Medicare Cost Explorer
What does Medicare actually cost?
Original Medicare has several separate costs, and they behave differently. Here is the full list, plus an illustration of how Plan G and Plan N cost structures differ.
The cost categories
Eight things that can cost you money
Government-set figures change each year. Confirm the current amounts on Medicare.gov before making a decision.
Part A premium
Most people pay nothing because of their work history. Others may buy in.
Part A deductible
Applies per benefit period, not per year. A second hospital stay later in the year can mean a second deductible.
Part B premium
A monthly amount set each year. Higher-income beneficiaries pay an income-related adjustment (IRMAA) on top.
Part B deductible
An annual amount you pay before Part B starts paying its share.
Coinsurance and copays
Generally a share of the Medicare-approved amount, with no annual out-of-pocket maximum under Original Medicare alone.
Medigap premium
A monthly premium to the private insurer. Varies by letter, insurer, state, age, rating method and other factors.
Part D
A separate prescription drug plan with its own premium, deductible and cost sharing, plus an annual out-of-pocket cap.
Penalties and help
Late enrollment penalties can apply. Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help may reduce costs for those who qualify.
Illustration only
Plan G vs Plan N cost structure
Move the sliders to see how the two structures behave. This is an educational illustration using amounts you enter, it is not a quote and not a prediction.
Plan N is modeled with up to a $20 copay for some office visits and up to a $50 copay for emergency room visits that do not lead to admission. Plan N also does not cover Part B excess charges, which are not modeled here.
Illustrated yearly outlay
- Plan G structure
- $2,057
- Plan N structure
- $1,847
- Difference
- $210, Plan N lower here
Educational estimate, not an insurance quote. Actual premiums depend on the insurer, your state, your age, the rating method, underwriting and other factors. Neither plan letter is better for everyone; the right comparison depends on how you use care and what is actually available to you.