Medicare Supplement (Medigap) in Washington

What Medicare Supplement insurance covers

Medicare Supplement insurance (also called Medigap) pays for costs that Original Medicare doesn't cover—copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Medicare Supplement works alongside Original Medicare (not Medicare Advantage). When you have Medigap, you see any provider who accepts Medicare, pay predictable costs, and Medicare handles the billing.

Standardized Medicare Supplement plans

All Medicare Supplement plans are standardized by the federal government (with minor variations by state). Plan A and Plan N are the most popular; Plan G is valuable for those wanting comprehensive coverage. All plans cover the same benefits regardless of insurer—the only difference is price. This means shopping for the lowest-cost carrier is the smart way to buy.

• Plan A. basic coverage; popular and affordable; doesn't cover Part B deductible ($278 in 2024, adjusted annually)
• Plan G. comprehensive; covers Part B deductible and most out-of-pocket costs; often best for frequent medical users
• Plan N. moderate; covers most costs but includes modest copayments; balances premiums and coverage

Washington's Medigap Birthday Rule

Washington has a unique Medigap birthday rule: each year around your birthday, you have a 30- or 60-day window to switch to any equal or lesser Medicare Supplement plan with the same or lower premium, and the carrier cannot deny coverage or charge for pre-existing conditions. This annual window gives Washington enrollees flexibility that most other states lack. You can use your birthday to upgrade, downgrade, or shop for a cheaper carrier annually.

Medicare Supplement enrollment windows in Washington

You can enroll in Medigap during guaranteed-issue windows—the 6 months after you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B. If you miss this window, insurers may use medical underwriting and charge higher premiums based on your health history. However, Washington's birthday rule gives you an additional annual guaranteed-issue opportunity. This makes Washington especially favorable for those who want to switch plans later.

Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage

Medicare Advantage is an HMO or PPO alternative (not Medigap); you typically have a lower premium but pay higher copays, use in-network providers, and deal with prior authorization. Medicare Supplement lets you see any Medicare provider with predictable costs. Choose Medicare Supplement if you value provider choice and predictability; choose Medicare Advantage if you want a lower monthly premium and don't mind using a network.

How to buy Medicare Supplement insurance in Washington through Maru

Maru helps you understand the difference between Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage, choose the right Medigap plan (A, G, N, etc.) for your health and costs, and explain Washington's unique birthday rule. We shop rates across carriers to find your lowest premium. Because Washington's birthday rule makes switching easier, we guide you on when to use that opportunity to save.

Frequently asked questions

Vadim — Maru Insurance
Licensed independent insurance agent · WA & FL
Written and reviewed by a licensed Maru advisor. Maru Insurance is an independent agency (WA License WAOIC #1365574, FL License #G363233) representing multiple A-rated carriers across Washington and Florida.