Massachusetts Medigap plans (also called Medicare Supplement plans) cover the gaps in Original Medicare, including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance that would otherwise come out of your pocket. This comprehensive Massachusetts Medigap guide covers available plans, average premiums, top carriers, the birthday rule, guaranteed issue rights, and how to choose between Plan G, Plan N, and other options. Whether you are approaching your initial Medigap Open Enrollment or considering a plan switch, understanding Massachusetts Medigap rules helps you make a confident decision.
All information verified against CMS data and state sources as of April 2026.
In This Massachusetts Medigap Guide:
Medigap Plans Available in Massachusetts
Standardized plans: Core, Supplement 1, Supplement 1A (Massachusetts does NOT use the federal standardized letter plans A-N; it operates under a federal waiver with its own plan designs. Supplement 1 is closed to those Medicare-eligible after Jan 1 2020.)
Every Medigap plan with the same letter provides identical benefits regardless of which carrier sells it. Plan G from one company covers the exact same medical costs as Plan G from another company. The only difference is the premium and the customer service experience. This standardization makes comparison shopping straightforward.
Massachusetts Medigap Rates: Plan G & Plan N
| Plan | Age 65 | Age 70 | Age 75 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plan G | 240 (Massachusetts equivalent is Supplement 1A; average across carriers — community-rated so same at all ages)/mo | 240 (community-rated — identical to age 65)/mo | 240 (community-rated — identical to age 65)/mo |
| Plan N | UNVERIFIED (Massachusetts does not offer a Plan N equivalent; closest option is Core at average 154 per month)/mo | UNVERIFIED (no Plan N equivalent exists in Massachusetts)/mo | Varies |
These are approximate averages. Your actual premium depends on your carrier, zip code, age, gender, and tobacco use. Always compare quotes from at least three carriers before choosing.
How Massachusetts Medigap Pricing Works
Massachusetts uses community-rated Medigap pricing, the most consumer-friendly method. Everyone pays the same premium regardless of age. Your rate will not increase simply because you get older, though carriers may still raise premiums due to inflation or rising healthcare costs.
Household discount: Many Medigap carriers in Massachusetts offer 5-12% household or spousal discounts when two people in the same household both have Medigap policies.
Tobacco surcharge: Tobacco users in Massachusetts typically pay approximately 0 (Massachusetts prohibits tobacco-based premium surcharges on Medigap plans) more in Medigap premiums.
Plan G vs Plan N in Massachusetts
Plan G and Plan N are the two most popular Medigap plans in Massachusetts. Here is how they compare:
| Feature | Plan G | Plan N |
|---|---|---|
| Part B Deductible | Not covered (you pay $240/year in 2026) | Not covered |
| Part B Copay | Covered (no copays) | Up to $20 copay for office visits, up to $50 for ER visits not resulting in admission |
| Part B Excess Charges | Covered | Not covered |
| Monthly Premium | Higher | Lower (typically 15-25% less than Plan G) |
| Best For | Predictable costs, no copays | Lower premiums, okay with small copays |
Bottom line: If you want the most comprehensive coverage with no copays at the doctor, choose Plan G. If you prefer lower monthly premiums and do not mind occasional $20 copays, Plan N offers strong coverage at a lower cost.
Top Medigap Carriers in Massachusetts
Top Medigap carriers in Massachusetts:
- AARP Medicare Supplement (UnitedHealthcare)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Medex)
- Tufts Insurance Company
- Fallon Community Health Plan
- Humana
Tufts Insurance Company (Supplement 1A at approximately 168 per month — lowest confirmed rate) typically offers among the lowest Plan G premiums in Massachusetts. However, the cheapest carrier varies by zip code and age bracket.
When comparing Medigap carriers, the benefits are identical for the same plan letter. Focus on premium cost, AM Best financial strength rating (A or higher is strong), customer service reputation, and rate increase history.
Rate increase trend: Massachusetts Medigap carriers have historically had UNVERIFIED (community rating prevents age-based increases but annual adjustments for inflation and claims do apply; national Medigap increases were significant in 2024-2025 cycle) rate increases compared to the national average.
Massachusetts Medigap Switching Rights
Massachusetts does not have a Medigap birthday rule. Your primary opportunity to buy or switch Medigap plans without medical underwriting is during your initial 6-month Medigap OEP.
Guaranteed Issue Rights in Massachusetts
Federal law provides guaranteed issue rights in specific situations where you can buy a Medigap plan without medical underwriting:
- Losing employer/union coverage
- Your Medicare Advantage plan leaves your area
- You joined an MA plan when first eligible and want to switch back within 12 months (trial right)
- Your Medigap carrier goes bankrupt
Massachusetts-specific guaranteed issue protections: year-round guaranteed issue for all Medigap plans regardless of health status, annual open enrollment Feb 1 through March 31, guaranteed issue when leaving Medicare Advantage at any time, no pre-existing condition waiting periods allowed
Additional Massachusetts Medigap rules: Massachusetts operates under a federal waiver with its own unique Medigap plan designs (Core and Supplement 1 and Supplement 1A) instead of the federal standardized letter plans. Community rating is required by law so premiums cannot vary by age gender or health. Year-round guaranteed issue means carriers cannot deny coverage at any time. No pre-existing condition waiting periods are allowed. No tobacco surcharges permitted. One of only four states (with CT ME and NY) allowing free switching between Medicare Advantage and Medigap without losing guaranteed issue. Annual open enrollment February 1 through March 31 for switching plans or carriers. Free SHINE counseling program available statewide at 1-800-243-4636.
Common Medigap Mistakes in Massachusetts
- Missing your OEP: Your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period is your best window. After it closes, carriers can deny you or charge higher premiums based on health.
- Choosing by carrier name alone: Medigap plans are standardized. A well-known brand’s Plan G costs more but covers the exact same benefits as a smaller carrier’s Plan G.
- Ignoring rate increase history: Some carriers offer low introductory rates then raise premiums aggressively. Ask for 5-year rate increase history before buying.
- Not comparing at least 3 carriers: Premium differences of 30-50% between carriers for the same plan letter are common.
- Confusing Medigap with Medicare Advantage: They are different products. You cannot have both simultaneously (except during limited trial rights).
Compare Massachusetts Medigap Rates
Ready to compare Medigap plans in Massachusetts? Use the official Medicare Plan Finder or contact your local SHIP counselor.
Official Sources & Resources
- Medicare.gov: medicare.gov
- Massachusetts Division of Insurance: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/division-of-insurance
- NAIC Medigap Shopping Guide: naic.org
- CMS Medicare & You Handbook: Medicare & You (PDF)
Last verified April 2026. Contact us if you notice outdated information.