If you’re shopping for a Medicare Supplement plan and trying to decide between Medigap Plan N vs. Plan G, you’re not alone. These two plans are among the most popular choices for people turning 65—and for good reason. Plan G offers the most coverage of all the available Medigap Plans while Plan N provides slightly less coverage at a lower cost. But how different are they really, and which one is the better value? Let’s take a closer look below.

Medigap Plan N vs Plan G: What’s the Difference Between them?

Both MedSupp Plan G and Plan N help cover gaps in Original Medicare, but there are a few key differences in what they cover.

Medigap Plan G is the more comprehensive option available to those new to Medicare after 2020. It covers nearly all Medicare’s out-of-pocket costs except for the Part B deductible of $257 . Read more about Medigap Plan G here.

Medigap Plan N is very similar and also doesn’t cover the Part B deductible. Plan N, however, doesn’t cover Part B excess charges and requires copays for some services. See breakdown below:

  • Medigap Excess Charges are fees —up to 15%—that a doctor can charge if they don’t accept Medicare’s standard rates (called the Medicare Assignment). But here’s the good news: most doctors do accept Medicare assignment, so you’re unlikely to run into these Excess charges. (Source: Medicare.gov). And while Plan N doesn’t cover excess charges, they are rare—most doctors who accept Medicare don’t charge them. In fact, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation less than 1% of non pediatric doctors have opted out of Medicare and charge excess charges. (Source)
  • Plan N also requires you to pay up to $20 for doctor visits and up to $50 for emergency room visits (if you’re not admitted to the hospital). Read more about Medigap Plan N here.

Is Medigap Plan N Cheaper Than Plan G?

Yes, Medigap Plan N is almost always less expensive than Plan G when it comes to monthly premiums. On average, seniors can save about $40 per month by choosing Plan N, depending on their location and insurance provider.

But remember—those lower premiums come with a trade-off: you’ll have some out-of-pocket costs when you go to the doctor or ER, and there’s a chance (though small) of encountering Part B excess charges. Still, many of our Senior65.com clients find the savings with Plan N more than worth it.

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Why Are Plan N Premiums Lower Than Plan G?

It all comes down to risk-sharing. With Plan N, you’re agreeing to pay small copays and accept the possibility of some extra charges. This makes it a less risky plan for insurers to offer, which is why they can keep premiums lower.

For healthy individuals who don’t visit the doctor often or those looking to cut monthly costs, Plan N can be a smart way to maintain great coverage without overpaying.

State-Specific Considerations That Affect Cost

Medigap pricing can vary a lot by state. Some states restrict excess charges (like New York and Massachusetts), while others have competitive pricing rules or unique switching rights.

That means Plan N might be a better deal in some areas than others. Want to know how it works in your state? Click here to get a personalized quote or check out our state-specific Medigap guides.

Can You Switch Between Plan N and Plan G Later?

Yes, switching between plans is possible, but it’s not always easy. If you’re outside your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, don’t qualify for Guaranteed Issue, or don’t have state specific switching rules, you’ll likely need to answer health questions and go through underwriting. That’s why it’s important to pick a plan you’re comfortable keeping for the long term. Need a hand? Just drop a comment below or give Senior65.com a call at 800-930-7956. One of our team members will help you—for free—to find the Medigap plan that fits you best.

Not sure if you’d qualify if you have to answer health questions? Use our Underwriting Checker to find out.

Can I Switch From Plan G to Plan N Without Medical Underwriting?

Sometimes! If you live in a state with a Medigap Birthday Rule—like California, Oregon, Illinois, Virginia, or ten other states—you may be able to switch from Plan G to Plan N with no health questions during your annual window.

Each state has different rules, so it’s best to review our full guide: Medigap Birthday Rule: Ultimate Guide to Laws in Every State. Also, you can check our “Medicare Insurance Switching: Ultimate Guide” for ways to switch plans without the Underwriting or the Birthday Rule.

Is Medigap Plan N the Best Deal in 2025?

If your goal is to save money on premiums while still having strong coverage, Plan N is a serious contender. The trade-offs are small copays and rare excess charges—which most seniors barely notice. Read more about it here: “Medigap: Most Popular Plans“.

For many, Plan N offers a “sweet spot” of protection and affordability. Medigap Plan G is also a great choice—there’s a reason it’s become the most popular option in most states over the past few years. But everyone’s needs are different. Use our Instant Medigap Quote Tool to compare Plan G and Plan N pricing in your area.

Choosing the Right Medigap Plan: What Else to Consider

Think about how often you see the doctor, your monthly budget, and whether you mind occasional small copays. Also check if your state offers extra protections like the Birthday Rule—these could allow you to switch later without underwriting.

Need personalized advice? We’re happy to walk you through the options. Just call us at 800-930-7956 or leave a comment—there’s never a fee to work with us.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Medigap Plan N vs. Plan G

Q: Which plan is better—Plan N or Plan G?

A: That really depends on what matters most to you. If you prefer to pay a little more each month and avoid almost all out-of-pocket costs, Plan G is the most comprehensive option. But if you’re healthy and don’t mind paying small copays when you visit the doctor or ER, Plan N could save you money in the long run.

Q: How much cheaper is Plan N compared to Plan G?

A: On average, Plan N premiums are about $40 lower per month than Plan G, depending on your state and insurer. That adds up—especially if you don’t go to the doctor very often. Just remember to factor in the occasional copays and Part B excess charges (which, again, are rare).

Q: Can I switch from Plan G to Plan N later?

A: Yes, you can—but depending on your situation, you might have to answer health questions (that’s called medical underwriting). The exception? If you live in a Medigap Birthday Rule State you might qualify to switch during your birthday month without any health questions. We can help you find out if that applies to you.

Q: What are Part B excess charges anyway?

A: Great question. These are small additional fees—up to 15%—that a doctor can charge if they don’t accept Medicare’s standard rates. But here’s the good news: most doctors accept Medicare assignment, so you’re unlikely to run into these charges. That’s why we say don’t let excess charges scare you away from Plan N.

Q: Does Plan N cover everything else that Plan G does?

A: Almost! Both plans cover the big stuff: hospital stays, skilled nursing, hospice, and foreign emergency travel. The key differences are that Plan N requires small copays for office and ER visits and doesn’t cover excess charges. Plan G picks up all of that—except for the Part B deductible, which neither plan covers.

Ready to Compare? Get Your Personalized Medigap Quote

No need to guess which plan fits best. Use our Wizard Tool to compare Plan G and Plan N and then get an Instant Medigap premiums side by side—no contact info required.

Still not sure? Call us at 800-930-7956. We’ll walk you through your choices, answer your questions, and help you enroll with confidence. We never charge a fee, and no one can sell Medigap for less than we can. Let’s find your perfect fit today.