Plan F vs Plan G vs Plan N: Complete Medigap Comparison
Comparing the three most popular Medigap plans? Learn the key differences between Plans F, G, and N to make the right choice.
The Three Most Popular Medigap Plans
Plans F, G, and N represent different approaches to Medicare supplemental coverage. Each offers comprehensive protection with varying levels of cost-sharing.
Understanding these differences helps you choose the plan that best balances coverage with affordability.
Plan F: Maximum Coverage (Existing Members Only)
Important Note
Plan F is no longer available to new Medicare beneficiaries (those eligible after January 1, 2020). Only existing members can keep this plan.
What Plan F Covers
Plan F covers virtually all Medicare gaps:
- Part A deductible
- Part B deductible
- Part A and B coinsurance
- Part B excess charges
- First 3 pints of blood
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
- Hospice coinsurance
- Foreign travel emergency coverage
What You Pay with Plan F
Monthly premium only. After that, virtually no out-of-pocket costs for Medicare-covered services.
Plan G: Near-Maximum Coverage
What Plan G Covers
Plan G covers everything Plan F covers except the Part B deductible:
- Part A deductible
- Part A and B coinsurance
- Part B excess charges
- First 3 pints of blood
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
- Hospice coinsurance
- Foreign travel emergency coverage
What You Pay with Plan G
Monthly premium plus the annual Part B deductible ($240 in 2025). After meeting the deductible, virtually no out-of-pocket costs.
Plan N: Balanced Coverage with Copays
What Plan N Covers
Plan N covers most Medicare gaps with small copays:
- Part A deductible
- Part A and B coinsurance (after Part B deductible)
- First 3 pints of blood
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
- Hospice coinsurance
- Foreign travel emergency coverage
What Plan N Doesn't Cover
- Part B deductible
- Part B excess charges
- Office visit copays (up to $20)
- Emergency room copays (up to $50)
Premium Comparison
Typical monthly premiums (vary by location and insurance company):
- Plan F: $200-$300/month
- Plan G: $150-$250/month
- Plan N: $120-$180/month
Plan N typically costs $40-$60 less per month than Plan G, and Plan G costs $30-$50 less than Plan F.
Annual Cost Comparison
Low Healthcare Usage (4 doctor visits/year)
Plan G: $2,400 premium + $240 deductible = $2,640
Plan N: $1,800 premium + $240 deductible + $80 copays = $2,120
Plan N saves $520
Moderate Healthcare Usage (15 doctor visits/year)
Plan G: $2,400 premium + $240 deductible = $2,640
Plan N: $1,800 premium + $240 deductible + $300 copays = $2,340
Plan N saves $300
High Healthcare Usage (30 doctor visits/year)
Plan G: $2,400 premium + $240 deductible = $2,640
Plan N: $1,800 premium + $240 deductible + $600 copays = $2,640
Plans cost the same
Who Should Choose Each Plan
Plan F (Existing Members)
If you already have Plan F and are satisfied with it, there's usually no reason to switch. You have the most comprehensive coverage available.
Plan G
Choose Plan G if you:
- Want comprehensive coverage with minimal out-of-pocket costs
- Prefer predictable expenses
- Use healthcare frequently
- Live in an area where doctors charge excess fees
Plan N
Choose Plan N if you:
- Want good coverage at a lower premium
- Don't mind small copays for routine care
- Use healthcare infrequently to moderately
- Are budget-conscious but want solid protection
Key Considerations
Excess Charges
Part B excess charges (when doctors charge more than Medicare pays) are rare but can be significant. Plans F and G cover these; Plan N doesn't.
Premium Stability
All Medigap plans can increase premiums over time. Plan F often has the highest increases because it attracts the sickest beneficiaries.
Underwriting
Switching between Medigap plans typically requires medical underwriting. Health issues could prevent switches or increase costs.
Switching Between Plans
From Plan F
Plan F members can usually switch to Plan G without underwriting in most states, potentially saving money with minimal coverage loss.
From Plan G to Plan N
This typically requires underwriting since Plan N offers less coverage than Plan G.
From Plan N to Plan G
This also requires underwriting since you'd be getting more coverage.
Our Recommendations
For New Medicare Beneficiaries
Plan G offers the best balance of comprehensive coverage and reasonable cost for most people.
For Budget-Conscious Seniors
Plan N provides excellent value if you're comfortable with small copays and don't mind the Part B deductible.
For Maximum Protection
Plan G gives you near-maximum coverage (similar to Plan F) at a lower cost.
The Bottom Line
All three plans offer excellent Medicare supplement coverage. Your choice depends on your balance between monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
Plan G offers the best combination of comprehensive coverage and value for most new Medicare beneficiaries.
Plan N provides good coverage at a lower cost if you're comfortable with small copays.
Plan F remains excellent coverage for existing members but is no longer available to new beneficiaries.