Medigap insurance is designed to cover the gaps in original Medicare. Medigap insurance is offered by private insurance companies and is available in a wide range of plans. They are all required to offer a set of basic benefits, but some Medigap policies are designed to offer more. Original Medicare pays for a sizable portion of the healthcare services you need, but you are responsible for paying some portion, including copays, deductibles, and coinsurance.

Medigap insurance can help pay the out-of-pocket costs up to set policy limits. Some policies will cover a portion of the cost of treatment if you become ill while out of the country. Medigap insurance is officially called “Medicare Supplemental Insurance.”

Am I eligible for a Medigap plan?

To be eligible, you must have Medicare Part A and Part B and will need to pay a monthly premium for the Medigap insurance. These policies cover an individual, not a couple, so both spouses must have a policy. Suppose you currently have a Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare Part C). In that case, you are not eligible for Medigap insurance unless you choose to change your plan to Original Medicare, which includes Medicare Parts A and B.

Choosing the right Medicare insurance can be challenging. Every person has unique needs, and the plan you choose matters. For assistance in buying the right Medigap policy, you can speak with a local insurance agent who can explain your options, the cost, what each policy covers, whether you are eligible for Medigap insurance, or what changes could be made to become eligible.

*Disclaimer: This page has not been reviewed or endorsed by Medicare.gov or any member of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).