Medigap Insurance Plan C: Explore Coverage, Costs, and Benefits
Medigap insurance plan C, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, is a private health insurance option that helps pay for some of the healthcare costs not covered by Original Medicare (Part A and Part B). These include co-payments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Medigap plans are standardized and labeled A through N, with each letter offering a different set of benefits.
Medigap insurance plan C was created to ease the financial burden on seniors who face out-of-pocket expenses after Medicare pays its share. Because Original Medicare often leaves policyholders with gaps in coverage, Medigap serves as an essential supplement for those who want more predictable healthcare expenses.
Medigap insurance plan C is sold by private insurance companies and is regulated by both federal and state laws to protect consumers. To be eligible for a Medigap policy, you must already be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B.
What Is Medigap Plan C?
Medigap Plan C was once a popular Medicare Supplement plan designed to provide broad coverage by filling in many of the cost gaps left by Original Medicare. Although it’s no longer available to new Medicare beneficiaries as of January 1, 2020, those who were already enrolled before that date can still keep their plan.
Covered Benefits Under Medigap Plan C
Medigap Plan C provided coverage for the following:
-
Medicare Part A coinsurance and hospital costs (up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are used)
-
Medicare Part B coinsurance or copayment
-
First three pints of blood
-
Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment
-
Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance
-
Medicare Part B deductible
-
Foreign travel emergency care (up to plan limits)
How Plan C Was Used in Original Medicare
Plan C was especially attractive to beneficiaries who wanted almost complete coverage without paying higher premiums associated with Plan F. It allowed policyholders to visit any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare and avoid many unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Why Is Medigap Plan C No Longer Available to New Enrollees?
The MACRA Act and Its Impact
The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) of 2015 was the primary reason for the phase-out of Medigap Plan C. The law prohibits Medigap plans from covering the Medicare Part B deductible for individuals who became eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020. As a result, Plan C (and Plan F) were no longer offered to new beneficiaries.
The idea behind this legislation was to encourage more personal financial responsibility among Medicare recipients by requiring them to pay the Part B deductible.
Who Can Still Enroll in Plan C?
If you turned 65 or became eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020, you may still be able to purchase Medigap Plan C. Additionally, individuals who already had the plan before the cutoff date are allowed to keep it.
Medigap Plan C vs Medicare Part C: Don’t Confuse Them
Key Differences Between Medigap Plan C and Medicare Advantage
It’s a common mistake to confuse Medigap Plan C with Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage. Here’s how they differ:
-
Medigap Plan C is a supplement to Original Medicare.
-
Medicare Part C (Advantage) replaces Original Medicare and often includes Part D (prescription coverage).
Medigap gives you freedom to choose providers nationwide, while Medicare Advantage limits you to specific networks and may have more cost-sharing but also added benefits like vision, dental, and wellness programs.
How Medigap Plans Help Fill Coverage Gaps
Typical Costs Without a Medigap Plan
Without a Medigap plan, beneficiaries are responsible for:
-
$1,632 Part A deductible per benefit period (2025 estimate)
-
20% of Medicare-approved services under Part B
-
Coinsurance for extended hospital stays and skilled nursing facilities
-
Excess charges (if applicable)
These expenses can add up quickly, especially for individuals with chronic illnesses or frequent medical visits.
Benefits of Choosing a Supplement Plan
With a Medigap plan like Plan C (or its alternatives), beneficiaries enjoy:
-
Peace of mind with predictable healthcare costs
-
Nationwide provider access
-
Simplified billing and fewer surprise bills
-
Comprehensive coverage for inpatient and outpatient care
What Is the Average Cost of a Medigap Plan C in 2025?
Cost Variability by Region and Provider
In 2025, the average cost of Medigap Plan C varies based on location, provider, and age of the enrollee. On average, monthly premiums range from $180 to $280. However, in high-cost areas or for older enrollees, the premiums may be higher.
How Pricing Works for Medigap Plans
Medigap policies are priced in three different ways:
-
Community-rated: Same premium for everyone, regardless of age.
-
Issue-age-rated: Premium is based on your age when you buy the plan.
-
Attained-age-rated: Premium increases as you age.
Understanding which pricing method your provider uses can save you thousands over time.
Alternatives to Medigap Plan C in 2025
Since Plan C is no longer available to new enrollees, it’s important to understand your options.
Medigap Plan G
Plan G is the closest in coverage to Plan C and is widely considered the most comprehensive option now available. The only difference is that Plan G does not cover the Medicare Part B deductible.
Medigap Plan N
Plan N offers slightly lower premiums in exchange for modest out-of-pocket costs such as:
-
$20 copayment for office visits
-
$50 copayment for emergency room visits (if not admitted)
-
No coverage for Part B excess charges
What Is the Downside to Medigap Plans?
Premiums and Additional Costs
While Medigap plans offer excellent coverage, they come with monthly premiums in addition to your Medicare Part B premium. Over time, this can be a financial strain for some retirees.
Limited Availability Based on Eligibility
If you miss your open enrollment window, you might be denied coverage or charged a higher premium due to pre-existing conditions. Also, not every insurer offers every Medigap plan, which may limit your choices depending on your location.
How to Choose the Right Medigap Plan in 2025
Factors to Consider When Comparing Plans
-
Your healthcare needs: Do you visit doctors frequently?
-
Budget: Can you afford higher premiums for more coverage?
-
Travel habits: Do you need out-of-country emergency coverage?
-
Risk tolerance: Are you comfortable with some out-of-pocket costs?
Working with Licensed Agents or Brokers
A licensed Medicare insurance agent can help you navigate the complexity and find a plan that best suits your needs. Make sure the agent is independent and works with multiple providers.
Important Enrollment Windows and Guidelines
When to Enroll to Avoid Penalties
The best time to enroll in a Medigap plan is during your Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which begins the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this six-month window, you can buy any Medigap policy offered in your state without medical underwriting.
Late Enrollment Scenarios
If you apply after this window, insurers may:
-
Deny you coverage
-
Require medical underwriting
-
Charge higher premiums
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Medigap plan C?
Medigap Plan C is a Medicare Supplement insurance plan that helps cover many out-of-pocket expenses, including the Part B deductible. It is no longer available to new Medicare beneficiaries.
Why is Medigap Plan C no longer available?
Due to the MACRA Act of 2015, Medigap Plan C was phased out for new enrollees starting in 2020 because it covered the Part B deductible, which the government decided should not be included.
What is the average cost of a Medicare Part C plan?
Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans average $25 to $75 per month, depending on location and provider, although many have $0 premiums.
What is the downside to Medigap plans?
The main downsides include higher monthly premiums and limited plan availability if you miss your open enrollment window.
Final Thoughts
While Medigap Insurance Plan C is no longer available to new enrollees, its legacy lives on through comprehensive alternatives like Plan G and Plan N. Understanding your healthcare needs, comparing plans, and enrolling during your initial eligibility window can save you significant money and stress down the road.
If you’re turning 65 or reviewing your Medicare coverage options in 2025, now’s the time to explore Medigap plans that offer robust protection against unexpected medical costs. Don’t leave your healthcare to chance—plan smart and stay covered.
We make Medicare comparison simple—click NewMedicare.com or call 📞 (833) 203-6742 for a free quote!
About Danny Carington
Related Posts
