Medicare Plan F vs G: Great Supplement Plan for Utah Seniors
Medicare Plan F vs. Plan G: Understanding Your Best Options
Introduction to Medicare Supplement Plans
Medicare Supplement Insurance—often called Medigap—is designed to cover the out‑of‑pocket costs that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not fully pay. These expenses can include copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Among the various Medigap plans available, Plan F and Plan G are two of the most popular choices for Medicare beneficiaries seeking comprehensive coverage.
Key Takeaway: By filling in the gaps left by Original Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance can protect you from high out‑of‑pocket costs, potentially saving you thousands of dollars each year.
What Is Plan F?
Medicare Plan F (sometimes called Medigap Plan F) has historically been one of the most comprehensive Medigap policies. It covers:
Medicare Part A deductible
Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (beyond the standard limits)
Medicare Part B deductible
Part B coinsurance or copayment
Part B excess charges
Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) coinsurance
Foreign travel emergency care (within plan limits)
The first three pints of blood each year
Because Plan F pays the Medicare Part B deductible, beneficiaries incur almost no out‑of‑pocket expenses for covered services. However, Plan F is no longer available to individuals who became eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020. If you were Medicare‑eligible before 2020, you can still enroll in or keep Plan F.
High‑Deductible Plan F
In some areas (including states like Wisconsin), there is a high‑deductible Plan F option. This version offers lower monthly premiums in exchange for a higher deductible that you must meet before the plan’s coverage kicks in. It’s worth considering if you’re comfortable with larger upfront out‑of‑pocket costs in return for lower premiums.
What Is Plan G?
For those new to Medicare or who became eligible after January 1, 2020, Medigap Plan G is now the most comprehensive Medicare Supplement plan widely available. It covers virtually everything Plan F does, with one key exception: it does not pay the Medicare Part B deductible.
What Plan G Covers:
Medicare Part A deductible and coinsurance
Part B coinsurance or copayment
Part B excess charges
Skilled Nursing Facility coinsurance
Foreign travel emergency care
First three pints of blood each year
Though you’ll pay the Part B deductible out of pocket (set at $257 in 2025), Plan G often has lower monthly premiums than Plan F. Over the course of a year, that could lead to overall savings—depending on the premium difference compared to Plan F.
High‑Deductible Plan G
Like Plan F, Plan G also has a high‑deductible version in certain states. If you’re seeking even lower premiums and don’t mind a larger out‑of‑pocket commitment upfront, high‑deductible Plan G might be an appealing option.
Comparing Plan F and Plan G
Plan F vs. Plan G: Key Differences
Coverage of Part B Deductible:
Plan F covers the Medicare Part B deductible in full.
Plan G requires you to pay the Part B deductible out of pocket.
Monthly Premiums:
Plan F typically has higher premiums to offset that Part B deductible coverage.
Plan G premiums are often lower, but you pay the Part B deductible yourself.
Eligibility Requirements:
Plan F is only available if you became Medicare‑eligible before January 1, 2020.
Plan G is open to anyone eligible for Medicare now, making it the top‑tier Medicare Supplement plan for new enrollees.
Cost Considerations
Part B Deductible in 2025: $257 annually (~$21.42/month).
Compare the monthly premium difference between Plan F and Plan G. If Plan F is more than $21–$22 per month costlier, you might save by choosing Plan G and paying the deductible on your own.
Pro Tip: Always request multiple quotes from different insurance companies because Medigap pricing can vary widely, even for the same coverage.
Disadvantages and Special Considerations
Plan G’s Disadvantages
While Plan G is nearly all‑inclusive, it does leave the Medicare Part B deductible for you to pay. For some beneficiaries, that’s a minor inconvenience; for others, it’s a budget consideration.
Uncovered Aspects:
Part B deductible
After you meet the deductible, however, coinsurance and Part B excess charges are still fully covered.
Plan F’s Limitations for New Enrollees
Discontinued for New Beneficiaries: If you became eligible for Medicare in 2020 or later, Plan F simply isn’t an option.
Rising Premiums: Because no new, younger enrollees are entering Plan F’s risk pool, premiums may increase faster over time for those who remain in the plan.
Is Plan F Worth It?
If you’re already in Plan F and appreciate having no out‑of‑pocket costs for Part B, it can be worth staying put—especially if your monthly premium is not significantly higher than Plan G. However, if you notice your premium creeping up each year, you may want to compare quotes for Plan G.
Evaluate Annual Savings: Do the math on how much more you’re paying in monthly premiums compared to the $257 Part B deductible.
Consider Future Premium Increases: Medicare Supplement rates can rise as you age, so research each insurer’s history of rate increases.
Check Underwriting Requirements: Switching from Plan F to Plan G often requires medical underwriting unless you qualify for a special enrollment period or have guaranteed issue rights.
Decision‑Making: Which Plan Is Right for You?
Assess Your Eligibility:
If you were not eligible for Medicare until 2020 or later, Plan G is your go‑to option among the most comprehensive Medigap plans.
If you are grandfathered into Plan F, weigh its higher premium against the convenience of having no Part B deductible.
Calculate Total Costs:
Combine the monthly premium with any out‑of‑pocket expenses, such as the Part B deductible for Plan G.
Explore High‑Deductible Plans:
If you prefer lower monthly premiums and can handle a higher annual deductible, high‑deductible Plan F or Plan G might be right for you.
Check Your State Regulations:
Medigap offerings can vary by state (including Wisconsin, which has unique Medicare Supplement rules).
For Medicare Advantage plans or Part D prescription drug coverage, consult separate policies, as those differ from Medigap.
Open Enrollment Periods:
Your best time to enroll is typically during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period—a six‑month window when you can sign up without medical underwriting.
Ready for Personalized Help?
Call Our Team at (801) 901-8448 or fill out our quick online form to get a free quote on Plans F, G, or other Medicare Supplement options. Let us guide you to the best plan for your healthcare needs and budget.
Additional Resources
Medicare.gov – Official government site for Medicare information
800‑MEDICARE (800‑633‑4227) – Speak with a Medicare representative
Insurance Agents – A licensed insurance agent can provide quotes for various Medigap and insurance plans
Local SHIP Counselors – State Health Insurance Assistance Programs offer free counseling for Medicare beneficiaries
Conclusion: Your Next Steps
Whether you choose Plan F or Plan G, you’re investing in extra Medicare coverage that protects you from many of the out‑of‑pocket costs Original Medicare doesn’t cover. The key is to weigh:
Eligibility (were you Medicare‑eligible before 2020?)
Premium Differences vs. the Part B deductible
Future Rate Increases
Personal Health Needs and Budget
If you’re torn or simply want expert insights, contact an insurance company or speak with a trusted Medicare agent. They can help you navigate the enrollment period, discuss any Medicare Part D or drug plan needs, and look at alternatives like Plan N or Medicare Advantage plans for a holistic view of your options.
Ready to Choose the Right Medigap Policy?
Get in Touch Today
Call: (801) 901-8448
Visit: https://reviveinsurance.com/contact-us
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We’ve been in marketing for years with proven success—truly the best in the business at helping you find the health insurance solutions that fit your lifestyle. Let us guide you step by step toward the right decision for your Medicare journey.
Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice, nor is it a substitute for consultation with a licensed healthcare provider, insurance agent, or attorney. Always consult with a qualified professional or contact Medicare.gov directly for advice tailored to your individual situation before making any decisions about your Medicare coverage.
