Medicare Supplement Plans F and G are two of the most popular Medigap policies, designed to cover gaps in Original Medicare. While they share many similarities, key differences exist in their eligibility, coverage, and costs. This article breaks down the essential aspects of Plan F and Plan G to help you make an informed decision.
Eligibility for Plan F and Plan G
Medigap Plan F Eligibility
Plan F is no longer available to new Medicare beneficiaries who became eligible after January 1, 2020. However, individuals who qualified for Medicare before this date can still purchase Plan F if it is available in their state. Those already enrolled in Plan F before the cutoff can keep their coverage.
Medigap Plan G Eligibility
Unlike Plan F, Plan G remains available to all Medicare beneficiaries regardless of when they became eligible. This inclusivity makes Plan G the go-to option for new enrollees seeking comprehensive Medigap coverage.
Coverage Comparison: Plan F vs. Plan G
Both Plan F and Plan G provide extensive coverage, but they differ in one critical aspect: the Medicare Part B deductible.
Shared Benefits
Plan F and Plan G offer identical coverage for several key benefits, including:
- Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after Original Medicare benefits are exhausted).
- Medicare Part A deductible.
- Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment.
- Medicare Part B excess charges (for providers who charge more than Medicare’s approved amount).
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance.
- First three pints of blood for medical procedures.
- Foreign travel emergency coverage (up to 80% of costs, with certain deductibles and limits).
Unique Coverage Differences
The key difference lies in the coverage of the Medicare Part B deductible:
- Plan F: Covers 100% of the Part B deductible, which is $257 in 2025.
- Plan G: Does not cover the Part B deductible, leaving beneficiaries responsible for this cost.
Cost Comparison
Premium Differences
While Plan F provides slightly more coverage, this often comes with a higher premium compared to Plan G. Depending on the insurance provider and location, Plan F may cost $10–$20 or more per month than Plan G. In some cases, the price difference is substantial, making Plan G the more cost-effective choice.
Is Plan F Worth It?
To determine if Plan F is worth the additional cost, consider the following:
- Calculate the annual premium difference between Plan F and Plan G.
- Compare this difference to the Part B deductible ($257 in 2025). If the annual cost of Plan F exceeds the deductible, Plan G may be the better option.
For example, if Plan F costs $25 more per month than Plan G, you’d pay $300 extra annually for Plan F. In this case, Plan G would save you $43 ($300 – $257).
High Deductible Options
Both Plan F and Plan G offer high-deductible versions. In 2025, these plans require beneficiaries to pay a deductible of $2,870 before coverage begins. These options may appeal to individuals seeking lower monthly premiums and are willing to cover higher initial out-of-pocket costs.
Prescription Drug Coverage
Neither Plan F nor Plan G includes prescription drug coverage. Beneficiaries who need this coverage can enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan.
State-Specific Variations
Medigap standardization varies in Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. If you reside in one of these states, the benefits and costs of Plan F and Plan G may differ. Additionally:
- Residents of these states should consult local regulations for detailed plan options.
- Those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan cannot simultaneously hold a Medigap plan.
Factors That Affect Plan Costs
The premiums for both Plan F and Plan G depend on several factors:
- Location: Plan costs vary by state.
- Age: Many insurers adjust premiums as you age.
- Health Status: Though Medigap plans are guaranteed renewable, initial pricing may depend on health conditions.
- Smoking Status: Smokers often face higher premiums.
- Gender and Marital Status: These can also influence costs.
Using tools like Medicare’s Medigap Policy Finder can help you compare premiums and find the most affordable options in your area.