The Best Medicare Supplement Companies of 2023

Medicare is an extremely valuable healthcare resource for many seniors. However, Medicare alone does not cover all of the healthcare costs one is likely to face later in life. And since unexpected medical expenses can lead to stress and financial strain, many seniors prefer to be prepared for what might lay ahead.

Medicare Supplement Insurance is one way seniors can plan ahead for these unexpected costs. Customers pay a monthly premium for insurance that lowers or totally covers the out of pocket costs for expenses. These expenses can include deductibles, copays, hospital stays, and doctor’s appointments. Some plans offer more extensive benefits for expenses such as international healthcare and skilled nursing facilities. There are many different plans available to accommodate people who desire different levels of coverage. And while having so many options makes it easy to get the right level of coverage, it can be overwhelming to sort through all of the companies that offer Medicare Supplement plans to find the right one for you.

To help make this decision easier, we’ve created a guide that profiles the best Medicare Supplement companies across the United States. You’ll find details about available plans, pricing models, customer service practices, and additional benefits. As you shop, this guide will help you understand which policies are best for you and help you narrow down your options. If you aren’t sure that Medicare Supplement Insurance is something you need, see our buyer’s guide at the bottom of the page for more insight.

Understanding the Basics of Medicare Supplement Insurance

Since it’s a type of insurance, descriptions of Medicare Supplement policies often contain terminology and stipulations that can be confusing to many shoppers. We’ve included this section to help you understand exactly what each plan and company is offering.

Eligibility
Medicare Supplement Insurance can only be purchased by people who are covered by Original Medicare: Parts A and B. Seniors with Part C, or Medicare Advantage, can not purchase Medicare Supplement Insurance.

Insurance is Private
While Medicare is a federal program, it’s important to realize that Medicare Supplement policies are provided to consumers by private insurance companies and not the government. However, both the federal and state governments regulate the plans that are offered. Each insurance company has the ability to decide which plans it wants to offer.

Standardized Plans
All of the plans available are standardized and will offer the same basic benefits, but some companies may offer extra benefits in addition to what is required. Currently, the available plans include A, B, D, G, K, L, M, and N. So while factors like the cost of a plan may vary, Plan A from one company must cover the exact same things as Plan A from any other company. Only Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin have standardized plans that are different from the rest of the country. 

Due to new regulations, Plans C and F are no longer offered. However, anyone who was approved for Medicare before January 2020 will be eligible for coverage under Plans C and F.

Medigap
As you shop for Medicare Supplement plans, you’ll likely see companies use the term “Medigap.” Medigap is simply another popular term for Medicare Supplement Insurance. Some websites may also use the abbreviation MSI.

Plan Types
Some plans are available in high-deductible, select, and innovative options. The government does not require companies to offer these options.

• High Deductible: High deductible plans offer lower monthly premiums, but a higher annual out-of-pocket spending cap.
• Select Plans: With Medicare plans, patients can usually choose to visit any doctor that accepts Medicare without a referral. But if a patient has a Select supplement plan, they’ll be required to choose from a smaller network of preapproved facilities and doctors. However, the premiums on Select plans are typically much lower.
• Innovative Plans: Innovative Plans typically have higher premiums than standard plans. But they include additional benefits such as dental coverage and vision coverage.

Prescription Medications
Medicare Supplement plans do not cover prescription medication. However, customers who want this coverage can add on Medicare Part D, which is offered by many companies that provide Medicare Supplement plans.

Pricing Structures
When shopping for Medicare Supplement Insurance, you’ll likely encounter three different pricing structures that affect how much your policy costs. The pricing structure that is used will be determined by the company issuing the policy as well as state laws. These pricing  structures are:

• Attained Age: Attained age pricing will be at its cheapest when you first enroll at age 65. However, the premiums for these policies will increase each year, making them more expensive as time goes on.
• Community Rated: Community-rated pricing means the premiums will be the same for all people living in a given area, regardless of their age. However, factors like gender and tobacco use can still be factored into the cost.
• Issue Age: The rates for these policies are determined by your age when you first purchase the policy, but they do not automatically increase every year.

How We Chose the Best Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies

The world of insurance is large and there are hundreds of companies across the country offering Medicare Supplement plans. So, to narrow it down and choose the best companies in the industry, we took the following factors into consideration:

Variety of Plans Offered
While there are countless companies offering Medicare Supplement Insurance, many only offer a couple of policies out of the 10 available. We focused our search on companies that are able to provide a majority of the available plans. These companies give potential customers the greatest amount of options to select a plan that fits their needs.

Number of States Served
There are many insurance companies around the country that only offer Medicare Supplement Insurance in a handful of states. While it’s difficult to find true nationwide coverage, the companies featured on our list are able to serve a majority of the country. However, not all plans will be offered in all places.

Company Integrity
When purchasing something as important as health insurance, it’s vital to select a provider you can trust. Because of this, we focused our search on companies that are widely regarded as trustworthy and have a long history of providing customers with insurance services. To determine this, we looked at factors like awards won, Better Business Bureau ratings, and customer reviews.

The 9 Best Medicare Supplement Insurance Companies of 2023

For an overview of our findings on the best Medicare Supplement Insurance companies of 2023, take a look at the information in the table below.

Humana

Best Additional Member Benefits

With over 13 million customers nationwide, Humana is one of the most respected insurance providers in the industry. The company was founded in 1961 and is now the third-largest health insurance provider in the United States. Humana has received numerous awards and has been recognized by The National Business Group on Health, the American Heart Association, and the Military Times for its high-quality products and customer service. Humana is accredited by the Better Business Bureau and has an A+ rating.

The company now offers a variety of health insurance products including Medicare Supplement plans and Medicare Part D coverage. Customers who purchase their Medicare Supplement Insurance through Humana will also get a variety of extra member perks at no additional charge. These benefits include:

• Access to a nurse by phone 24/7
• Access to Humana Transplant Center
• Discounts on eye exams, glasses, weight-loss programs, massage therapy, and over-the-counter medications

Coverage

Humana offers Medicare Supplement plans A, B, C, F, HD-F, G, HD-G, K, L, N and provides coverage nationwide, including plans for states with specialized requirements. Not all plans are available in all states, but the company has a simple online tool to help customers find out what’s available in their location. Seniors interested in buying a plan from Humana can do so directly online or call to speak with an agent. The company has created a website that is simple to navigate and understand, and no personal information is required to see quotes.

The online comparison tool makes it easy to compare pricing for Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans and Medicare Advantage. This can be useful if you’re trying to get a feel for pricing on a variety of options. Humana also offers Medicare Part D for those seeking prescription drug coverage.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

The pricing for Medicare Supplement Insurance plans varies from state to state with Humana, but the company generally uses attained-age pricing. Premiums will vary depending on your location, age, tobacco use, and gender. To get a quote, users only need to enter their gender, date of birth, and the desired start date of their coverage.

If you choose to buy Humana coverage directly from the website, you may be eligible for a small discount.

To give you an idea of what Humana’s monthly premium pricing looks like, we looked at what it would cost for a non-smoking female aging into Medicare and living in Los Angeles, California. While prices will vary depending on your location, this data can give you a better idea of what you’ll pay for coverage.

Sample Pricing

• A: $269.45
• B: $293.07
• C: $372.71
• K: $152.97
• L: $220.78
• N: $222.32

Coverage in Special States

Humana offers Medicare Supplement plans in states with their own plan systems. The following pricing samples are based on a female non-smoker shopping for coverage during open enrollment.

Boston, Massachusetts 

• Core Plan: $152.02
• Supplement Plan 1: $251.61

Minneapolis, Minnesota

• Basic Plan: $308.19
• Extended Basic: $461.79
• 50 Percent Coverage: $149.69
• 75 Percent Coverage: $235.52
• Copay Plan: $306.64

Madison, Wisconsin

• Basic: $188.08
• High Deductible Plan: $84.21
• 50 Percent Plan: $126.78
• 25 Percent Plan: $170.67

Aetna

Best Customer Service

Founded in 1853, Aetna serves nearly 40 million customers across the United States. It offers a diverse selection of health insurance plans and is particularly experienced in Medicare Solutions. Aetna has been working with the Medicare system for over 50 years and has been offering Medicare Supplement Insurance for over a decade.

In addition to having a wealth of experience, Aetna has also proven to be a company that puts its customers and community first. It has a track record of giving back to the communities it serves after natural disasters and regularly contributes to charitable causes. The company puts a great emphasis on providing outstanding customer service, simplifying the process of getting help when it’s needed, no matter how big or small the question.

Coverage

Aetna offers plans A, B, F, High Deductible F, G, and N. While coverage is available across 42 states, not all plans are available in all locations. Customers can use the online coverage tool to easily see which plans are available in their area. Although some customers may need to call a representative for specific plan information depending on where they live. The website is intuitive to use, and will simply tell you if coverage is not available in your area.

The company’s policies allow customers to see any medical professional who accepts Medicare. Policies are also guaranteed renewable, meaning that the company can not cancel coverage because of health conditions.

If you do choose to purchase coverage from Aetna, you’ll have access to a convenient customer online portal. On the website, you’ll be able to track your claims, view policy information, make payments, and request a replacement ID card.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

The majority of states utilize an attained-age pricing structure, but Medicare Supplement Insurance laws vary from state to state, others may use community-rated or issue-age-rated structures. Because of this, the prices for available plans will vary. Regardless of where you live, Aetna offers a 12-month rate lock, guaranteeing that premiums will not go up in the first year of coverage. You can get pricing estimates by providing state, ZIP code, date of birth, gender, and plan start date.

Aetna does offer a 12% household discount for customers who are living with at least one other senior with Aetna Medicare Supplement Insurance. The company also offers a 30-day “Free Look” period, which allows you to cancel for any reason within the first 30 days and receive a full refund.

The following pricing samples are based on a non-smoking female living in Sioux Falls, South Dakota who is aging into Medicare. While the price of Medicare Supplement Plans varies across the country, these pricing samples can give you a better idea of what you might expect to pay for coverage through Aetna.

Pricing Samples:

• A: $184.43
• B: $220.00
• F: $277.31
• High Deductible F: $66.22
• G: $138.11
• N: $125.03

Coverage in Special States

Aetna does not currently offer coverage in Massachusetts, Wisconsin, or Minnesota.

Cigna

Best Overall Value

Based in Bloomfield, Connecticut, Cigna currently serves over 95 million customers around the world. The company is an industry leader with a wealth of experience in the Medicare sector. Cigna offers competitive rates without sacrificing the quality of coverage.

Besides to offering Medicare Supplement Insurance, Cigna has a proven record of going above and beyond for its customers. The company is dedicated to helping people improve their health and overall well-being. So it includes access to a number of programs and benefits for all customers. The competitive premiums plus the additional benefits make Cigna an excellent overall value.

Coverage

Cigna offers plans A, F, High-Deductible F, G, and N. Coverage is available in all 50 states, but not all plans will be available in all locations because of state laws. The insurance may be provided by any one of a number of Cigna family companies, such as American Retirement Life Insurance, depending on the customer’s location. Customers are able to research and purchase Medicare Supplement Insurance directly on Cigna’s website, but can also reach an agent over the phone to discuss plans.

Cigna’s Medicare Supplement plans do not require customers to use an in-network doctor, so seniors are free to use any healthcare provider who accepts Medicare. The plans provide free access to the Cigna Healthy rewards program, which provides savings on certain wellness products, weight-loss programs, and massage therapy.

The company is also able to offer supplement insurance options that fall outside of the traditional and regulated Medicare Supplement plans. These options include coverage for cancer treatments, accident expenses, heart attacks, and strokes. Medicare Advantage plans and Medicare Part D are also available.

Cigna customers have access to United States-based customer service. Representatives are available Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time to answer questions and provide account assistance. Customers will also have access to an online portal that allows them to view their policy information, make payments, and track claims.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

Pricing on Medicare Supplement Insurance plans with Cigna will depend on state laws. But the premiums are generally competitive and among the most affordable options. Getting a quote with Cigna does require sharing some personal information. Potential customers will need to share their name, date of birth, phone number, email address, zip code, and Medicare Parts A and B effective dates to get their quote.

The company offers a 5% online discount and a 15% household premium discount when more than one person in a household is enrolled in one of its Medicare Supplement Insurance plans. 

To give you a better idea of what Medicare Supplement coverage costs with Cigna, we looked at quotes for a non-tobacco-using female who is aging into Medicare and living in Providence, Rhode Island. Keep in mind that these prices will vary depending on your location and personal information. 

Sample Pricing:

• A: $122.96
• F: $137.74
• G: $121.03
• N: $89.06

Coverage in Special States

Online quotes are not available for all states, including Massachusetts, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. If quotes are unavailable in your area, you’ll be asked to call 1-855-891-9368 to speak with an agent.

AARP by United Healthcare

Most Experience Working with Seniors

AARP is a special interest group that has served seniors since 1958. The company was founded with the goal of keeping aging Americans informed, empowered, and independent. Through various programs and services, it works to make the world more accessible and enjoyable for seniors across the country.

AARP is not an insurance company itself, but it does frequently team up with insurance providers to bring seniors affordable and accessible insurance solutions. To provide Medicare Supplement plans, it has teamed up with United Healthcare, an experienced nationwide health insurance company.

Coverage

AARP offers plans A, B, C, F, G, K, L, and N. Plans are available in all 50 states, but the plans that are available will vary by location. Customers only need to enter their zip code to see an estimate for a Medicare Supplement plan with AARP. The website will then display all of the plans available in your area. The premium estimates displayed assume that you are turning 65 and do not use tobacco products. So your actual premium may vary depending on your age and habits. Alternatively, customers can contact an agent to discuss their options over the phone.

Customers will also have the option to purchase Medicare Part D directly through United Healthcare when they sign up for a Medicare Supplement plan if they wish to have coverage for prescription medications.

To qualify for coverage, you must be an AARP member, which comes with an annual fee of $16. The company makes it easy for customers to join AARP at the same time they sign up for Medicare Supplement Insurance. Membership includes access to a lot of extra benefits such as discounted movie tickets, car rentals, hotels, and more.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

AARP generally uses community-rated pricing, which means that a 66-year-old woman in a given area would pay the same amount as a 76-year-old living in the same area. However, since most seniors will get a discount when they enroll at age 65 and the discount decreases every following year, the pricing model ends up being similar to age-attained.

The company offers an enrollment discount in most states of up to 30% for seniors aged 65. The enrollment discount amount decreases by 3% with each year that passes. It also offers a 5% household discount in most states when more than one person in the household is enrolled in one of the available Medicare Supplement Insurance plans through AARP.

The following pricing samples are based on information for a female non-smoker living in Denver, Colorado who is aging into Medicare. While this may not represent the pricing in your area, it can give you an idea of how much it costs to have Medicare Supplement Insurance coverage through AARP.

Sample Pricing:

• A: $82.78
• B: $111.71
• C: $155.03
• F: $155.46
• G: $114.56
• K: $37.75
• L: $73.52
• N: $98.89

Coverage in Special States

AARP offers plans for states with specialized supplement plans. These pricing samples are also for a female non-smoker in each respective city.

Boston, Massachusetts

• Core Plan: $115.17
• Supplement Plan 1: $161.76

Minneapolis, Minnesota

• Basic Plan: $191.32
• Extended Basic Plan: $256.40
• There are also a number of different riders available, ranging in price from $5 to $40 each

Madison, Wisconsin 

• Basic Plan: $120.04
• Basic Plan with Copayments: $81.55
• There are also a number of different riders available, ranging in price from $2 to $15 each.

Mutual of Omaha

Best for Medicare Experience

Mutual of Omaha has been offering Medicare Supplement Insurance since Medicare’s inception in 1966, making it one of the most experienced companies when it comes to navigating the Medicare system. The company has a great reputation for offering quality health insurance products across the country.

Owned by its policyholders, Mutual of Omaha also has a reputation for being a company that cares about its customers. The company values excellent service, stating that 98% of all Medicare claims are paid out within 12 hours. The genuine concern for the well-being of its customers combined with its long experience with Medicare makes Mutual of Omaha an excellent choice for Medicare Supplement Insurance.

Coverage

Mutual of Omaha offers plans A, F, G, HD-G, and N. Coverage is available nationwide, although not all plans will be available in all states. It also offers Medicare Part D, making it easy for customers to get coverage for prescription drugs as well. The company has several subsidiary companies, so depending on where a customer lives, policies might be issued by a company of a different name such as United of Omaha.

Getting a quote through the website requires customers to fill out a form with contact information and location. A licensed agent will then reach out to discuss the various options available. For this reason, it’s not a great choice for anyone looking to handle their insurance entirely online.

Policyholders have access to a customer account on the company website which makes it easy to track claims, find policy information, and make payments. The web portal is also host to a library of helpful information, allowing customers to easily find answers to frequently asked questions about coverage and healthcare.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

It’s difficult to obtain pricing quotes from Mutual of Omaha online. Since laws vary from place to place, the company prefers to have agents reach out to potential customers so they can get the information that’s relevant to them. That being said, Mutual of Omaha typically uses attained-age rated pricing where it’s allowed. With attained-age-rated pricing, premiums will increase as customers age, so it’s a good idea to compare quotes from various birth years in your area to see how they might increase as you get older.

Mutual of Omaha does offer a household discount of up to 12% for spouses who both have coverage through the company. You can also access the discount if you’ve been living with another individual over the age of 60 for at least one year and that person also has coverage through Mutual of Omaha.

Mutual of Omaha doesn’t offer simplified quotes on its website. To learn more about your options and get pricing information, you can fill out a contact form and have an agent contact you. Alternatively, you can reach out to the company directly by calling 800-205-8193.

State Farm

Best for Local and In-Person Service

While best known for its catchy car insurance advertisements, State Farm has a wealth of experience providing Medicare Supplement Insurance across the country.

Like most companies, State Farm does offer a tool to get quotes online. However, the company is unique in the way it uses a network of local agents to help customers select plans. There are State Farm offices located throughout the country. And customers are encouraged to use their local agent as a resource for knowledge and assistance. This makes State Farm an excellent choice for customers who prefer the personal touch of local relationships.

Coverage 

State Farm currently offers plans A, C, D, F, G, and N in 46 states, but not all plans will be available in all states. The company makes it easy to see which plans are available in every location with a simple online tool. Seniors who are interested in purchasing a plan through State Farm only need to fill out a simple form with some basic information to see which options are available to them. The website itself is easy to navigate, and State Farm does a great job of clarifying commonly asked questions throughout the process.

The company does not currently offer vision, dental, or prescription drug plans. So if customers want this type of coverage, they’ll have to find an alternate provider. However, State Farm does offer a variety of other insurance services, which can be helpful if customers are seeking a single provider for things like auto insurance and home insurance in addition to their Medicare Supplement Insurance.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

State Farm’s pricing models vary from place to place, but the company typically uses the attained-age pricing model where it can. This means that prices will increase as you age.

To get a quote, you’ll need to fill out a small form with your basic information. If you want to continue with the process after getting your initial quote, you’ll fill out a contact form and an agent from State Farm will get in touch with you to continue the process. Alternatively, you can find an agent in your area and go through the entire process with them, which is an excellent option for anyone who prefers in-person contacts.

If customers choose to purchase other types of insurance through State Farm, such as auto insurance or property insurance, they may be eligible for a bundle discount. The specific amount will vary depending on what policies are purchased, but it can lead to generous savings on monthly premiums.

To help you get a better picture of what coverage through State Farm costs, we looked at quotes for a non-smoking female living in Portland, Maine who is aging into Medicare.

Pricing Samples:

• A: $208.84
• D: $260.35
• G: $260.86
• N: $200.68

Coverage in Special States

Online quotes are not available for all states, including states with specialized plans. If online quotes are not available in your area, you can use a simple contact form to find an agent near you or contact the company directly at 844-242-1899.

Anthem Blue Cross

Best for Budget-Conscious Seniors

Founded in 1992, Anthem has become one of the largest insurance companies in the United States. With one in eight Americans currently holding a policy with Anthem, the company has a reputation for providing an outstanding selection of coverage options at competitive rates.

Anthem Blue Cross offers Medicare Supplement plans at rates that can be significantly lower than the competition. And since plans are closely regulated by state and federal government, customers still have the peace of mind knowing that they have the coverage they need. Combined with a selection of generous discounts, Anthem is an excellent choice for budget-conscious seniors.

Coverage

Anthem currently offers plans A, F, G, and N in 12 states across the country (CO, CT, GA, IN, KY, ME, MO, NV, NH, OH, VA and WI). While Anthem’s coverage is limited to 12 states, it is part of the wider Blue Cross Blue Shield network. This means that if Anthem doesn’t provide coverage in your state, you’ll be directed to a list of Blue Cross Blue Shield companies that do.

Anthem’s website is easy to navigate, and potential customers should find it simple to see exactly what’s available in their area and obtain a quote. It’s also easy to get in touch with an agent who can provide seniors with more detailed information or walk them through the entire sign-up process.

The company also offers Medicare Part D, making it a good choice for seniors who are looking for prescription drug coverage. Additionally, customers will find it easy to bundle their Medicare Supplement Insurance with the company’s vision and dental plans.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

Anthem generally uses the attained-age pricing structure. This means premiums will increase as the policyholder ages. However, factors such as gender, location, and tobacco use will affect pricing as well.

Anthem’s price comparison tool makes it easy to compare costs on Medicare Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage, and a prescription drug plan. The company also offers dental and vision coverage.

Anthem offers a 5% household discount in most states. So if more than one person in a household is enrolled in a Medicare Supplemental Insurance plan through Anthem, each enrolled individual gets the discount. The company also offers small discounts for enrolling in its monthly electronic payments or for paying for an entire year up-front.

While online quotes are not available in all states, we looked at pricing for a non-smoking female living in Hartford, Connecticut who is aging into Medicare. If online quotes are not available in your region, the website will direct you to contact an agent who can help you further.

Sample Pricing

• A: $1,009.94
• G: $213.75
• N: $171.44

Coverage in Special States

Out of the three states with specialized Medicare Supplement plans, Anthem Blue Cross only offers coverage in Wisconsin. For a non-smoking female in Madison, Wisconsin, the monthly premium is $80.61. The company also offers a variety of additional riders which range in price from $2 to $25 per month.

ManhattanLife

Most Experienced Insurance Company

ManhattanLife operates four life and health insurance companies that provide coverage to people in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Originally founded in 1850 as The Manhattan Life Insurance Company, it is one of the longest continuously operating companies in the United States and one of the most experienced insurance companies in the industry.

The company prides itself on being able to address the unique and diverse needs of its customers, no matter who they are or where they are located. Over a century of providing insurance solutions has given the company the first-hand experience needed to know exactly how to help its clients.

Coverage

ManhattanLife currently offers plans A, C, F, G, and N. Coverage is available throughout 35 states as well as Puerto Rico. The availability of each individual plan will vary from state to state. Because ManhattanLife is part of a group, other companies within the group may be able to provide coverage where ManhattanLife cannot.

While ManhattanLife does offer some optional coverage selections such as vision and dental, it does not offer Medicare Part D. So customers looking for prescription medication coverage will need to do so with a separate provider.

The company’s website is intuitive to navigate and easy to use. It is very transparent with visitors in describing what each plan contains and what is available in each location. So potential customers won’t need to waste their time trying to figure out if this is the best company for them.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

ManhattanLife does not offer quotes on its website, but it generally utilizes an attained-age pricing structure where available. In order to obtain pricing information, customers need to fill out a contact form. After the form is submitted, a licensed agent will reach out and collect relevant information. Potential customers should expect to provide information about their age, location, gender, and tobacco use. The agent can then go into the details of available plans and pricing structures. Alternatively, interested customers can call an agent directly at 800-877-7703 instead of filling out a contact form.

The company does offer a household discount running from 7% up to 12% for customers who live with another adult who is also enrolled in a Medicare Supplement Insurance plan from ManhattanLife.

Bankers Fidelity

Best for Additional Insurance Options

Bankers Fidelity has been providing seniors with innovative insurance solutions for over six decades. In addition to Medicare Supplement Insurance, the company also offers other supplemental health insurance products. These include:

• Short-term care insurance
• Life insurance
• Cancer insurance
• Disability insurance

This makes it an excellent option for customers seeking to purchase other health and life insurance products.

Over the course of the past 60 years, Bankers Fidelity has earned many awards for its service and has been recognized by organizations and individuals for its commitment to outstanding work. The company currently holds an “excellent” rating with A.M. Best Company and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Coverage

Bankers Fidelity offers plans A, B, F, G, K, L, M, and N. Plans are available in 35 states, but the availability of each plan will vary by location. Finding out if coverage is available in your state is simple – you only need to select your state from the drop-down menu and a list of available products will be displayed. If Medicare Supplement Insurance is available in your area, you’ll select that product from the list and fill out a contact form. An agent will then follow up with you to discuss plans.

The company has an easy-to-navigate website packed with information to help potential customers find exactly what they need. It breaks down exactly what each plan covers and offers an extensive knowledge center full of details.

Policyholders will have access to the customer web portal. This convenient portal makes it easy to find information about your coverage, pay your bill, and find assistance with common questions and concerns. The company also has customer service representatives available to answer questions over the phone during business hours Monday through Friday.

Pricing Structure and Available Discounts

Bankers Fidelity does not offer any pricing information through its website. To get a quote, interested customers will need to select their state and complete a contact form. From there, a licensed agent will reach out to collect more detailed information and provide a quote. Potential customers should be prepared to provide information about their age, the date they want coverage to begin, tobacco habits, and gender. As with all supplement plans, the pricing structures can vary from state to state. But Bankers Fidelity usually uses an attained-age pricing structure.

The company may offer a household discount depending on the customer’s location if more than one person in the home has Medicare Supplement Insurance through Bankers Fidelity.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Medicare Supplement Insurance

Finding the right Medicare Supplement Insurance provider can be an overwhelming task. There are many different companies offering a wide selection of supplement plans, along with other additional policies. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll walk through a few simple steps that can help you determine if you need Medicare Supplement Insurance and help you find the company that’s right for your needs.

Step 1: Determine your Eligibility and if Medicare Supplement Insurance is Right for You

In order to be eligible for a Medicare Supplement plan, you’ll need to have Original Medicare, which is Parts A and B. If you have Medicare Advantage, you cannot purchase these plans unless you are switching to Original Medicare.

A supplemental insurance plan may be right for you if you wish to add additional coverage that can protect you from unexpected medical expenses in the future. While this means you’ll need to budget for an additional monthly premium, it also means expenses like copayments and deductibles will be covered. Since medical expenses can put a significant strain on your budget, especially if they aren’t planned for, this coverage can provide peace of mind over all of the gaps in Medicare coverage.

Step 2: Understand Your Needs

Once you know that Medicare Supplement Insurance is for you, the next step is to understand your coverage needs. This will depend on several factors, including your current health and financial situation.

For people who are in relatively good health and don’t anticipate needing extensive medical care, plans A, K, and L might be all you need. Since these provide basic coverage, the premiums on these plans tend to be the lowest you can find. C, G, and F fall at the other end of the spectrum with full coverage and generally high premiums. The official U.S. Government website for Medicare provides a detailed chart that can help you understand exactly what each supplement plan covers.

If you are looking for lower premiums, you’ll also want to keep Select plans in mind. These plans offer lower monthly premiums, but you’ll only be able to choose providers from a small, preapproved list.

Step 3: Consider Additional Services and Benefits

If you’re shopping solely for a Medicare Supplement plan, additional services and member benefits may not impact your decisions. But it’s worth considering what other services you might need or could benefit from going forward.

You’ll find that many companies offer Medicare Part D, which is essential if you’re looking for prescription drug coverage. You may also wish to find a company that offers vision, dental, and hearing insurance options so you do not have to go through multiple companies.

Many companies also offer other insurance services such as life, property, home, and auto. If these are insurance services that you need, you might find it convenient to use the same company. You may also be able to get a bundle discount if you hold multiple policies with a single company.

Additionally, some companies offer customers member benefits. These benefits vary from company to company but can include:

• Discounts on glasses
• Wellness products
• Gym memberships
• Travel expenses.

Several companies also offer wellness coaching and access to a nurse for health advice.

Step 4: Compare Companies and Gather Quotes

Now that you know what you need, you can narrow your search down to companies that offer what you’re looking for. You should get quotes from at least 3 different companies before making a decision because prices can vary significantly. While many companies offer quotes online, calling an agent can clear up confusion and be a great way to test whether you like working with the people at the company.

While comparing quotes, you should also ask about available discounts. Many companies do not advertise discounts directly on their website but will grant them to customers who live in eligible locations when asked. Some common discounts include a household discount when more than one person gets coverage through the company, no tobacco use discounts, automatic payment discounts, annual payment discounts, and new enrollment discounts.

This is also a good time to evaluate the kind of service the company provides. Some companies provide access to local agents, while others are entirely online and over-the-phone operations. You should spend some time on the company’s website to see if you’re comfortable using it as well, since there’s a good chance you’ll be visiting it often to track claims and make payments.

Step 5: Sign Up for Your Chosen Plans During Open Enrollment

It’s important to sign up for your Medicare Supplement plans during your open enrollment period, which is the 6-month period following your 65th birthday. This not only helps to keep your costs as low as possible, but it protects you from being denied coverage for preexisting health conditions.

Understanding Medicare Plans

Each Medicare Supplement plan is standardized, meaning that it must conform with both federal and state laws. These laws are in place to protect customers, and each plan must offer the same basic benefits. You’ll find that some policies may offer additional benefits, allowing you to choose a plan that better meets your individual needs.

While each insurance company decides which supplement plans it wants to offer, state laws may affect what is offered in your area. Insurance companies do not need to offer every policy, but the federal government requires all companies offering Medicare Supplement plans to offer Plan A.

Nationwide “Letter” Plans

This chart from medicare.gov will give you a quick overview of exactly what each nationwide plan covers.

* Plans F and G also offer a high-deductible plan in some states. With this option, you must pay for Medicare-covered costs (coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles) up to the deductible amount of$2,490 in 2022 before your policy pays anything. (Plans C and F aren’t available to people who were newly eligible for Medicare on or after January 1, 2020.)

** For Plans K and L, after you meet your out-of-pocket yearly limit and your yearly Part B deductible, the Medigap plan pays 100% of covered services for the rest of the calendar year.

*** Plan N pays 100% of the Part B coinsurance, except for a copayment of up to $20 for some office visits and up to a $50 copayment for emergency room visits that don’t result in inpatient admission.

In the following section you’ll find a brief overview of each Medicare Supplement Plan. 

Plan A

Since the federal government requires all insurance companies to offer Plan A if they sell supplemental policies, it’s the most common and generally has the lowest premiums.

Plan A includes coverage for:

• Medicare Part A coinsurance & hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits stop
• Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment
• 3 pints of blood
• Part A hospice care coinsurance and copayments

Plan B

Plan B is nearly identical to Plan A, but it also includes coverage for Part A deductibles.

Plan C

Plan C includes coverage for a number of additional expenses, including:

• Part A coinsurance & hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits stop
• Part B coinsurance or copayment
• 3 pints of blood
• Part A hospice care coinsurance and copayments
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• Part A deductible
• Part B deductible
• 80% of foreign travel emergency expenses (up to plan limits)

As of January 1, 2020, Plan C is no longer available to anyone who is new to Medicare.

Plan D

Plan D is nearly identical to Plan C, but it does not cover Part B deductibles. Since Plan C was phased out in 2020, it’s an ideal alternative if you’re seeking that level of coverage.

Plan F

Plan F is considered a “full coverage” plan. It includes: 

• Part A coinsurance & hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits stop
• Part B coinsurance or copayment
• 3 pints of blood
• Part A hospice care coinsurance and copayments
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• Part A deductible
• Part B deductible
• Part B excess charges
• 80% of foreign travel emergency expenses (up to plan limits)

As of January 1, 2020, Plan F will no longer be available to anyone who is new to Medicare.

Plan G

Plan G is nearly identical to Plan F, but it does not cover Part B deductibles. Since Plan F was phased out in 2020, Plan G is an ideal alternative for anyone seeking a “full coverage” plan.

Plan K

Plan K is a low coverage with less expensive premiums. It fully covers Part A coinsurance & hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits stop, as well as 50% of the following costs:

• Part B coinsurance or copayments
• 3 pints of blood
• Part A hospice care coinsurance and copayments
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• Part A deductible

As of 2020, Plan K has an out-of-pocket spending limit of $5,880. Once you’ve reached this amount, your plan will cover 100% of your eligible expenses.

Plan L

Plan L is similar to Plan K, but it offers slightly more coverage. It fully covers Part A coinsurance and hospital costs up to 365 days after medicare benefits stop. It also covers 75% of the following costs:

• Part B coinsurance or copayments
• 3 pints of blood
• Part A hospice care coinsurance and copayments
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• Part A deductible

As of 2020, Plan L has an out-of-pocket spending limit of $2,940. Once you’ve reached this amount, your plan will cover 100% of your eligible expenses.

Plan M

Plan M is a medium-coverage plan that includes the following:

• Part A coinsurance & hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits stop
• Part B coinsurance or copayment
• 3 pints of blood
• Part A hospice care coinsurance and copayments
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• 50% coverage of Part A deductibles
• 80% of medical expenses incurred during foreign travel

Plan N

Plan N is similar to Plan M, with a few minor differences. In this plan, you’ll have coverage for:

• Part A coinsurance & hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits stop
• Part B coinsurance or copayment (you may be responsible for certain $20 – $50 copays)
• 3 pints of blood
• Part A hospice care coinsurance and copayments
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• Part A deductibles
• 80% of medical expenses incurred during foreign travel

Coverage in Special States

If you live in Massachusetts, Wisconsin, or Minnesota, you’ll find that Medicare Supplement Insurance is standardized in different ways. Each state has its own requirements that differ from the letter plans more commonly used across the country and uses its own list of Basic Benefits that each plan must cover.

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, Basic Benefits include:

• Medicare Part A coinsurance payments for inpatient hospital care up to an additional 365 days after Original Medicare benefits end
• Medicare Part B coinsurance and copayments
• The first 3 pints of blood each year for transfusions
• Part A hospice coinsurance and copayments

There are three supplement plans available in the state: the Core Plan, Supplement 1 Plan, and Supplement 1A Plan. It’s important to note that the Supplement 1 Plan is no longer available to people who are new to Medicare effective January 1, 2020.

For a quick side-by-side overview of the plans available in Massachusetts, refer to the table below.

Core Plan

The simplest plan available in Massachusetts is the Core Plan. This includes:

• Coverage for all Basic Benefits
• 60 days of inpatient care in mental health hospitals per year
• All state-mandated benefits (including annual Pap tests and mammograms)

Supplement 1 Plan

Those who were Medicare members before January 1, 2020 looking for additional coverage may opt for the Supplement 1 Plan, which includes:

• Coverage for all Basic Benefits
• Part A: inpatient hospital deductible
• Part A: skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• Part B deductibles
• Emergency medical costs incurred during foreign travel
• 120 days of inpatient care in mental health hospitals per calendar year
• All state-mandated benefits (including annual Pap tests and mammograms)

Supplement 1A Plan

For those interested in the Supplement 1 Plan who became Medicare members after January 1, 2021 can opt for the Supplement 1A Plan, which includes:

• Coverage for all Basic Benefits
• Part A: inpatient hospital deductible
• Part A: skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• Foreign travel emergency
• 120 days of inpatient care in mental health hospitals per calendar year
• All state-mandated benefits (including annual Pap tests and mammograms)

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, Basic Benefits include:

• Part A coinsurance for inpatient hospital care
• Part B coinsurance for medical expenses
• The first 3 pints of blood for transfusions each year
• Part A hospice coinsurance or copayments

Basic Plan

Wisconsin’s basic plan includes coverage for:

• Basic Benefits
• Skilled nursing facility coinsurance
• 175 days per lifetime of inpatient mental health coverage in addition to Medicare’s benefit
• 40 additional home health care visits
• All state-mandated benefits

Cost-Sharing Plans

If you would like more coverage than what’s included in the Basic Plan, you have the option to enroll in 25% and 50% cost-sharing plans. Similar to standardized Plans K and L, these cost-sharing plans cover 25% or 50% of certain eligible expenses. A high-deductible plan is also available.

Optional Riders

Some insurance providers in Wisconsin offer riders that allow you to customize your supplement plan. These riders include coverage for:

• Part A deductible
• 50% Part A deductible
• Part B deductible
• Part B excess charges
• Part B copayments or coinsurance
• Additional home health care (up to 365 days per year, including those covered by Original Medicare)
• Foreign travel emergency medical expenses

Note: As of January 1, 2020, Part B deductible coverage will no longer be available to new Medicare members.

Minnesota

In Minnesota, Basic Benefits include:

• Part A coinsurance for inpatient hospital care
• Part B coinsurance for medical expenses
• The first three pints of blood for transfusions each year
• Part A hospice and respite care cost sharing
• Parts A and B home health services and supplies cost sharing

There are two supplement plans available in Minnesota: the Basic Plan and the Extended Basic Plan. For a quick side-by-side overview of these plans, refer to the chart below.

*Plan will cover 100% of expenses after you’ve paid $1,000 out-of-pocket in a calendar year.

Basic Plan

Enrolling in the Basic Plan gets you coverage for:

• All basic benefits
• 100 days of care in a skilled nursing facility
• 80% of foreign travel emergency costs
• 50% of outpatient mental health care costs
• 20% of physical therapy costs
• All Medicare-covered preventive care services
• All state-mandated benefits (this includes diabetic equipment and supplies, routine cancer screening, reconstructive surgery, and immunizations)

Extended Basic Benefits

Those looking for more coverage might opt for the Extended Basic Benefits Plan. This plan includes coverage for:

• All basic benefits
• Inpatient hospital deductible under Part A
• Part B deductibles
• 120 days of care in a skilled nursing facility
• 80% of foreign travel emergency (100% after you spend $1,000 in out-of-pocket costs in a year)
• 50% of outpatient mental health care costs
• 80% of usual and customary fees (100% after you spend $1,000 in out-of-pocket costs in a year)
• All Medicare-covered preventive care services
• 20% of physical therapy costs
• 80% of health care coverage while in a foreign country (100% after you spend $1,000 in out-of-pocket costs in a year)
• All state-mandated benefits (this includes diabetic equipment and supplies, routine cancer screening, reconstructive surgery, and immunizations)

Additional Plans and Riders

There are also Minnesota versions of Plans high-deductible F, K, L, M, and N available.

Companies may also offer riders that can be added to the Basic Plan to further customize coverage. These riders include:

• Inpatient hospital deductibles under Part A
• Part B deductibles
• Usual and customary fees
• Non-Medicare preventative health care costs

Note: As of January 1, 2020, Part B deductible coverage will no longer be available to new Medicare members.

FAQ