Medicare Supplement Plans and Medigap
Medicare Supplement, or Medigap, is a state-regulated, standardized insurance designed to cover the gaps left by Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). These gaps are your responsibility to cover, including deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Medicare supplement plans are available at different levels, from Plan A to Plan N, each offering various degrees of coverage for these out-of-pocket costs.
While these plans are standardized, meaning that the benefits of each plan remain consistent across different insurance providers, the underwriting of pre-existing conditions, premium rates, and availability can vary depending on the insurer. Here’s how it works:
Guaranteed Issue Right
You have a six-month Guaranteed Issue Period if you're turning 65 and enrolling in Medicare Part B. During this time, you can buy any Medigap policy available in your area without medical underwriting. Insurance companies cannot charge you higher premiums or deny coverage based on your health history or current conditions. However, insurers may impose a six-month waiting period to cover pre-existing conditions.
Key Features of Popular Medigap Plans for 2024 & 2025:
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Plan K:
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Out-of-pocket maximum: $5,940 (for 2024), after which the plan covers 100% of costs.
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Plan L:
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Out-of-pocket maximum: $3,470 (for 2024), after which the plan covers 100% of costs.
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Plan F:
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Offers 100% coverage of all gaps in Medicare Part A and Part B, including the Part A deductible.
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Note: Plan F is only available to those who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
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Plan G:
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Similar to Plan F, but requires you to pay the Medicare Part B deductible.
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Plan N:
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Lower premiums include copayments for certain services (up to $20 for office visits and $50 for emergency room visits, if not admitted).
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No Limit on Out-of-Pocket Costs
For most Medigap plans, there is no annual cap on out-of-pocket expenses for services not covered by Medicare. Plans K and L are exceptions, offering maximum out-of-pocket protections.
Choosing the Right Plan
When selecting a Medicare Supplement plan, consider your health, financial situation, and the services you frequently use. Each insurance company may have different premium rates and underwriting standards, so it's important to compare your options to find the best fit for your needs.
Medicare Supplement plans are an excellent way to gain peace of mind, ensuring you have additional coverage beyond what Original Medicare offers. Explore the available options for 2024 and 2025 to secure the coverage that best suits your lifestyle and health needs.
Contact us today for more details or personalized assistance in choosing the right plan!
“We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 7 organizations which offer 35 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.”