Snapshot: How They Differ
| Feature | Medicare Supplement (Medigap) | Medicare Advantage (Part C) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Coverage | Fills Part A & B gaps; no extras | Must cover Part A & B services; often bundles Part D & extras |
| Doctor/ Hospital Choice | Any provider that accepts Medicare nationwide | Usually network-based (HMO/PPO) |
| Drug Coverage | Stand-alone Part D required | Usually built-in |
| Monthly Premiums (2025)* | Plan G averages $93–$300/mo depending on age & ZIP | Many plans $0–$40/mo; varies by county |
| Annual Out-of-Pocket Max | None (Medicare pays after Medigap) | Capped at $9,350 in-network in 2025 |
| Travel Flexibility | Great for snowbirds; nationwide | Emergency care only outside network/USA |
| Added Perks | Not included | Dental, vision, hearing, gym, OTC credits (plan specific) |
*Premiums shown are typical; yours may differ.
What Exactly Is Medigap?
Medicare Supplement plans (labeled A-N) are sold by private insurers to “plug the holes” in Original Medicare.
Covers: Part A deductible ($1,676/benefit period) and Part B coinsurance (20 %) among other costs.
Doesn’t Cover: Part D drugs, dental, vision, hearing aids, or fitness.
Popular Choice: Plan G—only thing you pay is the small Part B deductible ($257 in 2025)
Ideal For: Travelers, snowbirds, or anyone wanting the freedom to see any Medicare doctor without referrals.
Cost Snapshot
| Cost Item | 2025 Estimate |
|---|---|
| Plan G premium | ~$200/mo average (varies $117-$300) |
| Part B premium | $185/mo for most people |
| Part D premium | $10-$40/mo typical |
Budget Tip: Add up premiums + Part D vs. the maximum you might spend in Medicare Advantage. Peace-of-mind may be worth the higher upfront cost.
What Is Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage (MA) plans bundle Part A, Part B, and usually Part D into one private plan—often with dental, vision, and hearing benefits tossed in.
Premiums: Many $0 plans, but you still pay your Part B premium ($185) to Medicare.
Out-of-Pocket Cap: Once your medical costs hit $9,350 in-network, the plan pays 100 % for the rest of the year (many plans set lower caps)
Networks: HMOs require referrals; PPOs offer some out-of-network flexibility at higher cost.
Ideal For: Budget-minded folks who stay local, like extra perks, and don’t mind following a provider network.
Example 2025 Costs
| Cost Type | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Monthly MA premium | $0–$40 (county-specific) |
| Primary-care copay | $0–$20 |
| Specialist copay | $20–$55 |
| Part D drug cost | Copays/tier pricing until you hit the new $2,000 cap |
Which One Might Suit You?
Choose Medigap if you:
Travel or live in more than one state.
See specialists often and dislike referrals.
Prefer predictable medical costs—even if premiums are higher.
Choose Medicare Advantage if you:
Want extras like dental or gym benefits bundled.
Live on a tighter monthly budget and stay in-network locally.
Don’t mind plan rules and annual changes.
Decision Checklist
☑ Doctor Access: Are your favorite doctors in a Medicare Advantage network?
☑ Medications: How do your prescriptions price out in each option?
☑ Health Needs: Frequent care argues for Medigap; light users often like MA savings.
☑ Lifestyle: Snowbird? Traveler? Medigap shines. Home-body? MA perks may appeal.
☑ Budget Comfort Zone: Can you handle higher monthly Medigap premiums, or do you prefer capped risk with a lower upfront cost?
Still unsure? Schedule a free, no-pressure phone consult—we’ll run the numbers for your exact prescriptions and ZIP code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch later?
Yes. You can change MA plans—or return to Original + Medigap—each Annual Enrollment (Oct 15–Dec 7). After six months on Part B, Medigap insurers can use health underwriting in most states, so switching back later isn’t always guaranteed. Ask us first!
Will Medigap go away?
No. Medigap is standardized by federal law and remains a stable option year to year.
Do MA plans really offer $0 premiums?
Yes—but you still pay the Part B premium, copays, and possibly higher costs if you go out of network.
What if I qualify for VA or TRICARE?
You can still enroll in either option. We’ll help you coordinate benefits to avoid overlap.
Ready to Compare Your Numbers?
📞 Call (866) 775-5409—talk to a licensed agent.
💌 Download our free guide “Medicare Made Easy”—step-by-step enrollment timelines.
Peace of mind starts with receiving the right information. Let’s make Medicare simple—together.
Helpful Links
- Medicare 101: Coverage Explained
Medicare Plan G vs Plan N Comparison
Disclaimer: Rates and limits quoted are based on CMS 2025 figures and may change. Always verify final costs with the plan carrier or Medicare.gov.