What You Need to Know About Medigap Plan G vs. N in New York
I’m Brian Krantz, and after 15 years in the Medicare space and helping over 15,000 retirees in New York with their enrollment in Medigap plans, I can tell you this with confidence. Choosing the right Medicare Supplement Insurance plan isn’t about picking what’s “popular”, it’s about picking what works for your healthcare needs and your wallet.
If you’re in New York City, you already know healthcare costs can be unpredictable. That’s why understanding Medigap Plan G and Plan N is critical as you approach retirement.
What Is Medigap?
First, you need to understand the basics of Medigap.
Original Medicare (Part A and Medicare Part B) gives you solid coverage, but it leaves gaps like deductibles, coinsurance, and copays that can add up fast since Original Medicare only covers 80%.
That’s where Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) comes in. These plans work alongside Original Medicare to cover your out-of-pocket costs, making your healthcare expenses more predictable. Medigap is not the same as Medicare Advantage Plans.
Lastly, Medigap plans are standardized by law. This means that every insurance company that offers Medigap must offer identical benefits. The only difference is the monthly price you pay which is why we want to shop the market for you.
Medigap Plan G vs. Plan N: The NYC Breakdown
Here is my unfiltered opinion between plan G and plan N.
Medigap Plan G: Easiest to Understand
If you want comprehensive coverage and hate surprises, Plan G is your best bet. After you pay the annual Part B deductible, your Plan G covers nearly everything else:
- Part A deductible
- Part A coinsurance and hospital costs such as inpatient hospital stays.
- Part B coinsurance
- Skilled nursing facility care
- Hospice care coinsurance
- Foreign travel emergency coverage
- Medicare Part B excess charges (those extra 15% some providers tack on if they don’t accept Medicare assignment)
Once that annual deductible is met, you won’t see copays for doctor’s office visits or emergency room visits. For many of my NYC clients who see specialists regularly, this plan offers a lot of peace of mind, even if you’re visiting top healthcare providers in Manhattan who might bill above the Medicare-approved amount.
There is also a high deductible plan G that can offer additional savings.
Medigap Plan N: Lower Premiums, Some Trade-Offs
Plan N is a great option if you want strong coverage but are okay with a little cost-sharing. The point of the Plan N is saving you some money in exchange for having a few copays.
After the Part B deductible, you’ll pay:
- Up to $20 copays for doctor’s office visits
- Up to $50 for emergency room visits (waived if admitted)
The big difference? Plan N does NOT cover Medicare Part B excess charges. Luckily, excess charges are not applicable in New York, so the main charges you need to consider are how often you are visiting the doctor’s office or prone to emergency room visits.
That’s something to confirm before enrolling.
Monthly Premiums in New York
New York is a community-rated state, meaning your age doesn’t affect your premium. However, Plan G premiums are typically higher than Plan N premiums. Many of my clients save $30–$50 per month with Plan N, but you need to weigh that against potential copays
Schedule a plan review with me and my team and we will walk you through the exact costs and savings you can expect.
Who Should Choose Which Plan?
- Plan G: Ideal for those who want comprehensive coverage, see multiple specialists, or simply want predictable costs.
- Plan N: Perfect for healthy individuals who want lower premiums and don’t mind occasional copays.
Enrollment Tips for NYC Residents
Your open enrollment period starts when you enroll in Medicare Part B.
During this time, you can choose any Medigap plan without medical underwriting. Miss it, and switching later could mean higher premiums.
FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered
What are the disadvantages of Plan N?
Plan N has lower premiums, but you’ll pay copays for office visits and ER visits. It also doesn’t cover Medicare Part B excess charges, which can be up to 15% above the approved amount if your provider doesn’t accept Medicare assignment. Luckily in NY, excess charges are not applicable.
What is the disadvantage of Plan G?
The main disadvantage is higher premiums. You pay more monthly for the peace of mind of comprehensive coverage.
Plan G is an extremely popular Medicare coverage option.
What is the difference between Plan G and Plan N?
Both cover most gaps in Original Medicare, but Plan G covers excess charges and has no copays, while Plan N has lower premiums but includes copays and doesn’t cover excess charges.
Which Medicare Supplement Plan Is Best?
It depends on your healthcare needs and budget. Plan G is best for comprehensive coverage; Plan N is best for lower premiums and occasional copays.
Who Should Consider Medicare Plan N?
Healthy individuals who want lower premiums and don’t mind copays. It’s great if your doctors accept Medicare assignment.
How do the premiums for Medigap Plan G compare to Plan N?
In NYC, Plan G typically costs $30 to $50 more per month than Plan N. Over a year, that’s $360–$600 difference.
How do I enroll in Plan G or N?
Both Medigap Plan G and Plan N are excellent choices, but the right one depends on your healthcare needs, budget, and risk tolerance.
If you want zero surprises, go with Plan G. If you’re comfortable with a few copays and want lower premiums, Plan N could be the smarter move.
Contact our team today to discuss the enrollment process and any other Medicare questions you have.
