ABA Family Legal Guide

The Rights of Older Americans

Health and Long-Term Care Benefits

Medigap Insurance

How do I find a good Medigap policy?

All Medigap insurance conforms to one of twelve standardized benefit plans identified as Plan A through Plan I. Plan A is a core package and is available in all states. The other plans have different combinations of benefits. Check with your state department of insurance for additional information. The federal and many state governments provide buyer's guides.

You should purchase only one Medigap policy. Federal law prohibits the sale of duplicative policies, and multiple policies almost always will provide overlapping coverage for which you will pay twice but receive the benefit of only once. In evaluating policies, decide which features would best meet your health needs and financial situation. New sales of these plans do not include prescription drug coverage, although persons who had Medigap plans before January 2007 may have drug coverage which may or may not be comparable to Medicare Part D drug plans.