Medicare Supplement Plan G vs. Plan N: Complete Comparison
Plan G is the most comprehensive Medigap plan available to new enrollees, covering nearly all out-of-pocket costs. Plan N costs less but requires copays for some visits and doesn't cover Part B excess charges. Plan G provides maximum predictability; Plan N offers lower premiums with modest cost-sharing.
For those choosing Medigap (Medicare Supplement insurance), Plan G and Plan N are the two most popular options. Both work with Original Medicare to cover gaps in coverage, but they differ in comprehensiveness and cost.
Understanding these differences helps you choose between maximum coverage (Plan G) and a cost-effective balance (Plan N).
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part A coinsurance/hospital costs | 100% covered | 100% covered |
| Part B coinsurance | 100% covered | 100% covered (with copays) |
| Blood (first 3 pints) | 100% covered | 100% covered |
| Part A hospice coinsurance | 100% covered | 100% covered |
| Skilled nursing facility coinsurance | 100% covered | 100% covered |
| Part A deductible | 100% covered | 100% covered |
| Part B deductible | Not covered | Not covered |
| Part B excess charges | 100% covered | Not covered |
| Foreign travel emergency | 80% covered | 80% covered |
| Office visit copays | $0 | Up to $20 |
| ER copays (not admitted) | $0 | Up to $50 |
Plan G Coverage
Plan G is the most comprehensive Medigap plan available to those newly eligible for Medicare (Plan F is no longer available to new enrollees). After paying the annual Part B deductible ($240 in 2025), Plan G covers virtually all remaining out-of-pocket costs.
With Plan G, you pay your monthly premium, the Part B deductible once per year, and nothing else for Medicare-covered services. No copays at the doctor, no hospital coinsurance, no surprise bills.
Plan G also covers Part B excess charges—the extra amount some doctors charge above Medicare's approved amount. This protection isn't included in Plan N.
Plan N Coverage
Plan N provides comprehensive coverage at a lower premium than Plan G, but with modest cost-sharing. You'll pay copays of up to $20 for office visits and up to $50 for emergency room visits that don't result in admission.
Plan N doesn't cover Part B excess charges. While excess charges are rare (most providers accept Medicare assignment), when they occur you're responsible for up to 15% above Medicare's approved amount.
For many people, Plan N's lower premium more than offsets the occasional copays, making it the more cost-effective choice.
Cost Comparison
Plan G premiums are typically 15-25% higher than Plan N premiums from the same insurer. The exact difference varies by location, age, and insurance company.
Plan N's copays add up if you visit doctors frequently. A few office visits per month at $20 each can offset premium savings. For infrequent healthcare users, Plan N's lower premium usually wins.
Consider your typical healthcare usage: if you see doctors rarely, Plan N likely costs less overall. If you have many regular appointments, Plan G's higher premium may be worthwhile for $0 copays.
Part B Excess Charges Explained
Most Medicare providers "accept assignment," meaning they agree to Medicare's approved amount as full payment. When they accept assignment, there are no excess charges.
Providers who don't accept assignment can charge up to 15% more than Medicare approves. You're responsible for this excess. Plan G covers it; Plan N doesn't.
Excess charges are relatively rare, especially in Florida where most providers accept assignment. However, if you see providers who don't accept assignment, Plan G provides protection Plan N lacks.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Plan G may be right if you:
- Want maximum cost predictability
- See doctors frequently
- Want protection against excess charges
- Prefer paying more premium for $0 out-of-pocket
- Don't want to think about copays at appointments
Plan N may be right if you:
- Want lower monthly premiums
- Don't see doctors very frequently
- Are comfortable with occasional copays
- Use providers who accept Medicare assignment
- Want good coverage at a better value
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from Plan N to Plan G later?
Yes, but you'll likely face medical underwriting. Outside your initial Medigap Open Enrollment Period, insurers can deny coverage or charge more based on health conditions.
Are Plan G and N premiums the same everywhere?
No. Premiums vary significantly by location, age, and insurance company. Always compare quotes from multiple insurers for the same plan letter.
Does Plan N cover emergencies the same as Plan G?
Both cover emergency care equally if you're admitted to the hospital. Plan N has a $50 copay for ER visits that don't result in admission; Plan G has no copay.
Find the Right Medigap Plan for You
We'll help you compare Plan G, Plan N, and other options based on your healthcare patterns.