Medicare Supplement Plan Premiums Are Skyrocketing- Here Is A Solution

If you’re one of the many Medicare beneficiaries who just opened a letter saying your Medicare Supplement Plan G premium is increasing again, you’re not alone.
Across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and beyond, traditional Plan G premiums are now surpassing $370/month for many people turning 70 or older. That’s over $4,400 a year—just for the premium.
For retirees on a fixed income, this kind of hike can feel like a punch in the gut. So what can you do? Let’s talk about an option that still provides strong Medicare coverage, but at a much lower cost: the High Deductible Plan G.

What Is the High Deductible Plan G?

High Deductible Plan G (HDG) is exactly what it sounds like. It’s the same Medicare Supplement Plan G you’re used to—but you agree to pay a deductible first ($2,870 in 2026) before the plan pays the rest of your 20% out-of-pocket Medicare costs.
But here’s what’s important:
  ✅ You still get to see any doctor who accepts Medicare
  ✅ You don’t need referrals
  ✅ Your maximum financial exposure stays limited, unlike many
Medicare Advantage plans
  ✅ It still helps protect you from catastrophic medical bills
Most importantly…
💰 Your premium drops drastically. In 2026, many people in the New York tri-state area are paying around $93/month for HDG. That’s $279/month less than Traditional Plan G.

How the Numbers Work: 2026 Side-by-Side Comparison

Here’s a clear breakdown comparing costs under both plans, depending on how often you visit doctors or use services. This chart makes it easier to visualize the actual financial trade-offs:
Download PDF version with contact details »
📊 Plan G vs High Deductible G – 2026 Cost Breakdown (Scroll below the chart for more explanation)

✅ Is High Deductible G Right for You?

High Deductible G might be a great fit if:
  ● Your current Plan G premium just crossed $350–$400/month
  ● You’re in generally good health and don’t use the doctor often
  ● You’re looking to limit your total financial exposure while still
having broad provider access
● You want to avoid HMOs, referrals, or provider networks

But here’s the honest truth:
If you’re happy with your current plan, and it fits your budget, there’s no reason to switch. However, if you’re facing premium shock or reassessing your options, this is a smart time to compare.

📞 Need Help Figuring Out Your Best Option?

Medicare can feel overwhelming—and no one wants to make a mistake. That’s why I created this comparison and continue to help people just like you make confident choices.
📍 Based in Melville, NY, I work with clients all over Long Island,
NYC, New Jersey, and Connecticut, and I’m happy to help you
review your situation.
🗓️ Let’s schedule a quick chat—no pressure, no sales pitch. Just
clear answers.
👇 Download the 2026 Comparison Chart
📎 Plan G vs High Deductible G (PDF)

🧠 Final Thoughts

Medicare Supplement premiums are rising—and it’s no longer just a small bump. Many retirees are now paying more for peace of mind than they ever expected.
High Deductible G might be the safety net you need—without the
steep monthly cost.
Want help navigating your options?
Let’s talk. I’m here to guide you.

🧠 Medicare Supplement Plan G vs. High Deductible G – Q&A

Is High Deductible Plan G the same coverage as regular Plan G?

Yes, mostly. Both plans cover the same benefits after you meet your deductible. With High Deductible G, you must pay $2,870 out of pocket in 2026 before the plan starts paying your share. After that, it works just like regular Plan G—no networks, no referrals, and coverage nationwide with any doctor who accepts Medicare.

Premiums increase due to age, inflation, medical cost trends, and claims experience. Many carriers have filed double-digit rate hikes in 2025 and 2026, especially for Plans G and N. It’s putting pressure on fixed-income seniors who chose these plans years ago when premiums were lower.

It depends on your state and your health. In most states, including New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, you may need to answer medical underwriting questions unless you’re within a guaranteed issue window. But there are exceptions and special enrollment rights.
Always consult a licensed agent (like Mike!) to review your options.

Yes. That’s one of the big advantages of High Deductible G. Even though you pay more out of pocket upfront, your costs are capped at $2,870 annually (plus your premiums). After that, the plan pays 100%. You’re still protected against large unexpected medical bills.

Then High Deductible G can be a great way to save money. If you’re  generally healthy and don’t expect major procedures, your monthly savings on premiums could far outweigh the small copays you’d pay for occasional visits.

Possibly. Every case is different. If you’re seeing premiums over $350–$400/month and you’re still in relatively good health, a switch could save you thousands per year. That’s why it helps to look at your past medical usage and talk through scenarios with an advisor.

The main risk is paying more out of pocket if you have a high-use year. But even then, your total exposure is capped. For many, it’s worth the tradeoff to save hundreds per month on premiums—especially if you’ve built up savings or have other forms of financial protection.

Choosing the Right Medicare Coverage

Selecting the best Medicare coverage depends on factors like your healthcare needs, budget, and preferred providers. You can choose between:
  • Original Medicare (Parts A & B): Allows you to see any doctor or
    hospital that accepts Medicare but does not include prescription drug
    coverage (Part D) or additional benefits.
  • Medicare Advantage (Part C): Offers bundled coverage with
    potential extra benefits but may require using a network of providers.
  • Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance): Helps cover
    out-of-pocket costs not covered by Original Medicare, such as
    copayments and deductibles.

Key Medicare Enrollment Periods

It is crucial to enroll in Medicare at the right time to avoid penalties and ensure continuous coverage:
  • Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): A seven-month window starting
    three months before your 65th birthday month.
  • General Enrollment Period (GEP): From January 1 to March 31
    each year for those who missed their IEP.
  • Annual Election Period (AEP): From October 15 to December 7,
    allowing you to switch or enroll in Medicare Advantage and Part D
    plans.
  • Open Enrollment Period(OEP): From January 1 to March 31 for
    those who missed AEP and want to make certain changes.
  • Special Enrollment Period(SEP): Can be used anytime during the
    calendar year for those that meet certain criteria such as moving to a
    new service area.

Finding Help with Medicare

Understanding Medicare can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. Licensed Insurance Brokers, Medicare.gov, and state health assistance programs can provide guidance tailored to your specific needs.
By taking the time to explore your Medicare options, you can make informed decisions that ensure you receive the healthcare coverage that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
Do I have to sign up for Medicare?
It depends upon your current coverage. If you are employed and your employer has over 20 employees then you can delay signing up for Medicare and avoid penalties.
No, You will have to enroll in a stand alone Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan(Part C) to get coverage.
There are no networks with Medicare and most doctors and hospitals accept it. However, Medicare does not cover 100% of services so a Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plans is advisable.

Mike Miligi- Owner

For over 10 years, Mike has been assisting Seniors and other Medicare-eligible individuals in understanding the ins and outs of Medicare and Medicare Health Insurance options, including Medicare Advantage Plans(Part C), Medicare Supplement Plans(Medigap), Prescription Drug Plans(PartD), and Dental and Vision programs.
Mike is Licensed in seven States and Certified with 11 Insurance Carriers. He has helped thousands of individuals decide on the best course of action for their particular Health Insurance needs. Because Mike is an Independent Medicare Health Insurance Broker, he works for the client, not the Insurance Carriers, and is able to provide his clients with accurate and unbiased Health Insurance options.
Mike recertifies with CMS(The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) annually, regularly completes Continuing Education Courses required by individual State Insurance Departments, and keeps abreast of industry trends and standards to offer his clients the most up-to-date information.
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