If you’re comparing Medigap Plan G vs. Plan N, you’re not alone. These two plans are the most requested at Senior65.com because they cover the gaps in Medicare in slightly different ways. From benefits to costs and everything in between, we’ll help you understand what matters most to select the plan that works best for you.
Medigap Plan G vs. Plan N: What’s the Main Difference?
Choosing a Medigap plan can feel a little overwhelming at first—there are letters, numbers, and all sorts of fine print. But at its heart, Medigap (or Medicare Supplement insurance) is really just a way to give you peace of mind. It helps cover the “gaps” left by Original Medicare, like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance, so you’re not hit with surprise medical bills.
At Senior65.com, we see seniors asking most often about Plan G and Plan N—these two plans tend to offer the right balance of coverage and cost for many people turning 65. So, the main difference between these two plans is how you pay for services.
- Medigap Plan G covers tends to costs slightly more but requires no copays at the doctor, emergency room and covers Part B excess charges
- Medigap Plan N has slightly lower premiums but requires small copayments for office visits and emergency room trips. Also, Plan N doesn’t cover Part B excess charges. The good news? Most doctors accept Medicare assignment, so running into these extra charges is usually rare.
- Both Plan G and Plan N require you to pay the Part B deductible of $257.
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Medigap Plan G vs. Plan N: Key Differences at a Glance
Here’s a simple comparison to help you see the differences between Plan G and Plan N:
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | Higher | Lower |
| Doctor Visit Copay | None | $20 per visit (usually), $50 to ER |
| Hospital Coinsurance | Fully covered | Fully covered |
| Part B Excess Charges | Covered | Not covered |
| Part B Deductible | Not Covered | Not Covered |
💡 Pro Tip: Use our Instant Quote Tool to see premiums for Plan G and Plan N in your area.
Does Plan N Cover All the Same Benefits as Plan G?
Many seniors wonder if Plan N is just like Plan G, but cheaper. The truth is, both plans cover almost all of the same core benefits. They’ll both handle Medicare Part A hospital coinsurance, skilled nursing facility coinsurance, Part B coinsurance, blood transfusions, hospice care coinsurance, and foreign travel emergency coverage. Both access the same network of Medicare-accepting doctors. That’s a lot of coverage, and it’s why both plans are favorites at Senior65.com —you can check out our clients reviews here.
Remember: Plan N does not cover Part B excess charges. This is an up to 15% fee that a very small subset of doctors may bill you if they don’t accept the Medicare allowance. While not everyone will encounter these charges, it’s important to know they exist.
As we stated above, Plan N also introduces small copayments for certain doctor visits and emergency room visits that don’t lead to an inpatient stay. These are up to $20 at the doctor and up to $50 at the ER. Plan G, on the other hand, covers these costs completely. Source: Medicare.gov
Which Medigap Plan is Cheaper: G or N?
One of the first questions many seniors ask at Senior65.com is, “Which plan will cost me less every month—Plan G or Plan N?” The answer isn’t always as simple as looking at the monthly premium. While Plan N usually has a lower monthly premium than Plan G, there’s more to consider when thinking about your total healthcare costs.
Let’s use a real-life example. Imagine Mary, who sees her doctor frequently for ongoing health concerns. Even though Plan N has a lower monthly premium, those small $20 doctor visit copays can add up quickly over a year. On the other hand, George, who only goes to the doctor a few times a year, may find that Plan N’s lower premium saves him money, even with the occasional copay. This is why seniors often compare not just the premium, but also how they personally use healthcare services.
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💡 Friendly Reminder: The “cheaper” plan isn’t always the one with the lowest monthly premium. Your total costs include those unexpected doctor visit copays, and any Part B excess charges if you choose Plan N. Need more info? Read our article “Why Not Pick the Cheapest Medigap Plan? Pros, Cons, and Tips“.
Why Many Seniors Choose Plan G Despite the Higher Premium
Even though Plan G has a higher monthly premium, it gives many seniors peace of mind. Knowing that nearly all Medicare-covered costs are handled can reduce stress and eliminate the worry of surprise bills. That’s why Plan G often ends up being a popular choice for people with ongoing medical needs.
👉 Want to see exactly how much you might pay? Try our Instant Quote Tool to get a personalized comparison of Plan G and Plan N in your area. You can also check our Medigap Enrollment Trends to see what other seniors are choosing and why.
Do All Insurance Companies Charge the Same for Plan G or Plan N?
Even though the benefits of Plan G and Plan N are standardized by law, premiums can vary widely between insurance companies. One company might charge $150 a month for Plan G, while another charges $250 for the same coverage. Factors like your state, age, gender, and tobacco use can also affect your premium. That’s why shopping around is key.
👉 Use our Instant Quote Tool to see rates side-by-side and find the best option for your needs. It’s a simple way to make sure you’re getting both value and coverage.
👉 If you’re wondering, “How do I choose a Medigap company?” just click here.
Can I Switch from Plan N to Plan G Later On?
Life changes, and so do your health needs. Many seniors wonder if they can start with Plan N and move to Plan G later. The answer is yes—but there are a few things to keep in mind. Switching from Plan N to Plan G usually requires going through medical underwriting unless you’re in a special enrollment period.
Some states have special laws that favor Medigap users. In some cases, like Maine, Connecticut, and New York, these rules let you switch your plan at any time of the year, as long as you meet a few basic requirements. Another option is Missouri’s Anniversary Rule or the Medigap Birthday Rule, which is now approved in about a dozen states. If you’d like to learn more, you can check out our article: “Medigap Birthday Rule: Ultimate Guide to Laws in Every State.”
💡 Helpful tip: If you already have a Medigap plan and are thinking about switching—but don’t qualify for any special rules—our Instant Underwriting Checker can quickly show you whether you’d be accepted. It’s an easy, stress-free way to make your decision with confidence.
Read more about Medigap Plan G here.
Read more about Medigap Plan N here.
📌 Fun fact: Most calls to Senior65.com are about Plan G or Plan N. If you have questions, give us a call at 800-930-7956.
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Q&A: Medigap Plan G vs Plan N – How to Choose the Right Plan for Your Needs
Q: Which is better if I visit the doctor often?
A: Plan G is usually better because there is no coinsurance and copays after you satisfy your deductible. So your costs stay predictable.
Q: How do I know which company charges the least?
A: Premiums vary by company, so use our Instant Quote Tool to compare plans side by side.
Q: Are there any hidden fees?
A: No hidden fees, but Plan N doesn’t cover excess charges so a doctor who doesn’t accept the Medicare assignment could charge you up at 15% more. This is very rare but could happen.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re still unsure, our team at Senior65.com can walk you through the options based on your age, health, and budget. Call us at 800-930-7956—we make choosing a Medigap plan simple and stress-free!