Best Medicare Supplement Plan D Providers

amie-clark
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Best Medicare Supplement Plan D Providers of 2024

Like the term suggests, Medigap insurance is designed to cover the “gaps” in Medicare plans. Though not all U.S. seniors participate in Medigap, at least a quarter of people enrolled in Medicare currently hold supplemental policies. A survey conducted by America's Health Insurance Plans shows that the grand majority of seniors with Medigap policies are highly satisfied with their savings, care, and protection from potentially high medical bills.

EXPERT TIP: The best time to start shopping for supplemental insurance is during your initial enrollment period (six months beginning with the month you turn 65). During this time you are protected by federal law, and cannot be refused coverage or charged more for preexisting health conditions.

What Is Medigap Plan D?

Plan D is one of many federally regulated Medicare supplemental plans. In particular, Plan D is considered a moderate supplemental plan — positioned between more basic and extensive plans. Moreover, Plan D provides similar coverage to that of Plan C (which has just recently been discontinued), minus Part B’s deductible coverage.

In terms of cost, most of the plans we found ranged from $100-$200 in terms of monthly premiums. While it does not have the comprehensive coverage of Plan G, Plan D offers a decent amount of coverage at a more comfortable price. Let’s take a look at what the standard Medigap Plan D covers.

What Medigap Plan D Covers

Benefit Medigap Plan D Coverage
Part A coinsurance and hospital costs up to an additional 365 days after Medicare benefits are depleted Yes
Part B coinsurance or copayment Yes
Blood (first 3 pints) Yes
Part A hospice care coinsurance or copayment Yes
Skilled nursing facility care coinsurance Yes
Part A deductible Yes
Part B deductible No
Part B excess charge No
Foreign travel exchange 80%

EXPERT TIP: You can find a lot of great resources on the official Medicare website. One tool, in particular, allows you to compare companies, policies, and plans by zip code.

How We Chose the Best Medigap Plan D

Since Medicare supplemental insurance is regulated by the government, the actual coverage of each specified plan will be the same across different insurers. With that said, there were some qualities we looked for when choosing which insurers offered the best plans.

We looked for:

  • Bundled savings: The companies listed here not only offer Medicare supplemental insurance, but they also provide life, home, or even auto insurance, with savings included when you purchase multiple plans.
  • Dependability and customer service: Our top four companies have an extensive history in the insurance industry, allowing them to not only provide coverage but also guide customers through the process of filing claims and using their benefits.
  • Added perks and discounts: Since Medigap policies are standard, advantages such as 30-day trials, household discounts, and bonus perks make all the difference.

Pro Tip: To learn more about Medigap, what it covers, and which policy is right for you, take a look at my comprehensive guide to Medigap.

1. State Farm - Best Overall Plan

State Farm Medicare Supplement Insurance
4.6 / 5
See Pricing
Call for best price:
(855) 933-2095
What We Like Most:
  • Available in 45 states
  • Competitive pricing
  • Over 19,000 local agents for personalized service
  • Bundled savings

Overview

Founded in 1922, State Farm started as an auto insurance company catering to farmers. Almost a century later, they are one of the largest insurance groups in the U.S. and cover auto, home, property, life, health, disability, and liability. One thing we like about State Farm is that they will connect you with a local agent — someone from the neighborhood who you can connect with if you have any questions or concerns. That personal touch can be helpful, especially with dealing with tricky things such as medical bills.

State Farm currently offers their Plan D in 45 states. You can get a quote by visiting their website or giving their hotline a call (you will be connected to a local agent).

Price scenario: A 70-year-old woman who lives in Michigan would pay a monthly premium of $162.69.

Pros
  • Over 19,000 local agents for personalized service
  • Bundled savings on multiple policies
  • Competitive pricing
  • Stable company with an extensive history
Cons
  • No options for dental, vision, or prescription coverage

2. Colonial Penn - Best Pricing

What We Like Most:
  • In business since 1879
  • 30-day trial period for policies
  • Specializes in life and Medigap insurance
  • Offers permanent coverage

Overview

You may be familiar with this insurance company from their classic commercials featuring the likes of Lou Rawls and Alex Trebek, among others. Beyond their cultural significance, we especially like Colonial Penn because they have a narrow focus on insurance plans that affect seniors the most: life and Medigap policies.

Colonial Penn currently offers plans in all states (excluding Massachusetts). They do not offer online quotes, but you can set up an appointment with an agent through their website or simply call their sales line.

Price scenario: A 70-year-old woman who lives in Michigan would pay a monthly premium of $181.92.

Pros
  • Wide range of plans
  • Reasonable premiums
  • Portable coverage
  • No network restrictions
Cons
  • No online quoting

3. Anthem - Best Discounts

Anthem Logo
4.1 / 5
See Pricing
Call for best price:
855-635-3873
What We Like Most:
  • Extensive provider network
  • Affordable monthly premiums
  • Bundling options with health and dental
  • Large selection of plans

Overview

One in three Americans is currently insured by a Blue Cross Blue Shield subsidiary, which equates to a vast, national network. Anthem offers its Medigap plans in all states with the exception of Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. All Medicare supplemental plans include perks such as a fitness program membership. You can also add on extra drug coverage, vision, or dental.

Price scenario: A 70-year-old woman who lives in Michigan would pay a monthly premium of $185.84. This price could get even lower, however, with household discounts or discounts for holding additional Anthem policies.

Pros
  • Affordable premiums
  • Extensive company network
  • Bundled with health and dental plans
  • Potentially high yearly allowances
Cons
  • Doesn’t cover all states
  • Denies some claims

4. UnitedHealthcare - Best Customer Service

United Healthcare Logo
4.6 / 5
See Pricing
Call for best price:
(855) 908-2871
What We Like Most:
  • Numerous in-network providers
  • All ages accepted
  • Cheap copays for routine care
  • Simple plan options

Overview

UnitedHealthcare is one of the largest health-care companies in the country. Established in 1977, this company offers a wide range of health insurance plans nationwide. One unique aspect of UnitedHealthcare’s Medicare supplement plans is that they are endorsed by AARP. Their website is extremely helpful, with detailed explanations of coverage for each plan. You can see what plans are available in your zip code. Supplement plans will require you to input your birthday. You can also get a personalized quote or by calling and speaking with an agent. Be sure to ask about their enrollment and household discounts.

For more information on UnitedHealthcare, check out my full review of UnitedHealthcare Medicare supplement insurance.

Price: For a 70-year old woman living in Michigan, the monthly premium would be $146.39; this is the lowest cost option we found.

Pros
  • Simple plan options
  • Competitive premiums
  • Extensive network provider locations
  • No age limit
Cons
  • Cancellation policies differ by state
  • Coverage does not extend to all states