Free guide · Age 64-67
Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage: Which Is Right for You?
The decision you make at 65 sets your healthcare costs for years. Here is what most people are not told before they choose.
The core trade-off at a glance
Medicare Supplement (Medigap)
Higher monthly premium
Works with any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide
Predictable out-of-pocket costs
No network restrictions
Separate drug plan (Part D) required
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Often $0 premium
Network-restricted (HMO or PPO)
Variable out-of-pocket (max up to $8,850)
Often includes drug, dental, vision
Requires referrals for specialists (HMO)
Enter your info to unlock the full decision guide including the 3 questions that determine which path fits your situation.
The 3 questions that decide your path
1. Do you have existing doctors you want to keep?
If yes: Medicare Supplement is almost always the better fit. Medigap works with any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide. Many Medicare Advantage networks exclude major health systems or require referrals.
2. Are you in excellent health with low expected medical use?
If yes: Medicare Advantage may make financial sense. The $0 premium saves money in years when you use little care. But the annual out-of-pocket maximum ($8,850 in 2025) can be a shock if you need significant treatment.
3. Do you want predictable costs regardless of what happens?
If yes: Medicare Supplement Plan G or Plan N gives the most predictable out-of-pocket exposure. After the Part B deductible, most care is covered at 100%. For people managing chronic conditions, this predictability often outweighs the higher premium.
Key things most people are not told
Medigap rates vary by carrier for the same standardized plan. Plan G from one carrier may cost noticeably less than Plan G from another for identical coverage. We shop all carriers in your county.
Medicare Advantage plans change their networks and benefits annually. A plan that includes your doctor this year may not include them next year.
Switching from Medicare Advantage back to Medigap later may require medical underwriting in most states. In Texas, this means you can be denied or charged higher rates based on your health.
You have a 6-month guaranteed issue window starting the month you enroll in Medicare Part B. During this window, no carrier can deny you or charge higher rates for pre-existing conditions. After it closes, underwriting applies.
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