Key Takeaways
- Medicare Plan F offers the most comprehensive coverage but is only available to those eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020.
- Medicare Plan G provides almost identical coverage but requires beneficiaries to pay the Part B deductible out of pocket.
- Plan G is often the better choice for new enrollees, as it is widely available and typically has lower premiums than Plan F.
Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, help cover out-of-pocket costs not included in Original Medicare.
Plan F and Plan G are two of the most popular Medigap options, offering extensive coverage for beneficiaries.
While both plans provide robust benefits, key differences in eligibility and cost-sharing can impact which one is best for you.
This guide compares Medicare Plan F vs. Plan G, outlining their benefits, costs, and eligibility requirements to help you make an informed decision.
Medicare Supplement Plans
Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap, are designed to help cover the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t pay, such as deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.
Since medical expenses can add up quickly, having the right Medigap plan can provide peace of mind and financial stability.
What Are Medicare Supplement Plans?
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are private insurance policies designed to cover costs that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.
These plans provide greater financial predictability and reduce out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries.
Plan F and Plan G are two of the most comprehensive Medigap options, covering nearly all Medicare-related costs. However, recent changes in Medigap regulations have affected Plan F’s availability.
Why Compare Plan F and Plan G?
Both Plan F and Plan G offer significant benefits, making them ideal for those who want to minimize out-of-pocket medical costs. However, understanding their differences in coverage, costs, and eligibility is crucial for selecting the right plan.
Medicare Plan F vs. Plan G: Coverage Comparison
Both Plan F and Plan G provide extensive coverage, but the biggest difference between them is how they handle the Medicare Part B deductible.
Medicare Plan F Coverage
Medicare Plan F is often referred to as the "Cadillac plan" because it covers all Medicare-approved costs, leaving beneficiaries with virtually no out-of-pocket expenses.
Plan F Covers:
- Medicare Part A deductible, coinsurance, and hospital costs
- Medicare Part B deductible, coinsurance, and excess charges
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
- Foreign travel emergency coverage (80% up to plan limits)
Because Plan F covers the Part B deductible ($257 in 2025), policyholders do not have to pay any costs for doctor visits, outpatient services, or preventive care.
Medicare Plan G Coverage
Medicare Plan G is nearly identical to Plan F, except it does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible.
Plan G Covers:
- Medicare Part A deductible, coinsurance, and hospital costs
- Medicare Part B coinsurance and excess charges
- Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
- Foreign travel emergency coverage (80% up to plan limits)
The only cost-sharing requirement for Plan G enrollees is paying the Medicare Part B deductible out of pocket.
However, after meeting this deductible, Plan G covers all remaining Medicare-approved expenses, just like Plan F.
Cost Differences: Plan F vs. Plan G
While both plans provide comprehensive coverage, the costs associated with each can vary based on monthly premiums, deductibles, and overall savings.
Monthly Premiums
Plan F typically has higher monthly premiums than Plan G because it covers the Part B deductible.
On average, Plan F premiums range from $200 to $400 per month, while Plan G premiums range from $150 to $300 per month, depending on factors like age, location, and provider.
Part B Deductible Consideration
Since Plan G does not cover the Part B deductible ($257 in 2025), enrollees must pay this amount annually before the plan’s benefits take effect.
However, the lower premiums of Plan G often make up for this additional cost.
Rate Increases Over Time
Plan F tends to have higher annual rate increases compared to Plan G.
Since Plan F is no longer available to new Medicare beneficiaries, the risk pool consists of older policyholders, leading to higher premium hikes over time. Plan G, being open to all new enrollees, typically experiences more stable premium increases.
Eligibility and Enrollment for Plan F and Plan G
While both plans offer comprehensive benefits, Medicare regulations have changed who can enroll in Plan F, making it unavailable to newer beneficiaries.
Below, we’ll break down the eligibility requirements for each plan and the best time to enroll.
Who Can Enroll in Plan F?
Plan F is only available to individuals who became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020. If you were eligible before this date but did not enroll, you may still qualify for Plan F, depending on your state and insurance provider.
Who Can Enroll in Plan G?
Plan G is available to all Medicare beneficiaries, regardless of when they became eligible. If you are new to Medicare after January 1, 2020, Plan G is the closest alternative to Plan F in terms of coverage.
Guaranteed Issue Rights and Underwriting
If you enroll in a Medigap plan during your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period (the six months after you enroll in Part B), you can sign up without medical underwriting. Outside this period, switching plans may require underwriting, and pre-existing conditions could affect approval or pricing.
Which Plan Is Better: Medicare Plan F or Plan G?
Choosing between Medicare Plan F and Plan G depends on several factors, including cost, eligibility, and long-term financial planning.
Plan F May Be Best If:
- You were eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020 and want zero out-of-pocket costs.
- You don’t mind paying higher premiums in exchange for full coverage.
- You prefer the convenience of not paying the Part B deductible.
Plan G May Be Best If:
- You are a new Medicare beneficiary and want the most comprehensive coverage available.
- You want a lower monthly premium and are comfortable paying the Part B deductible.
- You are concerned about long-term premium stability, as Plan G generally experiences lower rate increases than Plan F.
Choosing Between Plan F and Plan G
Both Medicare Plan F and Plan G provide excellent supplemental coverage, reducing out-of-pocket medical expenses for beneficiaries. While Plan F offers 100% coverage, its higher premiums and limited availability make it less accessible.
Plan G, on the other hand, provides nearly identical benefits at a lower cost, making it the preferred choice for new enrollees.
Bottom Line
By carefully evaluating costs, coverage, and future premium increases, you can make an informed decision on whether Medicare Plan F or Plan G is the best fit for your healthcare needs.
