Worst Medicare Supplement Plans 2025

There are ten Medicare Supplement plans to choose from, but I will show you why only three are worth considering. I’ll start with the worst plans and then cover why Medigap Plan G is the most popular option.

Import tip: Medicare Supplement plans all follow the same structure: no network restrictions, fixed benefits that don’t change annually, and standardized coverage across insurers (e.g., Plan G offers identical benefits regardless of the carrier). This ensures your choice comes down to price, customer service, and extras.

5 Worst Medicare Supplement Plans

#1. Why Medigap Plan A May NOT Be the Best Choice for You

When choosing a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) 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.

The Major Gaps in Plan A Coverage

1. No Skilled Nursing Facility Coverage Plan A does not cover coinsurance for skilled nursing facility care, a critical benefit for many seniors who may require rehabilitation or extended care after a hospital stay. In contrast, plans like Plan G and Plan N include this coverage, providing significant financial relief.
2. No Coverage for the Part A Deductible The Medicare Part A deductible can be a substantial out-of-pocket expense, especially if you require multiple hospital stays in a year. Plan A offers no assistance here, whereas plans such as Plan F and Plan G cover this cost entirely.
3. No Coverage for Excess Charges Plan A does not cover Part B excess charges, which occur when a healthcare provider charges more than Medicare’s approved amount. While not all doctors impose excess charges, those who do can leave you with unexpected bills. Plan G and Plan F include this protection, eliminating the worry of excess charges.
4. Limited Appeal for Frequent Travelers Unlike other plans, Plan A does not cover foreign travel emergencies. If you plan to travel internationally, you’ll need to consider plans that include this benefit, such as Plan G, Plan F, or Plan N.

The Cost Factor

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.

Who Might Consider Plan A?

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.

However, for most beneficiaries, Plan A’s potential risks and costs outweigh its benefits.

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 May Leave You with Inadequate Coverage

While Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan B might seem straightforward, it is often an insufficient choice for many enrollees. Here’s why Medigap Plan B might not be the best fit for your healthcare needs.

What Does Medigap Plan B Cover?

Medigap Plan B offers limited supplemental coverage to fill in some of the gaps left by Original Medicare. Here is what Plan B covers:

1. Part A Coinsurance and Hospital Costs: Covers the coinsurance for hospital stays and up to 365 additional days after Medicare benefits are exhausted.
2. Part A Deductible: This covers the inpatient hospital deductible, a significant out-of-pocket cost for beneficiaries.
3. Part A Hospice Care Coinsurance or Copayments: Provides coverage for hospice-related costs.
4. Part B Coinsurance or Copayments: Covers your share of outpatient care and doctor visits under Part B.

What Does Plan B Not Cover?

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

1. Part B Deductible: Plan B does not cover the annual Part B deductible, leaving beneficiaries to pay this cost out of pocket.
2. Part B Excess Charges: If your healthcare provider doesn’t accept Medicare’s approved amount as full payment, you may face excess charges of up to 15% over the Medicare-approved amount. Plan B does not cover these charges.
3. Foreign Travel Emergency: Plan B does not provide coverage for emergency medical care abroad, which is a concern for retirees who travel frequently.
4. Skilled Nursing Facility Coinsurance: This is another significant gap, as extended stays in a skilled nursing facility can result in substantial out-of-pocket expenses.

Potential Out-of-Pocket Costs with Plan B

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. For example:

• You’ll be responsible for those expenses if you receive services from a provider who charges excess fees.
• A lengthy stay in a skilled nursing facility could cost you hundreds of dollars per day once Medicare’s coverage limit is reached.
• If you have a medical emergency while traveling outside the U.S., you will need to pay the full cost of care out of pocket.

Comparing Plan B to More Comprehensive Options

When compared to more comprehensive Medigap plans like Plan G or Plan N, Plan B’s limited coverage becomes even more apparent:

• Medigap Plan G: Covers all the benefits of Plan B plus Part B excess charges, skilled nursing facility coinsurance, and foreign travel emergencies. The only out-of-pocket cost is the Part B deductible.
• Medigap Plan N offers lower premiums than Plan G while still covering most critical gaps, such as skilled nursing facility coinsurance and foreign travel emergencies.

Why Choose a More Comprehensive Plan?

While Plan B might have slightly lower premiums than more comprehensive plans, the potential for high out-of-pocket costs often outweighs the savings. A more comprehensive plan like Plan G or Plan N can provide peace of mind and financial predictability, ensuring you’re adequately covered for various scenarios.

#3 Medigap Plan K Only Covers 50% of Several Essential Benefits

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. In this blog post, we’ll explore why Medicare Supplement Plan K might not be the best option for comprehensive coverage.

Understanding Medigap Plan K

Medicare Supplement Plan K is one of the ten standardized Medigap plans designed to fill gaps in Original Medicare. While it covers some essential benefits, it only offers partial coverage for many services, leaving you to share a significant portion of the costs. 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: $6,940 (as of 2025)

The Risks of Partial Coverage

The primary issue with Plan K is its limited scope of coverage. Unlike more comprehensive plans like Plan G or Plan N, Plan K only covers 50% of many essential benefits. For instance:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. High Out-of-Pocket Maximum: While the $6,940 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 illustrate the shortcomings of Plan K, let’s compare it to Medigap Plan G, a more comprehensive alternative:

Feature	Plan K	Plan G
Part B Coinsurance	50%	100%
Part A Deductible	50%	100%
SNF Coinsurance	50%	100%
Annual Out-of-Pocket Limit	$6,940	No 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: Limited Coverage for Key Expenses

While Medicare Supplement Plan L may appear attractive due to its lower premiums, it often leaves policyholders with significant gaps in coverage. Here are the main reasons Medicare Supplement Plan L might not be the best choice for your healthcare needs.

Limited Coverage for Key Expenses

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

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

Out-of-Pocket Limit Concerns

Plan L does include an annual out-of-pocket limit, which may initially seem reassuring. For 2025, this limit is $3,470. 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 ($6,940 in 2025). Still, both plans often leave beneficiaries under-protected compared to other options.

No Coverage for Key Services

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.

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

Poor Cost-to-Benefit Ratio

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 committing to Plan L, take the time to evaluate your healthcare needs and consider more comprehensive Medigap options that offer better financial protection and peace of mind.

#5 Medigap Plan M Will Disappoint

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. If you experience multiple hospital stays in a year, these costs can add up quickly, leaving you with a significant financial burden.

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. In comparison, comprehensive travel insurance may offer broader protection.

4. Higher Out-of-Pocket Costs

While Plan M generally has lower premiums than more comprehensive options like Plan G, the trade-off is higher out-of-pocket costs. These costs can be unpredictable, especially if you require frequent hospital visits, outpatient procedures, or specialized care. Many beneficiaries find that the cost savings on monthly premiums are quickly negated by the expenses incurred during medical treatment.

5. 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.

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.

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 all-around Medicare Supplement plan, Plan G is hands down the winner. Today, I want to explain why Plan G is the top choice among all Medigap options.

#1 Medigap Plan G: Most Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive Coverage Without the Guesswork

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, though, 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.

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.

Predictable Costs for Peace of Mind

One of Plan G’s most significant advantages is its predictability. After paying your Part B deductible, you can rest assured that all Medicare-approved services are fully covered. This makes budgeting for healthcare expenses much more manageable, especially as you age and your medical needs increase.

No Network Restrictions

Like all Medigap plans, Plan G allows you to see any doctor or specialist that accepts Medicare. You’re not tied to a network and don’t need referrals to see specialists. This level of flexibility is invaluable for those who want freedom in their healthcare choices.

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.

Why I Recommend Plan G

Over the years, I’ve seen how much peace of mind Plan G provides my clients. It’s the perfect balance of cost and coverage, offering robust protection against medical expenses without breaking the bank. While other Medigap plans have their merits, none provide the same security and simplicity as Plan G.

If you’re looking for a Medicare Supplement plan that checks all the boxes, Plan G is the clear choice. Let’s discuss your unique needs and ensure you’re set up with a plan that works best for you. Trust me, with Plan G, you’ll be in excellent hands.

#2 Medigap Plan N: Second Most Comprehensive Coverage

Regarding Medicare Supplement plans, Plan G often steals the spotlight. It’s no wonder—Plan G offers comprehensive coverage, making it a favorite for those looking to minimize out-of-pocket expenses. But today, I want to shine a light on a strong contender that deserves your attention: Medicare Supplement Plan N.

Let me break it down for you.

Why Plan N Stands Out

Plan N is designed for those who want excellent coverage but are willing to share a bit of the cost in exchange for lower premiums. It strikes a balance between affordability and comprehensive benefits, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious Medicare beneficiaries.

Here are the key reasons why Plan N ranks just behind Plan G:

1. Plan N typically has lower monthly premiums than Plan G. If you’re looking to save on fixed monthly costs while still having robust coverage, Plan N delivers. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer to pay more out of pocket when using healthcare services rather than committing to higher premiums year-round.
2. Shared Costs That Are Manageable With Plan N, you’ll pay a copay of up to $20 for most doctor visits and up to $50 for emergency room visits (if you’re not admitted). Additionally, you’re responsible for the Medicare Part B deductible (currently $257 in 2025) and any excess charges. However, excess charges are rare since most providers accept Medicare assignment.
3. No Excess Charges in Many States Some states, such as Connecticut, New York, and Pennsylvania, prohibit excess charges altogether. Plan N becomes even more appealing if you live in one of these states because it essentially functions like Plan G without the higher premium.
4. Comprehensive Coverage Like Plan G, Plan N covers Part A coinsurance and hospital costs, skilled nursing facility care coinsurance, and foreign travel emergency care. The difference lies in the small copays and potential excess charges under Part B, which are minimal compared to the savings on premiums.
5. Healthy Incentive for Lower Healthcare Usage If you’re relatively healthy and don’t anticipate frequent doctor or ER visits, Plan N can save you money over time. You’re not overpaying for benefits you might not use extensively.

Who Is Plan N Best For?

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.
• Residents in states that don’t allow excess charges, maximizing the plan’s value.
• Those willing to pay small copays for doctor and ER visits in exchange for lower premiums.

How Does Plan N Compare to Plan G?

While Plan G offers slightly more comprehensive coverage (no copays and no excess charges), the difference in premiums can be significant. Over a year, the savings on premiums with Plan N often outweigh the minor out-of-pocket expenses for copays and occasional services. For many, this trade-off is worth it.

My Thoughts

Choosing the right Medicare Supplement plan depends on your health needs, budget, and preferences. 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. It’s a fantastic option for those who want solid coverage without breaking the bank.

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

Over the years, I’ve had countless conversations with clients about Medicare supplement plans. Each plan has unique advantages, and the right choice depends largely on your health needs, financial situation, and long-term goals.

High Deductible Medigap Plan G. While it might not be the first choice for everyone, I firmly believe it’s the third-best option in the Medicare Supplement lineup, and here’s why.

Enter High Deductible Plan G

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.

Here’s why I consider High Deductible Plan G the third-best option:

1. Lower Premiums with Significant Annual Savings

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. These savings are particularly attractive for individuals who prioritize affordability while maintaining access to comprehensive coverage after the deductible is met.

2. Comprehensive Coverage After the Deductible

Once you meet the deductible, High Deductible Plan G functions like regular 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.

3. Ideal for Healthy Individuals

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. The premium savings can remain in your pocket or be set aside for other expenses.

4. Flexibility for Financial Planning

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.

Why It’s a Solid Third Choice

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. It provides the same robust coverage as Plan G but at a fraction of the premium cost—as long as you’re comfortable with the higher deductible.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the world of Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans can be overwhelming, but understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each plan is crucial for making the right choice. This article explored why some Medigap plans—like Plans A, B, K, L, and M—fall short due to limited coverage, higher out-of-pocket costs, and financial vulnerabilities.

These plans may seem appealing at first glance due to lower premiums, but their gaps in essential benefits often result in significant financial strain for most beneficiaries.

On the other hand, we highlighted the top three Medigap plans for 2025: Plan G, Plan N, and High Deductible Plan G. Plan G continues to be the gold standard, offering the most comprehensive coverage and predictability for healthcare expenses.

Plan N balances affordability and benefits, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious individuals. For those who are relatively healthy and willing to take on a higher deductible, High Deductible Plan G provides a low-cost option without sacrificing critical protections.

Assessing your healthcare needs, budget, and priorities is essential when choosing a Medigap plan. Comprehensive options like Plan G, Plan N, and High Deductible Plan G provide most beneficiaries with the best value and peace of mind, ensuring robust financial protection against unexpected medical costs.