Worst Medicare Supplement Companies 2025

Choosing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan isn’t just about the letter (Plan F, G, N, etc.) – it’s also about which insurance company you entrust with your coverage.

As a licensed Medicare agent, I’ve seen first-hand how some carriers consistently let clients down with sky-high premiums, poor service, and frequent complaints.

While Medicare requires all Medigap plans to provide the same basic benefits, the insurance company you choose can significantly affect your premiums, customer service experience, and long-term satisfaction.

What Defines “The Worst” Medigap Company?

A Medigap company earns a reputation as “the worst” when it consistently underperforms in key areas that matter most to consumers.

Poor customer service is a major red flag. It often involves long wait times, unhelpful representatives, and a lack of clear communication about benefits or billing.

Another major issue is frequent and unpredictable rate hikes, especially when companies lure customers in with low initial premiums that rise dramatically after the first year.

Financial instability can also be a serious concern. Companies with low credit ratings or a history of claim denials may put policyholders at risk, particularly those who rely on long-term coverage.

Negative consumer reviews and unresolved complaints are often a sign of systemic issues. These might include denied claims, poor dispute resolution, or misleading sales tactics.

Companies that use aggressive marketing techniques, like robocalls or deceptive mailers, also tend to earn a poor reputation.

In short, the worst Medigap companies are typically those that combine bad service, unpredictable pricing, limited offerings, and a questionable financial or ethical track record.

Let’s look at some of the companies we believe you should avoid at all costs.

#1. State Farm: Reliable for Auto Insurance, Not Medigap

State Farm is a well-known name for auto and home insurance, but in the Medigap realm, they haven’t been as impressive.

They make our “worst” list for a couple of reasons:

  • Higher premiums
  • Fewer perks
  • Short-term experience in the Medicare Supplement market

State Farm primarily sells Medigap through its captive agents and doesn’t always compete on price. Studies show that State Farm’s Medigap prices are typically about 15-20% higher than some of the cheapest options in many areas.

For example, if the cheapest Plan G in your area is $130, State Farm might be $155.

Some clients also report mediocre help when they have questions or issues with claims.

Based on my experience, State Farm does not advertise Medicare Supplement plans to the general public. Instead, they usually target their existing policyholders (those who already have auto or homeowners insurance) and approach them as they near age 65 to offer Medicare Supplement coverage.

This reminds me of how a credit union might offer accidental death insurance as a benefit of having an account, even though accidental death policies are quite limited.

State Farm does an excellent job in the auto and homeowners markets, but their Medicare Supplement offering feels like an afterthought. Their focus is clearly not on remaining competitive in the Medicare space like that of companies like Aetna, Cigna, or Mutual of Omaha.

State Farm tends to offer the basic Medigap plan lineup (A, F, G, N, etc.), but lacks common discounts that competitors offer. If you have a State Farm Medigap plan, check what else is out there – chances are you can save a chunk and still get a household discount with another insurer.

In a nutshell: State Farm is behind the curve on Medigap pricing and extras. Unless they dramatically undercut others in a rare scenario, you’re better off with a carrier that specializes more in Medicare.

#2. Globe Life / United American: Old-School Overpricing

Globe Life’s subsidiary, United American Insurance Company, is a long-time Medigap player known for unexpected premium increases and policyholders paying roughly 40% more than leading companies.

Globe Life has a poor customer satisfaction record, with a 2.3-star rating on the BBB and NAIC data showing 54% more complaints than average.

In Texas, Plan G has been quoted around $189/month, while other companies offer the same coverage for $127/month. Their Plan N has been as high as $216/month – over 130% more than competitors’ plans.

United American is notorious for high attained-age rate increases and overpriced plan options. They were slow to adopt discounts and offer little value compared to peers.

In a nutshell: Unless nostalgia trumps value, Globe Life/UA isn’t a smart pick. Identical plans are available for far less, with better service and complaint records.

#3. Bankers Life: Aggressive Sales and Overpriced Plans

Bankers Life is infamous for its door-to-door, high-pressure sales of Medigap plans. Clients are often sold expensive plans without being shown alternatives, and many pay 40–50% more than they should for identical coverage.

Bankers Life has a subpar reputation on the BBB and a higher-than-average complaint count with regulators. You can’t even get an online quote without speaking to an agent, a clear sign of a hard-sell approach. Captive agents make it difficult to service or switch policies later.

We’ve found that when people call our office and say they have Bankers Life, we immediately know they’re likely paying 30% to 50% more in premiums compared to better-known companies like Aflac or Mutual of Omaha.

In those situations, it’s almost always a smart move to shop and compare plans from other providers. These conversations often lead to significant savings for the client without compromising coverage.

In a nutshell: Avoid Bankers Life. Otherwise, you’ll be paying top dollar for mediocre service. Bankers Life prioritizes high premiums and captive customers over long-term satisfaction.

Worst Medigap Companies at a Glance

Medigap CompanyTypical Premium (Plan G @65)Common ComplaintsWhere They Operate
State Farm$170+ (vs. $125 with a low-cost provider)High premiums, few discounts, policy service issuesMany states (via State Farm agents)
Globe Life / United American$189+ (vs. $127 with a low-cost provider)Frequent rate hikes, poor support Nationwide (esp. TX, FL, OK)
Bankers Life$220+ (vs. $150 with other insurers)Overpriced, aggressive sales, hard to switchNationwide (local agent offices)

Our Advice to You

Shop around, compare rates and reviews, and consider working with an independent agent to avoid these common pitfalls. You deserve better than high premiums and low support.

Medigap plans are standardized, but service, rate history, and cost vary widely by company. All three companies listed here have earned a poor reputation for charging more and delivering less.

Best Medigap Company Options

If you’re looking for reliable Medigap companies with competitive pricing and solid customer service, here are four of the best options to consider.

#1. Cigna: Reliable and Well-established

We have many clients enrolled with Cigna, and right now, they are very competitive on both Plan G and Plan N. They offer good value and optional dental, vision, and hearing coverage for an additional premium.

Sample Plan G Premium: $204/month (age 65, non-smoker, FL)

Policy Perks:

  • Broad nationwide network and strong broker support
  • 7% household discount available in most states
  • Fast claims processing and minimal billing errors
  • Highly rated customer support with quick response times
  • Offers additional wellness programs in some states

Why Cigna stands out: Cigna is a favorite among agents and clients alike for its smooth enrollment process, strong service, and reliable rate trends. It’s also a solid pick for those with pre-existing conditions who may benefit from Cigna’s fair underwriting guidelines.

#2. Aflac: Competitive Premiums

We’ve been offering Aflac for a little over two years now and have a solid client base enrolled.

While Aflac is still relatively new to the Medigap market, its Plan G and Plan N premiums are very competitive. It also offers household discounts and optional dental, vision, and hearing benefits.

Sample Plan G Premium: $201/month (age 65, non-smoker, GA)

Policy Perks:

  • Competitive entry-level pricing for new enrollees
  • Fast and user-friendly application process
  • Partnership with large networks and pharmacies
  • Offers Plans A, F, G, High-Deductible G, and N in select markets
  • Brand familiarity and strong advertising presence

Why Aflac stands out: While newer to Medigap, Aflac has priced itself competitively and built on its name recognition. For cost-conscious buyers wanting a reputable national brand with low entry pricing, Aflac is a smart choice.

#3. Mutual of Omaha: Stable and Highly Rated

Mutual of Omaha has probably been in the Medicare Supplement space longer than any other company listed. They currently serve over 1 million Medigap members – more than any competitor.

While their Plan G and Plan N rates fall in the middle of the pack (not the cheapest, but not the most expensive either), they have consistently focused solely on Medicare Supplement insurance for more than 50 years. That longevity brings trust and stability.

Depending on your age, location, Medicare start date, and discount eligibility, they can still be an excellent choice.

Sample Plan G Premium: $162/month (age 65, non-smoker, IL)

Policy Perks:

  • Household discounts up to 12% depending on the state
  • Reputation for excellent customer service and claims reliability
  • Offers a robust agent network and educational resources
  • Strong long-term rate stability with minimal unexpected hikes
  • Plans available in all states (excluding MA, MN, WI standardized markets)

Why Mutual of Omaha stands out: As one of the longest-standing Medigap providers, Mutual of Omaha combines a trusted name with strong financials, fair pricing, and one of the best reputations for customer satisfaction.

#4. Aetna: Affordable and Reputable

We’ve worked with Aetna for many years and have hundreds of clients currently enrolled. Aetna has been a strong player in the Medicare Supplement market for a long time. That said, their premiums for new policyholders in the current year are not as competitive as in previous years.

Despite this, they remain a solid option thanks to their household discounts and additional perks like dental, vision, and hearing add-ons.

Sample Plan G Premium: $220/month (age 65, non-smoker, TX)

Policy Perks:

  • Household discount (7% in many states)
  • Strong financial backing as a CVS Health company
  • Competitive premiums across most states
  • Stable rate history and predictable increases
  • Offers Plans A, B, F, G, High-Deductible G, and N
  • Digital tools for policyholders and easy online claims tracking

Why Aetna stands out: Aetna is known for offering some of the lowest rates among national carriers without sacrificing service. Its underwriting is also among the most flexible, making it easier for clients with health conditions to qualify.

Summary

These carriers consistently offer better value, lower premiums, and better customer satisfaction than the worst offenders listed above.

Always check rates and discounts available in your state, and consider working with an independent Medicare agent to find the best fit for your needs.

Let’s switch gears from Medigap providers and talk more about Medigap plan options.

Top 3 Best Medicare Supplement Plans

As someone who has spent over 15 years helping people navigate the complex world of Medicare, I’ve seen it all when it comes to Medigap plans.

And let me tell you, if you’re looking for the best Medicare Supplement plan overall, Plan G is hands down the winner.

Next, I’ll explain why Plan G is the best Medigap option. I’ll also share my second favorite, Plan N, and my third, High-Deductible Plan G.

#1. Medigap Plan G: Most Comprehensive Coverage

What makes Plan G stand out is its unparalleled balance of coverage and simplicity. It covers nearly all of the gaps left by Original Medicare, including:

  • Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are used up)
  • Part B coinsurance or copayment
  • Blood (first three pints)
  • Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
  • Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
  • Part A deductible
  • Foreign travel emergency care (up to plan limits)

The only thing Plan G doesn’t cover is the annual Part B deductible. Once you’ve paid that deductible ($257 in 2025), Plan G takes over and ensures you don’t face unexpected medical bills.

Why Plan G Is Superior to Other Medigap Plans

When you compare Plan G to other Medigap options, its advantages become clear:

  • Plan A and Plan B: These plans only cover the basics, leaving out critical benefits like skilled nursing facility care and the Part A deductible. Plan G includes these and offers much more comprehensive protection.
  • Plan K and Plan L: These cost-sharing plans only cover a percentage of specific benefits, which can leave you with significant out-of-pocket expenses. Plan G eliminates that uncertainty by covering 100% of Medicare-approved costs after the Part B deductible.
  • Plan M and Plan N: While these plans may have slightly lower premiums, they come with trade-offs like partial coverage of the Part A deductible (Plan M) or copays for doctor visits and ER trips (Plan N). With Plan G, you’ll never have to worry about copays or partial coverage.

In the coming sections, we’ll discuss these plans more, and I’ll explain in detail why I don’t recommend most of them.

Compared to the once-popular Plan F, which is no longer available to new Medicare enrollees, Plan G holds its own. The only difference is the Part B deductible, and the savings on premiums with Plan G often outweigh that small out-of-pocket cost.

Plan G also provides freedom of choice, allowing you to visit any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare without network restrictions or the need for referrals.

Who Should Choose Plan G?

Plan G is ideal for anyone who values comprehensive coverage and predictable costs. It’s particularly well-suited for:

  • Those with frequent doctor visits or medical needs.
  • Individuals who want to minimize unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.
  • People who travel internationally and want coverage for emergencies abroad.

Over the years, I’ve seen just how much peace of mind Plan G gives my clients. It strikes the perfect balance between cost and coverage, offering solid protection against medical expenses without costing a fortune.

While other Medigap plans have their perks, none match the simplicity and security of Plan G.

Let’s move on to my second favorite Medigap plan – Plan N.

#2. Medigap Plan N: Second Best Coverage

Plan N is a great option if you’re looking for solid coverage and are willing to share a bit of the cost to keep your premiums lower.

Plan N usually has lower monthly premiums than Plan G. If you want to cut down on monthly costs but still get solid coverage, Plan N is a great choice.

Plan N covers:

  • Medicare Part A Coinsurance and Hospital Costs (up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are used)
  • Medicare Part B Coinsurance or Copayment (with small exceptions, explained below)
  • Blood (first 3 pints) each year
  • Part A Hospice Care Coinsurance or Copayment
  • Skilled Nursing Facility Care Coinsurance
  • Medicare Part A Deductible
  • Foreign Travel Emergency Care (up to plan limits, typically 80%)

Plan N doesn’t cover the Medicare Part B deductible, excess charges from doctors billing above Medicare rates, or certain copays (up to $20 for office visits and $50 for ER visits if not admitted).

While Plan G offers more comprehensive coverage (no copays and no excess charges), the difference in premiums may make the trade-off worth it.

Who Should Choose Plan N?

Plan N is ideal for:

  • Budget-conscious individuals who want to balance premiums with out-of-pocket costs.
  • Healthy beneficiaries who don’t expect frequent doctor visits or medical services.
  • Those willing to pay small copays for doctor and ER visits in exchange for lower premiums.

Plan N is a fantastic option for those who want solid coverage without breaking the bank.

While Plan G remains the gold standard for those seeking top-tier coverage, Plan N is a close second, offering an exceptional balance of cost and benefits.

If you can’t afford the premiums for Plan G or Plan N, there is a budget-friendly option available that we’ll review next: High-Deductible Medigap Plan G.

#3. High-Deductible Medigap Plan G: Best Low-Cost Option

Let’s talk about High-Deductible Plan G. This plan works just like traditional Plan G, but with one key difference: you must meet a higher annual deductible before the plan starts covering your costs.

In 2025, this deductible is $2,870. Once you meet it, the plan provides the same comprehensive coverage as standard Plan G.

This means you’re protected from the high costs of hospital stays, skilled nursing care, and other significant medical expenses. It’s a safety net that ensures you won’t face unlimited out-of-pocket costs.

The most obvious advantage of High-Deductible Plan G is the substantially lower monthly premiums. Compared to Plan G, the annual premium savings can range from $1,500 to $2,000, depending on your state and insurance provider. Even compared to Plan N, you could save $500 to $1,000 annually.

The higher deductible might not be as daunting for those with a health savings account (HSA) or other savings set aside for medical expenses. You can take advantage of the lower premiums and use your savings to cover out-of-pocket costs as needed.

High-Deductible Plan G isn’t for everyone. If you prefer the predictability of fixed costs, traditional Plan G or Plan N may better suit your needs. However, for individuals who are relatively healthy, budget-conscious, and looking for a safety net against major medical expenses, High-Deductible Plan G is an excellent alternative.

If you rarely visit the doctor or only need occasional medical services, High-Deductible Plan G can be a cost-effective way to maintain excellent coverage without paying for benefits you’re unlikely to use.

Top 5 Worst Medicare Supplement Plans

Now, let’s circle back to some plans I referenced earlier and go into more detail about why I think they’re the worst Medicare Supplement plans.

#1. Medigap Plan A: Not a Great Choice

When choosing a Medicare Supplement plan, many beneficiaries are overwhelmed by the options. While Plan A might seem appealing because it covers the basics, a closer look reveals that it may not be the most cost-effective or comprehensive choice for most people.

Here, we’ll break down why Medicare Supplement Plan A often falls short when compared to other plans.

What Does Plan A Cover?

Medicare Supplement Plan A provides basic benefits, including:

  • Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are exhausted)
  • Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment
  • The first three pints of blood needed for medical procedures
  • Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment

While these benefits are essential, they represent the bare minimum of coverage.

This plan lacks several important benefits that are especially valuable for seniors. It does not include coinsurance for skilled nursing facility care, which is critical for those who require rehabilitation or extended care following a hospital stay.

Additionally, Plan A does not cover the Medicare Part A deductible, leaving beneficiaries responsible for potentially large out-of-pocket costs, especially if hospitalized more than once a year.

Another drawback of Plan A is its lack of coverage for Part B excess charges. These charges occur when a healthcare provider bills more than Medicare’s approved amount, and while not common, they can lead to unexpected expenses.

Moreover, Plan A offers no benefits for foreign travel emergencies, limiting its usefulness for those who travel internationally. Plans such as G, F, or N are better suited for travelers, as they include coverage for medical emergencies abroad.

While Plan A might have lower premiums than more comprehensive plans, higher out-of-pocket expenses often offset the savings. For example, the lack of coverage for the Part A deductible alone can quickly negate any premium savings. Additionally, the absence of skilled nursing facility coinsurance and other critical benefits can result in significant financial strain.

Plan A might be suitable for individuals who:

  • Rarely visit the doctor or use medical services.
  • Have limited financial resources and prioritize lower premiums over comprehensive coverage.
  • Are willing to take on the risk of higher out-of-pocket expenses in exchange for a lower upfront cost.

While Medicare Supplement Plan A may seem straightforward and affordable, its limited coverage can expose beneficiaries to significant out-of-pocket costs.

#2. Medigap Plan B: Inadequate Coverage

While Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan B might seem straightforward, it is often an insufficient choice for many enrollees.

What Does Medigap Plan B Cover?

Medigap Plan B offers limited supplemental coverage to fill in some of the gaps left by Original Medicare, including:

  • Part A Coinsurance and Hospital Costs: (covers the coinsurance for hospital stays and up to 365 additional days after Medicare benefits are exhausted)
  • Part A Deductible
  • Part A Hospice Care Coinsurance or Copayments
  • Part B Coinsurance or Copayments

What Does Plan B Not Cover?

The glaring issue with Medigap Plan B lies in what it doesn’t cover:

  • Part B Deductible
  • Part B Excess Charges
  • Foreign Travel Emergency
  • Skilled Nursing Facility Coinsurance

Without coverage for the Part B deductible, Part B excess charges, skilled nursing coinsurance, or foreign travel emergencies, beneficiaries could face thousands of dollars in additional costs.

Plan B might save you a bit with lower premiums, but those potentially high out-of-pocket costs can quickly cancel out the savings.

Options like Plan G or Plan N offer more coverage, giving you peace of mind and financial stability when you need it most.

#3. Medigap Plan K: Only Covers 50%

When navigating the Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan maze, it’s easy to be drawn to options with lower premiums, such as Medigap Plan K.

However, what may appear as a budget-friendly choice can expose you to significant out-of-pocket costs. Unlike more comprehensive plans like Plan G or Plan N, Plan K only covers 50% of many essential benefits.

Here’s what Plan K covers:

  • 50% coverage for:
    • Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment
    • First three pints of blood
    • Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
    • Skilled nursing facility (SNF) coinsurance
    • Medicare Part A deductible
  • 100% coverage for:
    • Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are exhausted)
  • Annual out-of-pocket limit: $7,220 (as of 2025)

The primary issue with Plan K is its limited scope of coverage. Let’s break down these limitations a little bit more.

Part B Coinsurance: Under Plan K, you’ll pay half of the coinsurance for doctor visits, outpatient services, and other Part B-covered expenses. These costs can add up quickly if you frequently visit specialists or require outpatient treatment.

Skilled Nursing Facility Care: While Plan K covers 50% of the SNF coinsurance, you are still responsible for substantial costs if you require extended rehabilitation.

Medicare Part A Deductible: In 2025, the Part A deductible will be $1,676 or more per benefit period. Plan K only covers half, meaning you could owe around $838 per hospital stay.

High Out-of-Pocket Maximum: While the $7,220 annual limit might seem like a safeguard, reaching this cap requires significant out-of-pocket spending. For many beneficiaries, this threshold represents a financial burden rather than a safety net.

Comparing Plan K to Other Medigap Options

To highlight where Plan K falls short, let’s compare it to Medigap Plan G, a more comprehensive option:

FeaturePlan KPlan G
Part B Coinsurance50%100%
Part A Deductible50%100%
SNF Coinsurance50%100%
Annual Out-of-Pocket Limit$7,220No limit

While Plan G has higher premiums, it eliminates the unpredictable and often overwhelming out-of-pocket expenses that come with Plan K. For beneficiaries with moderate to high healthcare needs, the additional premium cost of Plan G is a wise investment.

Who Might Consider Plan K?

While Plan K may not be ideal for most people, it could be a reasonable choice for:

  • Healthy Individuals: The lower premiums might make sense if you rarely visit the doctor and have minimal healthcare needs.
  • Those with Limited Budgets: If you cannot afford the premiums of more comprehensive plans, Plan K might provide some protection.

Medicare Supplement Plan K’s limited coverage and high out-of-pocket maximum make it a poor choice for most Medicare beneficiaries.

While the lower premiums may seem appealing, the potential for significant out-of-pocket costs can lead to financial hardship, especially for those with chronic conditions or unexpected medical needs.

#4. Medigap Plan L: Only Covers 75%

While Medicare Supplement Plan L may appear attractive due to its lower premiums, it often leaves policyholders with significant gaps in coverage.

Medicare Supplement Plan L covers only 75% of Medicare-approved expenses after Original Medicare pays its share. This partial coverage includes key areas such as:

  • Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are exhausted)
  • Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
  • Skilled nursing facility (SNF) coinsurance
  • Part A deductible
  • Part B coinsurance or copayment

Plan L does not cover certain critical areas of healthcare, including:

  • Medicare Part B deductible: Beneficiaries must pay this deductible out of pocket.
  • Excess charges: Plan L will not cover the difference if a doctor charges more than the Medicare-approved amount.
  • Foreign travel emergency care: Plan L provides no coverage for medical emergencies if you travel internationally.

For most beneficiaries, the remaining 25% of costs can add up quickly, especially for hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, and frequent doctor visits.

Plan L does include an annual out-of-pocket limit, which may initially seem reassuring. For 2025, this limit is $3,610. Once you meet this limit, Plan L will cover 100% of covered expenses for the rest of the year. However, this out-of-pocket maximum is one of the highest among Medigap plans, and reaching it often involves significant personal expense.

By comparison, Plan K, another Medigap option with partial coverage, has an even higher out-of-pocket limit ($7,220 in 2025). Still, both plans often leave beneficiaries under-protected compared to other options.

These omissions can leave beneficiaries with steep medical bills, especially if they require specialized care or services outside the U.S.

While Plan L’s premiums are lower than those of more comprehensive Medigap plans (such as Plan G or Plan N), the cost savings are often outweighed by the higher out-of-pocket expenses. The financial burden can quickly become overwhelming for individuals who require frequent medical care or unexpected hospital stays.

Medicare Supplement Plan L may seem appealing due to its lower premiums. Still, its limited coverage, high out-of-pocket limits, and lack of protection for certain key services make it a poor choice for many beneficiaries.

Before signing up for Plan L, consider your healthcare needs and explore other Medigap options that might offer better financial protection and more peace of mind.

#5 Medigap Plan M: Too Risky

While many beneficiaries gravitate toward popular choices like Plan G or Plan N for their comprehensive benefits, some might consider lesser-known options like Plan M.

However, Medicare Supplement Plan M has significant drawbacks that can leave you with inadequate coverage and higher out-of-pocket expenses.

Here’s why Plan M may not be the right choice for your healthcare needs.

#1. Partial Coverage of Medicare Part A Deductible

One of the most glaring weaknesses of Plan M is that it only covers 50% of the Medicare Part A deductible. For 2025, this deductible is $1,676 per benefit period, meaning you’d be responsible for half of that amount—$838 per hospitalization.

In contrast, plans like Plan G or Plan F cover the Part A deductible in full, providing far greater peace of mind during hospital stays.

#2. No Coverage for Medicare Part B Deductible

Like most Medigap plans introduced after January 1, 2020, Plan M does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible. While this may not seem like a significant issue (the deductible is $257 for 2025), it’s worth noting that Plan M doesn’t cover any excess charges after meeting the deductible.

If your healthcare provider charges more than Medicare-approved rates, you’ll be responsible for the difference, which can be substantial depending on the services provided.

#3. Limited Coverage for Foreign Travel

Plan M provides only limited coverage for foreign travel emergencies, capping it at 80% of emergency care costs after a $250 deductible, up to a lifetime limit of $50,000.

While this is consistent with other Medigap plans, the financial exposure remains significant for frequent travelers or those who spend part of the year abroad.

#4. Limited Availability

Another challenge with Plan M is its limited availability. Few insurance companies offer it, which can result in less competitive pricing and fewer customer service resources.

Additionally, if you plan to switch plans during open enrollment, finding an insurer offering Plan M and accepting your application may prove difficult.

In a nutshell: Plan M has limited coverage for essential expenses, higher out-of-pocket costs, and potential for financial exposure, making it a poor choice for most beneficiaries.

For those who value comprehensive protection and peace of mind, options like Plan G or Plan N are far better suited to meet healthcare needs without leaving you vulnerable to unexpected expenses.

Final Thoughts

When picking a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it’s easy to focus just on the plan letter—like Plan G, N, or F—but the insurance company behind the coverage matters just as much.

While all Medigap plans offer the same standardized benefits, the quality of service, rate stability, and overall experience can differ a lot between providers.

For example, companies like State Farm, Globe Life/United American, and Bankers Life are known for high premiums, poor customer service, and pushy sales tactics, often leaving policyholders frustrated and paying more for the exact same benefits they could get elsewhere for less.

On the other hand, insurers like Cigna, Aflac, Mutual of Omaha, and Aetna are known for offering great value with competitive pricing, reliable claims support, helpful customer service, and discounts. These companies not only meet Medicare’s standards but also make the whole process smoother with added perks.

If you need help comparing Medigap plans and/or providers, feel free to give us a call. We’re here to help!

Sources: Cigna | Aetna | Mutual of Omaha | Aflac

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all Medigap companies the same?

No. While all Medigap plans of the same letter (like Plan G or Plan N) must offer the same standardized benefits, companies differ in pricing, customer service, financial stability, discounts, underwriting policies, and overall experience.

Can Medigap companies deny me coverage?

Yes, outside of your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, companies can use medical underwriting to accept or deny your application based on your health. However, if you apply during your open enrollment (the 6 months after you turn 65 and enroll in Part B), you’re guaranteed acceptance regardless of your health history.

Are rate increases the same for all companies?

No. Each company sets its own pricing and rate increase history. Some use attained-age pricing (which increases as you age), while others use issue-age or community-rated methods. Choosing a company with a strong history of stable rates is crucial for long-term affordability.

What role does financial strength play?

A company’s financial strength indicates its ability to pay claims reliably over time. You can check ratings from A.M. Best, Standard & Poor’s, or Moody’s to ensure the company is financially secure.

Can I switch Medigap companies later?

Yes, but it’s not always easy. Outside of certain guaranteed-issue periods, switching Medigap companies usually involves medical underwriting. You may be denied or charged more based on your health. That’s why choosing the right company from the start is important.

Mark Prip

For more than two decades, Mark Prip at My Medigap Plans has been an authority figure in the insurance industry and continues to uphold a mission to provide customers with comprehensive information about Medicare, life, and dental coverage. In addition, his expertise is unmatched - having helped thousands of Medicare beneficiaries choose suitable healthcare plans for themselves - making him stand out above competitors.