If you’re enrolling in Medicare in 2025, you’ll likely face a critical decision: Should you choose Medigap or Medicare Advantage?
Both plans help cover healthcare costs, but they work very differently. Medigap supplements Original Medicare, helping cover out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles and coinsurance. Medicare Advantage (Part C) replaces Original Medicare, bundling additional benefits like dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
At Skyline Benefit, we specialize in helping Californians find the best Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans to fit their healthcare needs.
What Is Medigap in 2025?
Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance) is an add-on policy that helps cover the out-of-pocket costs of Original Medicare, including:
- Copayments
- Coinsurance
- Hospital deductibles
Medigap policies are sold by private insurance companies and are standardized into different plans (A-N), each offering varying levels of coverage.
Who Should Consider Medigap?
- Those who want low out-of-pocket costs
- People who travel frequently (coverage works nationwide)
- Anyone who wants freedom to see any doctor that accepts Medicare
Who Should NOT Choose Medigap?
- Those looking for dental, vision, or prescription drug coverage (Medigap does not include these benefits)
- People who want a low monthly premium (Medigap typically has higher monthly costs)
What Is Medicare Advantage in 2025?
Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare, provided by private insurance companies. It includes:
- Hospital (Part A) & Medical (Part B) coverage
- Prescription drug benefits (Part D) included in many plans
- Extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and wellness programs
Many Medicare Advantage plans have network restrictions, meaning you may need to see in-network doctors and get referrals for specialists.
Who Should Consider Medicare Advantage?
People looking for lower monthly premiums (some plans start at $0)
Those who want all-in-one coverage (medical, drug, and extra benefits)
Individuals who are comfortable with network restrictions
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage: Cost Comparison in 2025
How Much Does Medigap Cost?
- Monthly premium: $100–$250 (varies by plan and location)
- Out-of-pocket costs: Minimal, depending on the plan
How Much Does Medicare Advantage Cost?
- Monthly premium: $0–$240 (varies by plan and coverage)
- Out-of-pocket costs: Higher than Medigap (copays, coinsurance, deductibles)
Takeaway: Medigap has higher monthly premiums but lower out-of-pocket costs, while Medicare Advantage has lower premiums but higher cost-sharing when you use services.
Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage: Enrollment & Eligibility
When Can You Enroll in Medigap?
- You must have Medicare Part A & Part B
- The best time to enroll is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (6 months after you turn 65 and enroll in Part B)
- After this period, insurers can deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on health conditions
When Can You Enroll in Medicare Advantage?
- Initial Enrollment Period: 3 months before and after turning 65
- Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 – December 7
- Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment: January 1 – March 31 (switch or drop plans)
Takeaway: Medigap has limited enrollment protections, while Medicare Advantage offers annual opportunities to switch plans.
Need Help Choosing Between Medigap vs. Medicare Advantage?
Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare insurance broker specializing in affordable and flexible Medicare options. Selecting the right plan can feel overwhelming, but our mission is to simplify the process and support you every step of the way.
Schedule a consultation today. Call us at: (714) 888-5112