Are You Overpaying for Your Medicare Supplement Plan?

Some expenses feel justifiable — a good pair of shoes, a reliable car, a cup of coffee that
doesn’t taste like regret. But what about the things we pay for month after month, year after
year… without giving them much thought?

If you’ve been on a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan for a while, it may be time to quietly
— and calmly — re-evaluate what you’re getting for what you’re paying.

Let’s walk through it together.

The Rising Cost of Peace of Mind

Medicare Supplement plans offer a certain kind of simplicity. No networks. No referrals. You can
go to just about any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare.

It’s dependable coverage — and for many, that peace of mind is priceless.
But in 2026, many Supplement plans are facing double-digit premium increases. That means if you’re already paying $200–$300 per month, those costs could climb higher — even if nothing about your health or routine has changed.
You may not notice it all at once. But over time, it adds up.

What Are You Really Paying For?

Let’s say you’ve done everything right:
  • You chose a trusted insurer
  • You picked a plan with strong coverage
  • You even shopped around for the lowest premium when you first enrolled
And yet… you find yourself wondering if your current plan still fits your needs — or your budget.
It’s a fair question.
Life changes. Health needs shift. And while it’s comforting to know your coverage is there for you, it’s worth considering whether your plan still aligns with how you actually use it.
Sometimes the most thoughtful thing you can do is quietly ask:
“Is this still the right plan for me?”

Option 1: High Deductible Plan G (HDG)

If you like the open access and freedom of your Supplement plan, but would rather not pay a large premium month after month, High Deductible Plan G might be worth exploring.
Here’s how it works:
  • Much lower monthly premium (often around $50–$70)
  • You pay for Medicare-approved services until you meet the deductible (about $2,800
    in 2026)
  • After that, the plan covers just like traditional Plan G
For many, it’s a practical option. You still keep access to any Medicare provider, but you lower your monthly cost — and only pay more if you actually use care.
It’s not about downgrading your protection — it’s about realigning your plan with how you live.

Option 2: Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Another option to consider is Medicare Advantage. These plans are offered by private insurance companies and typically combine your medical and drug coverage into one plan.
Many come with:
  • $0 or low monthly premiums
  • Built-in Part D drug coverage
  • Extras like dental, vision, hearing, and gym memberships
Yes, they do operate differently:
  • Most are tied to a network (HMO or PPO).
  • You’ll have set copays for services.
  • You may need referrals for specialists.
But for those who value additional benefits and aren’t looking for frequent medical care, Advantage plans can offer great value with lower monthly costs.

Can You Change Plans?

Depending on where you live, the answer might be yes — and more easily than you think.
States with More Flexibility:
  • New York and Connecticut allow you to change Medigap plans at any time (no health questions).
  • California and Oregon offer a birthday rule — you can switch plans during a window around your birthday.
  • Missouri has an anniversary rule for plan changes.
In these states, you can adjust your plan as your needs evolve, without worrying about being turned down due to health conditions — giving you options today, and again in the future if things change.
Even in states without these rules, there are certain times you may qualify to switch (like moving or losing other coverage). It’s always worth checking.

A Gentle Nudge

This isn’t about urgency. It’s not a warning siren or a blinking red light.
It’s just a reminder that Medicare isn’t a “set it and forget it” decision — especially when premiums are climbing.
Sometimes, what made perfect sense at 65 might deserve a second look at 68 or 70. Not because you chose wrong — but because life, health, and finances naturally shift over time.
And if you’re noticing that your plan feels a bit heavier than it used to, it’s okay to ask whether it still fits as comfortably as it once did.

What You Can Do (Quietly and Thoughtfully)

  1. Take a look at your current premium
  2. Reflect on how often you’ve used your coverage recently
  3. See if there are other plans that might suit your needs today
  4. If you live in a flexible state, explore your options
  5. Talk with a trusted advisor — someone who knows the rules and can help you compare
    without pressure

Final Thoughts

You’ve worked hard to get to this stage in life. You deserve health coverage that feels like it’s working with you — not draining your wallet while sitting quietly in your drawer.
Whether you stick with your current plan, consider a high-deductible option, or explore Medicare Advantage, the goal isn’t to start over — it’s to fine-tune what you already have.
Sometimes, just asking the question is the first step toward a better fit.
I want a Supplement Plan but I can afford the monthly payment.
Consider a Medicare advantage Plan or a High deductible Supplement.
Y/N it depends upon the state you live in. Some states have guaranteed issue rule so Yes if you live in one, No if your state requires Medical Underwriting.
You can only do that during a Medicare Enrollment Period.

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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