Medicare Supplement vs Medicare Advantage

At 65, you'll choose between staying on Original Medicare plus a supplement (Medigap) or switching to Medicare Advantage. Both are valid — the right choice depends on your situation.

Medicare Supplement (Medigap)

Medigap policies help pay out-of-pocket costs under Original Medicare. You pay a separate monthly premium for Medigap plus Part D for drugs. Medigap does not include dental, vision, or hearing.

Medicare Advantage (Part C)

Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a single plan that usually includes drug coverage and often adds dental, vision, hearing, and gym benefits. Many plans have $0 premium beyond Part B.

When Advantage makes sense

If you want extra benefits, predictable copays, and an out-of-pocket maximum — and your doctors are in-network — Medicare Advantage often offers more value for lower total cost.

When Medigap makes sense

If you travel frequently, see many specialists, or want freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor without network restrictions, Medigap may fit better — at a higher monthly cost.

Get a side-by-side comparison

A licensed agent compares Medigap + Part D vs Medicare Advantage options in your zip code — free, no obligation.