Top 5 Medicare Supplement Plans Compared for 2026
Choosing a Medicare Supplement plan can feel like picking between equally important trade-offs. You want predictable monthly costs, but also protection if serious health costs hit. This guide compares the top 5 Medicare Supplement plans for 2026, focusing on what each covers, where the gaps are, and whether Plan G’s higher premium is really worth it.
Number of standardized Medigap plans: 10 (Plans A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, N) ·
Most popular plan among new enrollees (2026): Plan G ·
Plan F availability: Closed to new beneficiaries after January 1, 2020 ·
Average monthly premium range for Plan G: $100–$200 depending on location and insurer
Quick snapshot
- Plan G covers Part B excess charges; Plan N does not. (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority))
- Mounjaro is covered by Medicare Part D for diabetes when on formulary. (Medicare.gov (federal program guide)) (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority))
- There are 10 standardized Medigap plans. (Medicare.gov (federal program guide)) (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority))
- Whether Mounjaro or Ozempic will be covered for weight loss in the future.
- Exact premium changes for 2027 Medigap plans.
- Plan F closed to new enrollees after January 1, 2020, making Plan G the most comprehensive option. (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority)) (Medicare.gov (federal program guide))
- In 2026 the Part B deductible is $283. (Medicare.gov (federal program guide))
- Medigap premiums will likely rise in 2027; comparing rates annually is key.
- Drug coverage rules for GLP-1s may shift—stay updated on Part D formularies.
The following key facts provide a quick reference for Medigap plan details.
| Fact | Value |
|---|---|
| Number of standardized Medigap plans | 10 |
| Most popular plan in 2026 | Plan G |
| Average monthly premium for Plan G | $140 (varies by state and insurer) |
| Plan F availability | Closed to new enrollees after January 1, 2020 |
| Part B deductible 2026 | $283 (Medicare.gov (federal program guide)) |
| Out-of-pocket limit for Plan K (2026) | $7,220 (Medicare.gov (federal program guide)) |
What are the top 5 medicare supplement plans for 2026?
The five plans most relevant to new enrollees in 2026 are Plan G, Plan N, Plan K, Plan L, and Plan A (or Plan D, which is similar to Plan G but not commonly sold). Plan G is the most comprehensive coverage available to beneficiaries who became eligible after 2020, since Plan F is no longer an option. (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority))
Plan N offers lower premiums but requires copays for doctor and ER visits. Plans K and L have lower monthly costs but share costs until an out-of-pocket limit is reached. Plan A provides basic benefits at the lowest premium. The trade-off: a lower premium often means more exposure when health costs spike.
The most popular plan for new enrollees is Plan G because it covers nearly everything except the Part B deductible. The catch: you pay for that predictability with a higher monthly premium.
The implication: the choice depends on how much upfront cost you’re willing to trade for peace of mind.
Is Plan G the best Medicare Supplement?
Plan G covers all Part A and Part B coinsurance except the Part B deductible ($283 in 2026). It also covers Part B excess charges, meaning if a doctor bills more than Medicare approves, Plan G picks up the difference. (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority)) The main disadvantage is that you must pay the Part B deductible out‑of‑pocket. Premiums vary widely by insurer and region, typically $100–$200 per month.
What is the disadvantage of Plan G?
- You pay the Part B deductible out‑of‑pocket ($283 in 2026). (Medicare.gov (federal program guide))
- Premiums are the highest among the popular plans.
- Not all insurers offer it in every state.
Is Medicare Plan G worth it for seniors?
For seniors who want near‑complete protection against Part A and Part B gaps and are willing to pay the higher premium, Plan G is consistently rated the most popular Medigap plan for new enrollees due to its balance of coverage and cost. (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority))
How much does plan G cost per month for seniors?
Monthly premiums range from $100 to $200, depending on age, location, and the insurer. Shopping around can save $50 or more per month for identical coverage, since benefits are standardized.
“Plan G is the closest current alternative to Plan F for people who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020.”
Kiplinger (personal-finance authority)
The implication: if you value simplicity and don’t want surprise bills, Plan G is likely your best bet. The cost: you pay more upfront each month.
What is the difference between Medicare Plan N and Plan G?
The key difference is that Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges, and it requires copays for some doctor visits and emergency room visits (up to $20 and $50 respectively in 2026 after the Part B deductible is met). (Kiplinger (personal-finance authority)) Both plans cover the Part A deductible ($1,736 in 2026). Neither covers the Part B deductible.
Plan G’s higher premium buys you freedom from copays and protection against excess charges. Plan N’s lower premium means you share some costs at the point of service.
Five plans, one pattern: you trade premium certainty for out‑of‑pocket flexibility.
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N | Plan K | Plan L | Plan A |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Covers Part B excess charges | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Doctor visit copay | $0 | Up to $20 | 50% coinsurance | 25% coinsurance | 100% of Part B coinsurance |
| ER copay | $0 | $50 | 50% coinsurance | 25% coinsurance | 100% of Part B coinsurance |
| Covers Part B deductible | No | No | No | No | No |
| Out‑of‑pocket limit | None | None | $7,220 | $3,610 | None |
| Typical monthly premium | $140 | $100–$130 | $50–$70 | $70–$100 | $50–$80 |
The pattern: Plan G and N offer the most coverage but differ in how you share costs. Plans K and L cap your annual exposure. Plan A is a budget option with basic coverage.
Is Mounjaro covered by Medicare for diabetes?
Yes, Mounjaro is covered under Medicare Part D for diabetes when prescribed and when the drug is on the plan’s formulary. It is not covered for weight loss under Medicare. (Medicare.gov (federal program guide)) Cost after Medicare coverage often ranges from $25 to $100 per month depending on the Part D plan and manufacturer discounts.
How much does Mounjaro cost per month?
Without insurance, the list price is about $1,000 per month. With Medicare Part D coverage and manufacturer savings programs, many beneficiaries pay between $25 and $100 monthly.
Is Medicare going to cover Ozempic in 2026?
Ozempic coverage in 2026 depends on individual Part D plan formularies. Medicare does not directly cover it for weight loss, but it is covered for diabetes when prescribed and on formulary.
What this means: if you take Mounjaro or Ozempic for diabetes, check your Part D plan’s formulary each year. For weight loss, you will likely pay out‑of‑pocket unless future rules change.
What are Medicare Supplement plans?
Medigap policies are private insurance policies that fill gaps in Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). There are 10 standardized plans labeled A through N (excluding E, H, I, J). Plans are regulated by both federal and state laws, ensuring consistent coverage within each lettered plan. (Medicare.gov (federal program guide)) Medigap policies do not cover prescription drugs; that requires a separate Part D plan. For more on what Part B covers, see our guide on What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
“Medigap policies are standardized across most states – plan benefits are identical regardless of which company sells it.”
Medicare.gov (federal program guide)
The foundation: once you choose a lettered plan, coverage is identical no matter which insurer sells it. Premiums vary, so shop around.
Upsides
- Standardized benefits make comparison straightforward.
- Plan G offers the most complete coverage for new enrollees.
- Lower‑cost options (K, L) cap annual out‑of‑pocket costs.
- No network restrictions – any Medicare‑accepting provider is available.
Downsides
- Plan F is closed to new beneficiaries.
- High premiums for comprehensive plans can strain fixed incomes.
- No drug coverage – must buy a separate Part D plan.
- Premium pricing varies unpredictably by insurer each year.
The foundation: understanding these basics helps you evaluate your options.
Understanding the Medicare and Medicaid differences can help clarify which coverage gaps your supplement plan needs to fill.
Frequently asked questions
Which Medicare Supplement plan is best for seniors on a fixed income?
Plans K or L offer lower monthly premiums and cap annual out‑of‑pocket costs, making them a good fit for fixed‑income beneficiaries who want predictable exposure.
Can I switch Medigap plans at any time?
Generally, you can switch during open enrollment periods or if you have guaranteed issue rights. Outside those windows, insurers may deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on health.
Does Plan G cover prescription drugs?
No. Medigap plans do not cover prescription drugs. You need a separate Part D plan for drug coverage.
What is the cheapest Medigap plan?
Plan A typically has the lowest premium, but it provides only basic benefits. Plan K also has a low premium with a 50% coinsurance structure.
Are Medigap premiums tax-deductible?
Medigap premiums are generally tax‑deductible as medical expenses if you itemize deductions and they exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.
Do Medicare Supplement plans cover dental or vision?
No. Original Medicare does not cover routine dental or vision, and Medigap plans only cover what Medicare covers.
How do I enroll in a Medigap plan?
You enroll by contacting a private insurance company that sells Medigap policies. The best time to enroll is during the six‑month Medigap Open Enrollment Period after you turn 65 and have Part B.
For most seniors turning 65 in 2026, the choice comes down to Plan G for comprehensive coverage or Plan N for lower premiums with point‑of‑service cost‑sharing. The implication: if you visit doctors frequently or want to avoid every possible surprise bill, Plan G is the stronger safety net. For a fixed income with flexibility, Plan N saves money each month. Seniors should compare premiums across at least three insurers to find the best value for their situation.
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