Understanding Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans: F, G and N Explained

If you’re turning 65 or planning for Medicare, you may have heard about “Medigap” — extra coverage that helps fill in the holes left by Original Medicare. With several options available, Plans F, G and N are among the most popular, but choosing the right one depends on your budget and health needs.

This guide will walk you through how these plans work, what they cover and how to decide which one fits best during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period.

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Step 1: Get to Know Original Medicare

Before comparing Medigap plans, it helps to understand the basics of Original Medicare, which includes:

• Part A – Covers hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice care and some home health services.
• Part B – Covers outpatient and preventive services like doctor visits, lab work and X-rays.

Original Medicare covers a lot, but not everything. You’ll still have deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments — that’s where a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plan can help.

Step 2: What Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) Plans Do

Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies to help pay the costs that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) doesn’t. These plans are standardized, meaning each plan type (F, G, N, et c.) includes the same core benefits, no matter which insurance company offers it.

However, coverage in Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin follows slightly different rules, so check your state’s guidelines before enrolling.

Here’s what Medigap plans generally don’t cover:

• Long-term care.
• Vision, dental or hearing.
• Eyeglasses or private nursing care.

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Step 3: Comparing Plans F, G, and N

Let’s look at how these three Medigap plans stack up:

• Plan F: The most comprehensive option. It covers nearly all out-of-pocket costs, including the Part B deductible. However, it’s only available to people who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
• Plan G: Similar to Plan F, but does not cover the Part B deductible. It’s often the most popular option for new enrollees because it provides extensive coverage and predictable costs.
• Plan N: Offers slightly lower premiums, but you may pay small copays — up to $20 for office visits and up to $50 for ER visits (if you aren’t admitted).

All three plans cover your share of hospital and medical costs, but the difference lies in premiums and out-of-pocket expenses.

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Step 4: When to Enroll in a Medicare Supplement Insurance Plan

The best time to buy a Medigap policy is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period — a six-month window that begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B.

During this time:

• You can buy any plan sold in your state, regardless of health conditions.
• Insurers can’t deny you coverage or charge higher premiums based on your health.

If you wait until after your enrollment period ends, insurance companies may use medical underwriting to decide your rates or eligibility. That means you could pay more or be denied coverage entirely.

Some states have their own rules offering extra enrollment opportunities, so it’s worth checking local guidelines.

Step 5: How to Compare and Shop for Medigap Plans

Finding the right Medigap plan takes a bit of research. Here’s a simple way to approach it:

1. Check which insurers offer Medigap plans in your area.
2. Compare benefits side by side — especially between Plans F, G and N.
3. Review pricing carefully, since companies can charge different rates for the same standardized plan.
4. Consider your health and budget — a plan with higher premiums might save you money if you see doctors often.

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, you can work with a licensed insurance agent or directly with the insurer to enroll.

Step 6: Choosing the Right Fit

When it comes to Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans F, G and N, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

• If you want maximum coverage and were eligible before 2020, Plan F might make sense.
• If you prefer broad coverage without paying for the Part B deductible, Plan G is a strong choice.
• If you’d rather save on premiums and don’t mind small copays, Plan N may be a better fit.

Remember that Medigap policies are designed to work with Original Medicare — not replace it.

Final Thoughts

Selecting a Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) plan is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as you transition to Medicare. Take the time to compare options carefully, understand the timing of enrollment, and consider how your medical needs and budget may change over time.

If you’re unsure where to start, speaking with a Medicare advisor or licensed insurance broker can help you make a confident, informed decision during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period.

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