Medicare Supplement plans, known as Medigap plans, are sold by private companies and are structured to cover some or all of the out-of-pocket costs that Medicare Parts A and B do not cover. You are eligible for Medicare Supplement when you are enrolled in Medicare Parts A& B and are a resident of the state where yo are applying for the Medicare Supplement. Unlike Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplemental insurance plans also cover people of any age with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Medicare Supplement plan enrollment begins the month of your 65th birthday and continues five months afterward. You cannot be denied coverage if you enroll in a Medicare Supplement plan within the six month initial enrollment period. However, if you enroll late, it is possible you will be denied coverage, be charged for higher premiums based on health, or make you wait to get coverage for a pre-existing illness.
There are 10 different Medicare Supplement plans available labeled as A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, N. There are some states where certain plans are not available. The benefits can vary depending on which Medicare Supplement plan you choose but if your plan’s coverage is more comprehensive, the premium will be higher. Overall, most Medicare Supplemental plans will provide:
Certain Medicare Supplemental plans may pay for your Part B deductible as well. Supplemental Medicare insurance generally does not cover:
Like with the benefits, the cost of Medicare Supplement insurance will vary based on your plan and chosen provider. Here are some of the costs you might see:
If you want to change your Medicare Supplement insurance, you can drop a policy any time to apply for another. (But beware! You must be able to pass medical underwriting if you want to move to another provider). Otherwise, Medicare gap plans automatically renew each year as long as you continue to pay your premium on time and all your information is correct.
Take a look at the current Medicare providers we work with to compare Medicare supplement plans:
Aetna, Bue Cross Blue Shield KC, Cigna, Humana, National General, United Healthcare, Mutual of Omaha.