Standard Medigap Plans F and G have similar basic benefits, with one central difference: F includes the Part B deductible and G does not. Whether you can buy F depends on when you first became eligible for Medicare. Neither policy replaces Original Medicare.
Compare like with like
| Feature | Standard F | Standard G |
|---|---|---|
| Part B deductible | Included. | Not included. |
| Part A deductible and eligible A/B coinsurance benefits | Included. | Included. |
| Part B excess charges | Included. | Included. |
| Foreign emergency benefit | Limited benefit. | Limited benefit. |
| First eligible for Medicare from January 1, 2020 | Cannot buy F. | May apply if eligible. |
The 2026 deductible in context
The Part B deductible is $283 in 2026. Compare the actual annual premium difference between F and G with that benefit difference. Do not assume either letter is always less expensive overall; premiums depend on the insurer, location and applicant.
F does not cover every possible health expense. Both policies generally exclude routine dental or vision care, hearing aids and long-term custodial care. New Medigap policies do not include a Part D benefit.
High-deductible versions are separate choices
Some states offer high-deductible F and G. Their eligible Medicare cost threshold is $2,950 in 2026 before the policy pays its benefits. Do not compare a standard F premium with a high-deductible G premium as though the coverage starts paying in the same way.
Before changing an existing policy
Being eligible for F historically does not guarantee every new application will be accepted. Outside protected buying rights, medical underwriting may apply. Annual Medicare Open Enrollment does not create a nationwide right to switch Medigap without health questions.
Ask about guaranteed-issue or state-specific protections, effective dates and replacement requirements. Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin use different standardization. Confirm the new policy before ending the old one, and compare the insurer’s written quote and benefit summary rather than an unsupported ranking.
Related coverage questions
- What Is Medigap? Benefits, Costs and Enrollment
- How to Compare Medigap Policies
- Medigap Comparison Chart: Benefits and 2026 Cost Limits