Quick answer: best Medigap plan in 2026
Plan G is the best Medigap plan for most new enrollees — broadest coverage available today, universally available, the choice of new beneficiaries.
Plan N is the runner-up — typically saves ~$30/month vs Plan G with $20 office and $50 ER copays. Wins if you visit the doctor fewer than 13 times per year.
High-Deductible Plan G is the best low-premium pick ($40-$70/mo) — same coverage as Plan G after a $2,870 federal annual deductible. Best for healthy beneficiaries.
Plan F is closed to anyone Medicare-eligible after January 1, 2020 — not an option for new enrollees.
Plan G vs Plan N vs HD-G — side-by-side
| Plan | Typical premium (2026) | Out-of-pocket exposure | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan G MOST POPULAR | $110 – $200/mo | Part B deductible only ($257 in 2026) | Most new enrollees who want predictable monthly costs |
| Plan N | $90 – $160/mo | $20 office copay, $50 ER copay (waived if admitted), Part B deductible, possible excess charges | Low-utilization beneficiaries (under 13 doctor visits/yr) |
| HD Plan G | $40 – $70/mo | $2,870 annual deductible, then Plan G coverage | Healthy enrollees wanting catastrophic-only coverage |
| Plan F | Varies (existing only) | None (covers everything) | CLOSED to new enrollees post-2020 |
The break-even between Plan G and Plan N
Plan N typically saves ~$30/month in premium vs Plan G but adds copays at the point of service. The math:
- Plan N premium savings: ~$360/year
- Plan N office copay: $20 per non-preventive doctor visit
- Plan N ER copay: $50 (waived if admitted)
Break-even: roughly 13 non-preventive doctor visits per year + 2 non-admitted ER visits. Below that utilization, Plan N wins. Above that — or if you live in a state that allows Part B excess charges and your providers charge them — Plan G wins.
See which plan is best for your specific utilization pattern
Get A Free Quote →Best Medigap carriers in 2026
Here's the thing about Medigap carriers: coverage is federally standardized. Plan G from Mutual of Omaha is identical to Plan G from Aetna in terms of what it pays. Only two things differ across carriers:
- Starting premium — same coverage can cost 30-50% more from one carrier vs another in the same ZIP code
- Rate-increase history — premiums rise as you age; some carriers raise them aggressively, others stay stable
The "best" carrier depends on your state, age, and how long you expect to keep the policy. Switching carriers later usually requires medical underwriting (carrier can decline you or charge more for conditions), so locking in a carrier with stable rate history matters.
Top Medigap carriers — what each is known for
Mutual of Omaha
One of the largest Medigap carriers nationwide. Strong household discount (often 12% off when both spouses enroll). Generally moderate starting premium with reasonably stable rate-increase history.
AARP / UnitedHealthcare
The largest Medigap carrier overall. Requires AARP membership ($16/yr). Competitive premium in most states, established renewal stability. Often the default choice but not always the cheapest.
Aetna (CVS Health)
Strong CVS Health financial backing. Competitive Plan G/N pricing in many states. Integration with CVS pharmacy network for Part D pairing.
Cigna
Competitive Plan G and Plan N pricing especially in Texas, Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. Solid rate-stability history.
Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
Strong in BCBS-licensed states (CA, IN, KY, MO, OH, WI, etc.). Brand recognition is high; premium competitive but rate-history varies by state.
Humana
Strong Medicare-specific brand. Nationwide Plan G and Plan N availability. Easy bundle with Humana Part D drug plans.
Bankers Fidelity
Often the most competitive carrier for HD-Plan G specifically. Smaller carrier but solid financial rating.
Manhattan Life
Strong in select states. Often underrated by consumers but competitive premium when ranked head-to-head.
See which carrier ranks best in your specific state and ZIP code
Get A Free Quote →How to pick the best Medigap plan for you
The "best" plan and carrier depend on three personal factors:
- Expected medical utilization. High utilization (specialists, frequent visits, prescriptions outside Part D) → Plan G. Low utilization → Plan N. Healthy and want catastrophic-only → HD-G.
- State rules. Birthday-rule states (CA, ID, IL, KY, LA, MD, MN, NV, OK, OR) let you switch carriers once per year without underwriting — so picking the lowest starting premium is less risky there. Other states require underwriting for switches, so rate-stability history matters more.
- Travel patterns. Medigap works at any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide. If you travel frequently or split time between states, Medigap beats Medicare Advantage (which has network restrictions). For the Medigap-vs-MA decision specifically, see our Medigap Explained guide.
A licensed independent Medicare agent quotes every major carrier in your state at no cost. They rank carriers by current premium AND historical rate-increase pattern, then explain which is the best fit for your specific situation. Same premium whether you enroll through an agent or directly with the carrier — agents are paid a commission by the carrier.
Ready to see your top Medigap options ranked for your state?
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