If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan G policy, you’ve probably noticed your premium jumped again this year. You’re not imagining it — Plan G rates rose sharply across the country in 2026, and New York was no exception. Here’s what’s really happening, why it’s happening, and what you can do about it right now.
Why Did My Plan G Premium Go Up So Much in 2026?
Medigap Plan G premiums increased between 12% and 26% nationally in early 2026 rate filings from the largest carriers, according to actuarial data reported by CBS News/KFF Health News. In New York specifically, UnitedHealthcare’s AARP-branded Plan G was approved for a 17.8% increase by the New York Department of Financial Services (DFS) — one of the largest single-year increases in recent memory for that carrier. You can see the full, official rate comparison in the NY DFS 2026 Medicare Supplement premium comparison.
The main drivers are rising medical costs, more seniors using healthcare services after years of delayed care, and an aging pool of policyholders that increases claims for every carrier.
What Is Medicare Plan G, and Why Is It So Popular?
Medigap Plan G is a supplemental insurance policy that works alongside Original Medicare. It’s popular because it covers nearly all the gaps Original Medicare leaves behind — including Part A hospital coinsurance, Part B coinsurance, and more — so you have very few surprise medical bills. The only cost you’re responsible for each year is the Part B deductible, which is $283 in 2026. After that’s met, Plan G pays what Medicare doesn’t.
With Plan G, you can see any doctor in the country who accepts Medicare — no networks, no referrals needed.
How Much Does Plan G Cost in New York in 2026?
New York is a community-rated state, which means your age doesn’t affect your premium — a 65-year-old and an 80-year-old with the same policy from the same insurer pay the same rate. According to the official NY DFS rate sheet, Plan G premiums across the state range widely by carrier and region, generally landing somewhere between the low $300s and $800+ per month depending on which insurance company you choose. That’s a big spread — which is exactly why shopping around matters so much in New York.
Is There Anything I Can Do About the Rate Hike?
Yes — and this is the good news. New York gives you more flexibility than almost any other state.
- You can switch Medigap carriers any time of year. New York offers year-round guaranteed issue rights for Medigap, meaning insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge you more based on your health, no matter when you apply.
- You can shop by company, not just by plan letter. Every insurer’s Plan G covers exactly the same benefits by law — the only difference is price. Since one carrier’s Plan G might cost hundreds less per month than another’s for identical coverage, comparing carriers is the single most effective way to lower your bill.
- Consider Plan N or a High-Deductible Plan G. These alternatives carry lower monthly premiums in exchange for small, predictable trade-offs like copays or a higher annual deductible.
How Does Plan G Compare to Medicare Advantage?
It’s worth understanding the trade-off. Medicare Advantage plans often have low or $0 monthly premiums, but you’re generally limited to a network of doctors and may need referrals for specialists. Plan G costs more each month, but it comes with predictable, low out-of-pocket costs and the freedom to see any provider nationwide who accepts Medicare. If your Plan G premium has become difficult to manage, it’s reasonable to ask a licensed advisor to walk through both paths side-by-side using your actual doctors, prescriptions, and travel habits — there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here.
What You Should Do Now
- Pull out your latest premium notice and check exactly how much your rate went up this year.
- Ask a licensed advisor to compare your current Plan G premium against other carriers offering the identical Plan G benefits in your ZIP code.
- If a big premium jump feels unmanageable, ask about Plan N or High-Deductible Plan G as lower-cost alternatives with the same underlying protection.
- Ask about Medicare Advantage as an alternative if a low monthly premium matters more to you than nationwide provider access.
- Don’t wait for your next renewal notice — because New York allows switching any time, you can act as soon as you’re ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will switching Medigap carriers change my coverage?
No. Every insurance company’s Plan G must cover the exact same benefits under federal Medigap standardization rules. Switching carriers only changes your premium and the company billing you — not what’s covered.
Do I need to answer health questions to switch in New York?
No. Because New York has year-round guaranteed issue for Medigap, you can switch plans without medical underwriting at any time — a major advantage most other states don’t offer.
What if I can’t afford any Plan G option?
Talk with a licensed advisor about Medicare Advantage plans, which often have $0 monthly premiums, or ask about Medicare Savings Programs that may help cover your Part B premium if your income qualifies.
Ready for a Free Medicare Consultation?
Speak with a licensed advisor at Affordable Care Agents — no cost, no pressure, no obligation.
Add Comment