Original Medicare does not pay every covered health care cost. Medicare Supplement Insurance, commonly called Medigap, is designed to help pay certain out-of-pocket costs for people with Original Medicare.

What Medigap may cover

Depending on the standardized plan and state rules, a Medigap policy may help pay certain deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments associated with Original Medicare. It generally does not work with Medicare Advantage plans.

Medigap is different from Medicare Advantage

Medigap supplements Original Medicare; Medicare Advantage is an alternative way to receive Part A and Part B benefits through a private plan. These are different approaches, so compare them carefully before choosing coverage.

Premiums and eligibility

Medigap policies have premiums, and pricing can vary by insurer, location, age, and other permitted factors. Enrollment rights and medical underwriting rules can depend on when you apply and your circumstances.

What to compare

Review monthly premiums, benefits, rate-change history where available, insurer reputation, and whether the policy meets your needs. Standardized benefits can make comparisons easier, but costs still differ.

Before you enroll

Understand your enrollment rights and whether switching later could involve medical underwriting. Ask a qualified, licensed professional or your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for help.

Important: Rules vary by state and individual circumstances. Confirm details at Medicare.gov and your state insurance department.