What Is Medigap Plan B? What You Need to Know

Medigap Plan B adds one additional benefit on top of the basic benefits provided by all Medigap plans: coverage for the Medicare Part A deductible.

There are 10 standardized Medigap plans available in most states (except Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin, which use different standards). The plans differ in terms of coverage for services, out-of-pocket limits and premium costs.

Here’s what Medigap Plan B covers, according to Medicare.gov:

• Part A coinsurance and hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are used up.

• Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment.

• Part B coinsurance or copayment.

• Blood transfusion (first three pints).

Here are the benefits Medigap Plan B doesn’t cover that are included in some other plans:

• Part B excess charges (when a provider charges you more than Medicare’s approved amount).

• Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance.

• Emergency care during travel outside the U.S.

Additionally, all Medigap plans, including Plan B, sold to new Medicare members don’t cover the following:

The government regulates Medigap plans, but you buy your plan from a private insurer who sets the price you pay. Prices vary as a result of factors such as age, location and tobacco use. In a representative California ZIP code (92589) in 2022, monthly Medigap Plan B premiums for a 65-year-old nonsmoker range from $136 to $230.

To find out what Medigap Plan B would cost you, visit Medicare.gov.

When you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B, you enter a one-time-only Medigap open enrollment period that lasts for six months. Medigap plans are easier and less expensive to buy during this period than at any other time.

During the Medigap open enrollment period, your health and medical history can’t be factored into insurers’ pricing or coverage decisions. After the period ends, insurers can charge more or deny coverage based on your health status or medical history.

If you have questions about Medicare, visit Medicare.gov or call 800-633-4227 (TTY: 877-486-2048).