Medicare Supplemental Insurance (Medigap Insurance)

If you are in the Original Medicare Plan (Parts A and B), there are gaps in Medicare’s coverage of the care and services you might need. Medigap insurance was designed to fill those gaps.

What is it? Medigap insurance helps to pay for what Medicare does not cover—things such as such as deductibles and coinsurance. Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies. What plan you buy should depend on both what types of care you need and what you can afford. Note: Generally, when you buy a Medigap policy, you must have Medicare Part A and Part B. If you are in a Medicare Advantage Plan or other Medicare Health Plan, you may not need a Medigap policy. Be sure to review your plan coverage to see what is and is not covered.

What does it cover? Insurance companies can only offer “standardized” policies that follow state and federal rules. Currently, 12 different Medigap plans labeled “A” through “L” are available. Plan A covers only the basic (core) benefits. These basic benefits are included in all the Medicare plans (A through L). Medigap Plans B through J offer extra benefits or combinations of benefits. Plans K and L have benefits similar to plans A through J, but they offer lower monthly premiums and higher out-of-pocket costs. Are  there specific kinds of care you need and use? Check to see if that service is covered in the plan you purchase. Note: Medigap insurance does not cover long-term care services. 

What does it cost? Medigap policy premiums vary depending on the provider and the  level of benefits provided. Before you purchase a policy, compare premiums—there can be a big difference in price from company to company for the same policy. Note: If you are married, you and your spouse must purchase separate Medigap policies. Your policy will not cover the health expenses of your spouse.