Medigap Mid-Year 2026 Review: Rate Increases, Plan Performance, and What to Change Before Fall Open Enrollment
Quick Answer
The mid-year mark of 2026 is the ideal time to review your Medigap plan’s performance, as most annual rate increases took effect in January through March and you still have months to prepare a switching strategy before Fall Open Enrollment begins October 15. Average Medigap rate increases in 2026 range from 4.5% to 7.2% depending on plan letter, with Plan G seeing the highest average increase at 6.8% due to its dominant enrollment share. By auditing your premiums, out-of-pocket costs, and coverage adequacy now, you can identify whether a plan switch — such as moving from standard Plan G to High-Deductible G or considering Plan N — could save you hundreds of dollars in 2027.
Key Takeaways
- Plan G rate increases averaged 6.8% in 2026, the highest among popular plan letters, driven by its status as the most widely sold Medigap plan since Plan F closed to new enrollees in 2020.
- High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) remains the best value play for healthy beneficiaries, with average monthly premiums of $38–$62 and a $2,800 annual deductible in 2026, yielding total potential costs significantly below standard Plan G premiums.
- Plan N continues to overperform on value, with 2026 rate increases averaging only 4.5% and copay structures ($20 office visit / $50 ER) that keep premiums 25–35% below comparable Plan G pricing.
- Mid-year is the optimal review window — you have enough claims data to assess value, and enough time to research alternatives before the Fall Open Enrollment period (October 15 – December 7, 2026).
- IRMAA surcharges in 2026 affect beneficiaries with modified adjusted gross income above $106,000 (individual) or $212,000 (married filing jointly), and your Medigap strategy should account for these Part B premium surcharges.
- Switching Medigap plans generally requires medical underwriting outside your open enrollment or guaranteed-issue window, so understanding your state’s specific rules — including birthday rules and anniversary rules — is critical before committing to a change.
Mid-Year 2026 Medigap Rate Increase Summary by Plan Letter
The first half of 2026 has confirmed what many industry analysts predicted: Medigap rate increases continue to outpace general inflation, though the pace has moderated slightly from the 2024–2025 cycle. Below is a breakdown of average rate increases by the most popular plan letters, based on data aggregated from the top 15 Medigap insurers representing over 70% of national enrollment.
Plan G: The Heavyweight Gets Heavier
Plan G remains the most popular Medigap plan available to new Medicare beneficiaries, and its 2026 rate increases reflect the growing pressure of an aging enrollment pool. Average rate increases for Plan G in 2026 came in at 6.8% nationally, with significant regional variation:
| Region | Average Rate Increase | Average Monthly Premium (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | 7.4% | $185–$245 |
| Southeast | 6.2% | $145–$195 |
| Midwest | 6.5% | $150–$210 |
| West | 7.1% | $170–$240 |
| National Average | 6.8% | $162–$222 |
The Northeast and West saw the steepest increases, driven by higher healthcare costs and more concentrated enrollment among older attained-age cohorts. For a beneficiary paying $180/month in 2025, a 6.8% increase translates to roughly $192/month — an additional $144 annually.
For a deeper dive into the rate trajectory, see our Medicare Supplement annual rate increase estimator to model your specific situation.
Plan N: The Value Leader Continues to Shine
Plan N has emerged as the standout value performer in 2026. With an average rate increase of only 4.5%, Plan N continues to attract cost-conscious beneficiaries who are willing to accept modest copays in exchange for significantly lower premiums.
Average monthly premiums for Plan N in 2026 range from $105 to $165 nationally, roughly 30–35% less than comparable Plan G premiums. The copay structure — $20 per doctor visit and $50 for emergency room visits (waived if admitted) — means most beneficiaries pay an additional $100–$300 per year in copays, but still come out well ahead compared to Plan G’s higher premiums.
Plan N’s lower rate increases are partly attributable to its copay structure, which discourages low-value utilization and keeps the claims ratio favorable for insurers. This structural advantage means Plan N is likely to continue outperforming on rate stability in future years.
Use our Medigap Plan G vs Plan N comparison to see a detailed side-by-side breakdown.
Plan F (Grandfathered): Legacy Costs Rising Faster
Plan F, closed to new Medicare enrollees since January 1, 2020, continues to see above-average rate increases as its risk pool ages and shrinks. The 2026 average rate increase for Plan F was 7.2%, with monthly premiums averaging $195–$265 nationally.
The trend is clear: as healthier beneficiaries age into Medicare and choose Plan G or Plan N, Plan F’s remaining pool skews older and higher-utilization, driving faster rate increases. Many financial advisors now recommend that Plan F holders — especially those in their early-to-mid 70s — seriously evaluate switching to Plan G, which offers nearly identical coverage at lower premiums, before the rate gap widens further.
For a detailed analysis of this transition, read our guide on whether to drop Plan F and switch to Plan G.
Plan K and Plan L: Partial Coverage Plans Gaining Traction
Plans K and L, which cover a percentage of Medicare-approved costs (50% and 75% respectively after the annual out-of-pocket cap), saw moderate rate increases in 2026:
- Plan K: Average rate increase of 5.1%, monthly premiums $68–$110
- Plan L: Average rate increase of 5.4%, monthly premiums $95–$145
These plans are gaining traction among beneficiaries who want some supplemental coverage without the full premium cost of comprehensive plans. Plan L’s 2026 out-of-pocket cap is set at $3,490, while Plan K’s cap is $6,980. For beneficiaries with relatively predictable healthcare costs, Plan L in particular offers an attractive middle ground — especially when paired with the savings from lower premiums.
See our detailed Plan L vs Plan K comparison for a full cost-benefit analysis.
High-Deductible Plan G: The Numbers Look Compelling
High-Deductible Plan G (HDG) deserves special attention in any mid-year review. In 2026, HDG premiums average just $38–$62 per month, with the annual deductible set at $2,800. Here’s how the math breaks down:
- HDG total annual cost at maximum: $456–$744 (premiums) + $2,800 (deductible) = $3,256–$3,544
- Standard Plan G annual cost: $1,944–$2,664 (premiums only, no deductible)
For a healthy beneficiary who incurs less than $2,800 in Medicare-approved costs per year — which describes roughly 40–45% of Medicare beneficiaries — HDG delivers savings of $1,200–$2,200 per year compared to standard Plan G. Even for moderate utilizers, HDG often comes out ahead.
For a full break-even analysis, see our guide to High-Deductible Plan G vs standard Plan G.
Which Plans Overperformed vs. Underperformed in Value (Mid-Year 2026)
Value in Medigap isn’t just about the lowest premium — it’s about the relationship between what you pay and what you get in return. Here’s our mid-year 2026 assessment:
Overperformers (Best Value)
- High-Deductible Plan G: Best total cost potential for healthy-to-moderate utilizers. Premium-to-coverage ratio is unmatched in 2026.
- Plan N: Lowest rate increases in 2026, copay structure keeps total cost well below Plan G for most beneficiaries. Ideal for those who visit the doctor fewer than 12 times per year.
- Plan L: Emerging sweet spot for budget-conscious beneficiaries who want predictable partial coverage with an out-of-pocket cap of $3,490.
Underperformers (Worst Value)
- Plan F (grandfathered): Premiums now run 15–20% higher than Plan G for virtually identical coverage. The rate increase trajectory suggests this gap will widen to 25–30% by 2028.
- Plan G (standard): While still excellent coverage, the 6.8% average rate increase in 2026 means the cost-to-value ratio is declining. Beneficiaries paying above the national average premium should strongly evaluate alternatives.
- Plan A: Minimal coverage (only basic benefits) at premiums that don’t justify the limited protection compared to Plan K or Plan L.
Middle of the Pack
Plan G remains the “gold standard” for comprehensive coverage and is still the right choice for beneficiaries who want zero-surprise out-of-pocket costs (after the Part B deductible). But its value proposition is eroding relative to alternatives, particularly HDG and Plan N, especially for beneficiaries in good health.
How to Audit Your Current Medigap Plan at Mid-Year
A mid-year audit takes 30–60 minutes and can save you hundreds — sometimes thousands — of dollars annually. Here’s a step-by-step process:
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Collect the following before you begin:
- Your most recent Medigap premium statement (showing the 2026 rate)
- Your 2025 Annual Notice of Change or rate increase letter
- Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) from January–May 2026
- Your current Medigap policy’s Summary of Benefits
- Any Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) from your insurer
Step 2: Calculate Your True Cost
Your “true cost” of Medigap coverage includes:
- Premiums paid: Monthly premium × months elapsed (and projected for full year)
- Out-of-pocket costs: Copays (Plan N), deductible (HDG), and any uncovered services
- Rate increase impact: Compare your 2025 premium to your 2026 premium to confirm the actual increase percentage
For example, if your Plan G premium rose from $170 to $182 in 2026:
- Rate increase: 7.1% ($12/month or $144/year)
- Your true annual cost: $182 × 12 = $2,184
Now compare that to what Plan N or HDG would cost you based on your utilization.
Step 3: Assess Your Healthcare Utilization
Review your January–May 2026 claims and project through year-end:
- How many doctor visits did you have? (Affects Plan N copay calculations)
- Did you visit the ER? (Affects Plan N $50 copay — waived if admitted)
- What were your total Medicare-approved charges? (Critical for HDG break-even)
- Did you use any services not covered by your current plan?
If you’ve had fewer than 6 doctor visits and no ER visits by mid-year, Plan N would likely have saved you money. If your total Medicare-approved charges are tracking below $2,800 for the year, HDG would have saved you significantly.
Use our Medicare Supplement plan cost estimator to model different scenarios.
Step 4: Compare Against Alternatives
Use the mid-year data you’ve gathered to compare your current plan against 2–3 alternatives. Focus on:
- Total projected annual cost (premiums + out-of-pocket)
- Coverage differences (what you gain or lose)
- Rate increase history (plans with consistently lower increases tend to be better long-term holds)
- Your state’s switching rules (see below)
Step 5: Check Your State’s Switching Rules
This is the critical gate. In most states, switching Medigap plans outside your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period (the six-month window starting when you’re 65 and enrolled in Part B) requires medical underwriting. However, several states offer additional protections:
- Birthday rule states (California, Oregon, and others): You can switch to a plan of equal or lesser benefit within a window around your birthday without underwriting. Check our Medicare Supplement birthday rule guide for state-specific details.
- Anniversary rule states: Some states allow switching during a window around your policy anniversary.
- Guaranteed-issue trigger events: Certain life events (losing employer coverage, your insurer leaving the market, etc.) create guaranteed-issue rights.
For a comprehensive overview of when you can switch without underwriting, see our Medicare Supplement switching rules checklist.
Switching Strategies for the Second Half of 2026
Strategy 1: Standard Plan G to High-Deductible Plan G
This is the most straightforward switch for healthy beneficiaries currently on standard Plan G. Since HDG offers the exact same coverage as standard Plan G after the deductible is met, the coverage difference is transparent and predictable.
The math (2026 example):
| Factor | Standard Plan G | High-Deductible Plan G |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | $185 | $50 |
| Annual Premium | $2,220 | $600 |
| Annual Deductible | $0 | $2,800 |
| Maximum Annual Cost | $2,220 | $3,400 |
| Savings if healthy (under $2,800 in claims) | — | $1,620/year |
Key consideration: This switch is not guaranteed-issue in most states. You’ll need to pass medical underwriting unless you’re in a state with birthday/anniversary rules or have another trigger event. However, HDG plans tend to have more lenient underwriting because insurers want to attract healthier enrollees.
Timeline: If you can switch by mid-2026, you’ll enjoy the premium savings immediately and have the rest of the year to assess whether the deductible is manageable. If you miss the underwriting window, prepare to switch during Fall Open Enrollment with a January 1, 2027 effective date.
Strategy 2: Plan G to Plan N
Switching from Plan G to Plan N is the second most popular value play. You accept copays ($20/office visit, $50/ER) and the possibility of balance billing from providers who don’t accept Medicare assignment (Plan N doesn’t cover Part B excess charges), but your premiums drop 25–35%.
The math (2026 example):
| Factor | Standard Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Premium | $185 | $125 |
| Annual Premium | $2,220 | $1,500 |
| Doctor Visit Copays (10 visits) | $0 | $200 |
| ER Copay (1 visit) | $0 | $50 |
| Total Annual Cost | $2,220 | $1,750 |
| Annual Savings | — | $470 |
Risk factor: Part B excess charges. In 2026, approximately 3–5% of non-participating providers charge up to 15% above the Medicare-approved amount. Plan N does not cover these excess charges, while Plan G does. If you live in a state that prohibits balance billing (such as New York, Connecticut, or Massachusetts), this risk is mitigated.
For a detailed copay analysis, see our Plan N copay break-even calculator.
Strategy 3: Plan F to Plan G (Grandfathered Beneficiaries)
For beneficiaries still holding Plan F, the mid-year 2026 numbers make a compelling case for switching to Plan G:
- Average Plan F premium (2026): $225/month ($2,700/year)
- Average Plan G premium (2026): $192/month ($2,304/year)
- Coverage difference: Plan G does not cover the Part B deductible ($257 in 2026). Plan F covers it.
- Net savings: $2,700 – $2,304 – $257 = $139/year
The savings start small but compound as Plan F’s rate increases continue to outpace Plan G’s. By 2028, the gap is projected to reach $400–$600 per year. The switch requires medical underwriting in most states, so timing it around a guaranteed-issue event is optimal.
Strategy 4: Downgrade to Plan K or Plan L
For beneficiaries looking to significantly reduce premiums, Plan K or Plan L offers a partial-coverage alternative:
- Plan K covers 50% of coinsurance and copays after the deductible, with a $6,980 out-of-pocket cap
- Plan L covers 75% of coinsurance and copays after the deductible, with a $3,490 out-of-pocket cap
Both plans cover the Part A deductible and coinsurance in full, which addresses the highest-cost risk (hospital stays). The trade-off is partial coverage for Part B services, but the out-of-pocket caps provide a ceiling on your risk.
This strategy works best for beneficiaries who:
- Are in generally good health
- Have predictable healthcare costs
- Want to reduce monthly expenses
- Can absorb the out-of-pocket costs up to the annual cap
Preparation Checklist for Fall Open Enrollment (October 15 – December 7, 2026)
Fall Open Enrollment (also called the Annual Election Period or AEP) is primarily for Medicare Advantage and Part D changes, but it’s also an excellent time to reassess your Medigap strategy. Here’s your preparation checklist:
By July 2026: Complete Your Mid-Year Audit
- Calculate your year-to-date total healthcare costs
- Project your full-year costs under your current Medigap plan
- Identify 2–3 alternative plans that could save you money
- Research your state’s Medigap switching rules
- Check whether you have any upcoming guaranteed-issue triggers (employer coverage ending, insurer market exit, etc.)
By August 2026: Research and Compare
- Get premium quotes for your top alternative plans from at least 3 insurers
- Use our rate increase estimator to project 2027 premiums for each option
- Review each insurer’s rate increase history over the past 3–5 years
- Check household discount eligibility — many insurers offer 5–14% discounts when both spouses enroll
- Confirm whether your preferred doctors accept Medicare assignment (relevant for Plan N excess charge considerations)
By September 2026: Make Your Decision
- Finalize your plan comparison spreadsheet
- Determine whether medical underwriting is required for your desired switch
- If underwriting is required, assess your likelihood of approval (chronic conditions, recent hospitalizations, BMI, etc.)
- If underwriting seems risky, explore state-specific switching protections
- Set reminders for October 15 (AEP start) and prepare your application materials
By October 15, 2026: Act
- Submit your Medigap application for the new plan (if switching)
- Apply for a new Part D plan if your drug coverage needs have changed
- Use the 30-day free look period to review your new policy carefully
- Do not cancel your current Medigap plan until the new one is confirmed active
Key Dates to Remember
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| October 15, 2026 | Fall Open Enrollment begins |
| December 7, 2026 | Fall Open Enrollment ends |
| January 1, 2027 | New coverage effective date for changes made during AEP |
Special Considerations for 2026
IRMAA Surcharges and Your Medigap Strategy
Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) surcharges directly affect your Part B premium and should factor into your Medigap planning. In 2026, IRMAA thresholds are:
| Modified AGI (Individual) | Modified AGI (Married Filing Jointly) | Part B Premium (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ $106,000 | ≤ $212,000 | $185.00 (standard) |
| $106,001–$133,000 | $212,001–$266,000 | $259.00 |
| $133,001–$167,000 | $266,001–$334,000 | $370.00 |
| $167,001– $200,000 | $334,001–$400,000 | $481.00 |
| $200,001–$500,000 | $400,001–$750,000 | $592.00 |
| > $500,000 | > $750,000 | $628.30 |
Medigap planning implication: If you’re paying IRMAA surcharges, your total Part B + Medigap cost is significantly higher. This makes lower-premium Medigap options (Plan N, HDG, Plan L) even more attractive, since the savings compound against the already elevated Part B cost.
For a full analysis, see our guide on IRMAA surcharge planning with Medigap.
Under-65 Beneficiaries: Unique Challenges
Beneficiaries under 65 who qualify for Medicare through disability face a different landscape:
- Limited plan availability: Not all insurers offer Medigap plans to under-65 beneficiaries, and those that do often charge significantly higher premiums (30–100% above the 65+ rate).
- State mandates vary: Some states require insurers to offer at least one Medigap plan to under-65 beneficiaries, but the specific plan and pricing rules vary widely.
- Automatic open enrollment at 65: When you turn 65, you get a fresh six-month Medigap open enrollment period, regardless of how long you’ve been on Medicare. This is the optimal time to switch to a lower-premium plan without underwriting.
For state-specific rules, see our guide on Medicare Supplement under-65 disability rules.
Late Enrollment Penalty Considerations
If you delayed Part B enrollment and are subject to the Part B late enrollment penalty (10% per full 12-month period you were eligible but didn’t enroll), your base Part B premium is permanently higher. This makes the argument for lower-premium Medigap plans even stronger.
Use our Medicare Supplement Part B penalty calculator to understand your total cost structure, and our late enrollment penalty calculator to see how the penalty accumulates.
Medigap Premium Trends: Looking Ahead to 2027
Based on mid-year 2026 data and historical trends, here’s what to expect for 2027 Medigap premiums:
Projected Rate Increases by Plan Letter (2027 Estimates)
| Plan Letter | 2026 Average Increase | 2027 Projected Increase | Key Driver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan G | 6.8% | 6.0–7.5% | Aging enrollment pool, medical cost inflation |
| Plan N | 4.5% | 4.0–5.5% | Copay structure mitigates claims pressure |
| Plan F | 7.2% | 7.0–8.5% | Shrinking, aging risk pool |
| Plan K | 5.1% | 4.5–6.0% | Growing enrollment improves risk distribution |
| Plan L | 5.4% | 5.0–6.5% | Similar dynamics to Plan K |
| HDG | 5.0% | 4.5–5.5% | Attracting healthier enrollees keeps rates stable |
Key Factors Driving 2027 Rates
- Medical cost inflation: Healthcare CPI continues to run above general CPI, driven by specialty drug costs and provider consolidation.
- Demographic pressure: The leading edge of Generation X is aging into Medicare, bringing larger enrollment cohorts and evolving utilization patterns.
- Regulatory environment: CMS has proposed modest changes to Medigap loss ratio requirements that could affect pricing models.
- Competitive dynamics: The growth of Medicare Advantage is creating selective pressure on Medigap insurers to maintain value propositions.
For a longer-range view, see our Medigap premium trends and 2026–2027 rate forecast.
Red Flags to Watch in Your Mid-Year Review
As you audit your Medigap plan, watch for these warning signs that immediate action may be warranted:
-
Your rate increase exceeded 10%: This is well above the national average and may indicate your insurer’s book of business is deteriorating or they’re pricing for retention risk.
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Your premium is above the 75th percentile for your area: Use our plan comparison tool by state to benchmark your premium against local averages.
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Your insurer has been acquired or is exiting the market: Insurer consolidation often leads to rate disruption. If your carrier was recently acquired, expect above-average increases in the next 1–2 cycles.
-
You’re approaching a state-specific switching window: Birthday rule states, anniversary rule states, and other state protections have strict deadlines. Don’t miss your window.
-
Your health status has improved significantly since enrollment: If you’ve lost weight, resolved a chronic condition, or otherwise improved your health profile, you may now qualify for preferred underwriting rates with a different insurer.
Building Your Medigap Switching Timeline
Here’s a practical timeline for acting on your mid-year review findings:
Scenario A: You’re in a State with a Birthday Rule
If you live in California, Oregon, or another birthday rule state:
- Note your birthday month
- Begin shopping 60 days before your birthday
- Submit your application within the state-mandated window (typically 30 days before to 60 days after your birthday)
- No medical underwriting required for plans of equal or lesser benefit
Scenario B: You Have a Guaranteed-Issue Trigger Event
If you’re losing employer coverage, your insurer is exiting, or you have another qualifying event:
- You have a 63-day window (in most cases) to apply for guaranteed-issue coverage
- You cannot be denied or charged more based on health status
- Act quickly — this window doesn’t reopen easily
Scenario C: You Need Medical Underwriting
If you need to switch and don’t have a guaranteed-issue or state protection:
- Get pre-screened informally by an agent to assess your likelihood of approval
- Apply to 2–3 insurers simultaneously (applications are typically valid for 30 days)
- Don’t cancel your current plan until the new one is confirmed active
- Use the 30-day free look period to make your final decision
For comprehensive switching guidance, review our Medicare Supplement enrollment mistakes to avoid.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much have Medigap Plan G premiums increased in 2026?
Medigap Plan G premiums increased by an average of 6.8% nationally in 2026, with monthly premiums ranging from $162 to $222 depending on your region. The Northeast and West saw the highest increases at 7.4% and 7.1% respectively. If your Plan G rate increase exceeded 10%, you may be paying above-market rates and should compare alternatives before Fall Open Enrollment.
Can I switch Medigap plans mid-year in 2026, or do I have to wait for Fall Open Enrollment?
Yes, you can switch Medigap plans at any time during the year — Medigap has no fixed enrollment season like Medicare Advantage. However, unless you’re in your Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period, a guaranteed-issue window, or a state with birthday/anniversary rules, you’ll need to pass medical underwriting to switch. The key advantage of preparing your switch mid-year is having time to shop, apply, and secure approval well before the Fall Open Enrollment period.
Is switching from Medigap Plan G to High-Deductible Plan G worth it in 2026?
For healthy beneficiaries with fewer than $2,800 in annual Medicare-approved costs, switching from standard Plan G to High-Deductible Plan G can save $1,200–$2,200 per year in 2026. HDG monthly premiums average just $38–$62 compared to $162–$222 for standard Plan G. The trade-off is the $2,800 annual deductible, but roughly 40–45% of Medicare beneficiaries incur less than that amount annually, making HDG the better financial choice for that group.
What is the best Medigap plan for value in mid-2026?
Based on mid-year 2026 data, Plan N offers the best value for beneficiaries who want comprehensive coverage at lower cost, with average rate increases of only 4.5% and premiums 25–35% below Plan G. High-Deductible Plan G is the best value for healthy beneficiaries willing to manage a deductible. Plan L is the best emerging value option for those wanting partial coverage with a capped out-of-pocket maximum of $3,490.
How do IRMAA surcharges affect my Medigap plan choice in 2026?
IRMAA surcharges increase your Part B premium above the standard $185/month, which makes your total healthcare costs higher and amplifies the value of lower-premium Medigap plans. For example, a beneficiary in the $133,001–$167,000 income bracket pays $370/month for Part B plus their Medigap premium. Choosing Plan N ($125/month average) instead of Plan G ($192/month) saves $804/year in Medigap premiums — on top of already elevated Part B costs.
What Medigap switching rules protect me without medical underwriting?
Several protections allow Medigap switching without medical underwriting: (1) your six-month Medicare Supplement Open Enrollment Period starting when you’re 65 and enrolled in Part B, (2) guaranteed-issue trigger events like losing employer coverage or your insurer exiting the market, (3) state birthday rules in states like California and Oregon, and (4) anniversary rules in select states. Check your state’s specific protections, as they vary significantly.
Why are Medigap Plan F rate increases higher than Plan G in 2026?
Plan F rate increases (averaging 7.2% in 2026) exceed Plan G increases because Plan F has been closed to new Medicare enrollees since January 1, 2020. With no influx of younger, healthier beneficiaries, Plan F’s risk pool is aging and shrinking, which drives higher claims per enrollee and steeper rate increases. This trend is expected to continue, with the premium gap between Plan F and Plan G projected to reach 25–30% by 2028.
Should I switch from Medigap Plan F to Plan G before Fall Open Enrollment 2026?
If you’re still on Plan F, switching to Plan G in 2026 is worth serious consideration. Plan G offers virtually identical coverage — the only difference is that Plan G doesn’t cover the $257 Part B deductible that Plan F covers. With Plan F premiums averaging $225/month versus $192/month for Plan G in 2026, the net savings after accounting for the Part B deductible is approximately $139/year, and the gap is projected to widen. However, the switch requires medical underwriting in most states, so assess your health status and state protections before applying.
Bottom Line
The mid-year 2026 Medigap landscape presents both challenges and opportunities. Rate increases are moderating but still outpacing inflation, Plan G remains the most popular — but not always the most cost-effective — choice, and alternatives like High-Deductible Plan G and Plan N continue to offer compelling value for the right beneficiary profile.
The single most important action you can take right now is to audit your current Medigap plan. Calculate your true cost, compare it against alternatives, and understand your switching options before Fall Open Enrollment arrives on October 15. The preparation you do in June and July could translate into hundreds of dollars in annual savings starting January 2027.
Use our tools to run the numbers, compare plans, and build your switching strategy — then act with confidence when the time is right. Your Medicare Supplement coverage should work for your budget, not against it.