans offer standalone prescription drug coverage.

• Who needs it: If you’re enrolled in Original Medicare and need prescription coverage, you typically buy a separate Part D plan.
• What it covers: Prescription medications. Coverage and costs vary by plan.
• How it’s offered: Through private insurance companies approved by Medicare.
• Not needed if: You’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes drug coverage (MAPD).

Do Medigap Plans Cover Prescription Drugs?

No. Medigap plans do not include coverage for prescription drugs. You’ll need to purchase a separate Medicare Part D plan for medication needs.

Medicare Resources in New York

New York residents have access to several programs that offer free help with Medicare:

• HIICAP – The Health Insurance Information Counseling and Assistance Program provides free, unbiased counseling on Medicare topics. Call 800-701-0501.
• New York Department of Financial Services – Offers consumer protections and educational resources. Visit dfs.ny.gov.
• NY EPIC Program – Assists income-eligible seniors with prescription drug costs. Call 800-332-3742.
• New York Medicaid – Provides health coverage to low-income individuals, including seniors and people with disabilities. Call 800-541-2831.

Next Steps

If a Medicare Supplement plan in New York fits your needs, take the next step by comparing available plans. You can browse options online or connect with a licensed insurance agent to receive personalized support and expert guidance.