Plan G vs Plan N: The Definitive Comparison
Plan G and Plan N are the two plans almost every new Medicare beneficiary ends up choosing between. They cover identical catastrophic exposure — after that, the difference is pure arithmetic between G’s zero-copay simplicity and N’s 15–30% cheaper premium with modest cost-sharing.
| Dimension | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part B deductible ($257 in 2025) | You pay it, then 100% covered | You pay it, then 100% covered |
| Doctor office copays | None | $20 per visit |
| Emergency room copay | None | $50 (waived if admitted) |
| Part B excess charges | Fully covered | You pay them (rare outside a few states) |
| Typical premium gap | Baseline | 15–30% cheaper than G |
| Rate stability | Slightly higher increases | Historically smaller increases |
The math that decides it
A Plan N holder who sees a primary doctor 4 times a year and never visits the ER pays roughly $80–100 in copays annually — far less than the $300–600 yearly premium gap against G in most ZIPs. N flips to the loser when excess charges apply: a provider billing 15% over Medicare-allowed on a $2,000 procedure leaves you a $300 bill that G would have absorbed. Check your doctors for excess-charge billing before choosing N.
Who each plan actually fits
Choose G if you want zero billing surprises, have a chronic condition driving frequent visits, or live where providers routinely take excess charges. Choose N if you are moderately healthy, your doctors accept Medicare assignment without excess charges, and you would rather bank the premium difference. Neither choice is locked in forever — but switching later requires underwriting in most states, so the premium math should include a realistic estimate of your year-five usage, not just year one.
FAQ
Can I switch from Plan N to Plan G later?
Yes, but in most states you must pass medical underwriting. Only California (birthday rule), New York and a few other guaranteed-issue states make the switch routine.
Why is Plan N cheaper if it covers almost the same?
The copays and excess-charge exposure measurably reduce claims paid to carriers, and they also deter members who use care heavily — so carriers price N more aggressively.
Does Plan N cover the Part B deductible?
No. Like every plan sold today except legacy F, you pay the $257 (2025) Part B deductible yourself.
Related reading: Plan G full file · Plan N full file · N vs G cost math · All Medigap plans