Attained Age Vs Issue Age Vs Community Rated
Three pricing models drive every Medigap quote: attained-age (cheap at 65, rises), issue-age (locked near your entry band), community-rated (same for everyone). Picking the wrong model can double your lifetime premium.
| Model | Rate At 65 | Rate At 80 | Where Found |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attained age | Lowest | Highest | Most national carriers |
| Issue age | Mid | Near entry level | Select carriers/states |
| Community rated | Highest | Same as at 65 | NY, some Blue blocks |
The crossover math
A community-rated plan at $200/month beats an attained-age plan entered at $130 if the latter reaches $260 by age 75 — which well-run attained-age books commonly do in 8–12 years. Our increase-history file gives the drift rates to plug into your own projection.
Finding your model
The application and state filing disclose the rating method; the carrier board notes each writer’s default model, and system states (WI/MN/MA) publish their own structures. Ask one question per quote: “Is this attained, issue-age, or community rated?”
FAQ
Which model is cheapest over 20 years?
Issue-age wins in most flat-projection scenarios; community-rated wins in high-increase states; attained-age wins only with tame increases.
Can a carrier change my pricing model later?
No — your policy’s rating method is locked at issue; only new applicants get different models.
Related reading: All rate files · Carrier board · G age curve