Medicare Supplement Plans in Texas: Complete Cost & Comparison Guide 2026

Medicare Supplement plans, also known as Medigap policies, are essential for Texas seniors who want comprehensive coverage to fill the gaps in Original Medicare. These Medicare Supplement plans in Texas provide crucial financial protection by covering costs that Medicare Part A and Part B don’t fully pay for, including deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.

As a Texas resident, you have access to all standardized Medigap plans, but pricing and availability can vary significantly between insurance carriers and regions. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate your options and find the most suitable Medicare Supplement plan for your healthcare needs and budget.

Understanding your Medicare Supplement options is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions. Whether you’re new to Medicare or looking to switch plans during your guaranteed issue rights period, this guide provides the Texas-specific information you need to make the best choice.

Understanding Medicare Supplement Plans in Texas

Medicare Supplement insurance works alongside Original Medicare (Parts A and B) to reduce your out-of-pocket healthcare costs. These plans are regulated by both federal and state governments, ensuring standardized benefits across all carriers in Texas.

How Medicare Supplement Plans Work

When you have a Medicare Supplement plan, the process works seamlessly:

Healthcare Provider Bills Medicare First: Your doctor or hospital submits the claim to Medicare Part A or Part B
Medicare Pays Its Share: Original Medicare pays its portion of the approved amount
Supplement Plan Pays: Your Medigap policy automatically pays its share of the remaining costs
You Pay Any Remaining Balance: Depending on your plan, you may have minimal or no remaining costs

Texas-Specific Regulations

Texas follows federal Medigap regulations with some state-specific consumer protections:

Guaranteed Issue Rights: Texas residents have the same federal protections for guaranteed issue periods
State Insurance Department Oversight: The Texas Department of Insurance regulates Medigap policies
Rate Review Process: Insurance carriers must justify rate increases through the state review process
Consumer Protections: Additional state-level protections for Medicare beneficiaries

Available Medicare Supplement Plans in Texas

Texas residents can purchase any of the standardized Medicare Supplement plans available nationwide. Here’s what’s available in 2026:

Standardized Medigap Plans Comparison

Plan	Part A Deductible	Part A Coinsurance	Part B Deductible	Part B Coinsurance	Foreign Travel	Excess Charges
Plan A	No	Yes	No	Yes	No	No
Plan B	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	No	No
Plan C*	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Plan D	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
Plan F*	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Plan G	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Plan K	50%	Yes	No	50%	No	No
Plan L	75%	Yes	No	75%	No	No
Plan M	50%	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	No
Plan N	Yes	Yes	No	Yes**	Yes	No

*Plans C and F are only available to those eligible for Medicare before January 1, 2020
**Plan N requires copayments for some doctor visits and emergency room visits

Most Popular Plans in Texas

Based on enrollment data and consumer preferences, these are the most popular Medicare Supplement plans among Texas residents:

Plan G: The most comprehensive plan available to new Medicare beneficiaries, covering all Medicare gaps except the Part B deductible.

Plan N: A cost-effective option with modest copayments for doctor visits and emergency room visits.

Plan F: Still available for those eligible before 2020, offering the most comprehensive coverage including Part B deductible.

Texas Medicare Supplement Costs and Pricing

Medicare Supplement plan costs in Texas vary significantly based on several factors including your location, age, insurance carrier, and chosen plan type. Understanding these pricing factors will help you find the most affordable option.

Average Costs by Plan Type (2026)

Plan Type	Average Monthly Premium	Age 65	Age 70	Age 75
Plan A	$125 - $185	$125	$145	$165
Plan B	$145 - $215	$145	$165	$195
Plan C	$175 - $265	$175	$205	$235
Plan D	$155 - $235	$155	$185	$215
Plan F	$185 - $285	$185	$225	$265
Plan G	$165 - $245	$165	$195	$225
Plan K	$85 - $125	$85	$95	$115
Plan L	$115 - $165	$115	$135	$155
Plan M	$135 - $195	$135	$155	$185
Plan N	$125 - $185	$125	$145	$175

Regional Price Variations in Texas

Medigap premiums can vary significantly across Texas regions:

Major Metropolitan Areas (Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin):

Typically 10-20% higher than state average
More carrier competition can lead to better rates
Greater variety of plan options

Rural Areas:

Often 15-25% lower than metropolitan areas
Fewer carrier options may limit competition
Limited provider networks in some regions

Border Regions:

Competitive pricing due to cross-border healthcare considerations
Specialized plans for frequent Mexico travelers

Pricing Methods Used in Texas

Texas insurance carriers use three main pricing methods for Medicare Supplement plans:

Community Rated (No-Age-Rated):

Same premium for everyone regardless of age
Premiums increase only due to inflation and claims experience
Less common but offers predictable costs

Issue Age Rated:

Premium based on your age when you first buy the policy
Premiums don’t increase due to age, only inflation
Popular choice for long-term cost predictability

Attained Age Rated:

Premiums increase as you get older
Lower initial costs but higher long-term expenses
Most common pricing method in Texas

Top Medicare Supplement Insurance Carriers in Texas

Choosing the right insurance carrier is as important as selecting the right plan. Here are the leading Medicare Supplement insurers in Texas, known for their financial strength, customer service, and competitive pricing.

AARP/UnitedHealthcare:

Largest Medicare Supplement carrier in Texas
Strong financial ratings and nationwide network
Extensive customer service and online resources
Competitive rates for Plans G and N

Mutual of Omaha:

Long-standing presence in Texas Medicare market
Excellent customer service ratings
Competitive pricing across multiple plan types
Strong financial stability

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas:

Local Texas presence with national backing
Comprehensive provider network
Competitive rates in major metropolitan areas
Strong customer service and local support

Humana:

Growing Medicare Supplement market share
Competitive rates for younger enrollees
Excellent online tools and resources
Strong financial ratings

Cigna Healthcare:

Reliable coverage with competitive pricing
Good customer service ratings
Variety of plan options
Strong presence in urban areas

Carrier Comparison Factors

When comparing Medicare Supplement carriers in Texas, consider these key factors:

Financial Strength: Look for AM Best ratings of A- or higher to ensure the company can pay claims.

Customer Service: Check J.D. Power ratings and customer complaint ratios through the Texas Department of Insurance.

Premium Stability: Review the carrier’s history of rate increases over the past 5-10 years.

Network Coverage: While Medigap plans work with any Medicare-accepting provider, some carriers offer additional benefits.

Plan G vs Plan N: The Top Choice for New Medicare Beneficiaries

For Texas residents who became eligible for Medicare after January 1, 2020, Plans G and N represent the most popular and practical choices. Here’s a detailed comparison to help you decide.

Plan G Benefits

Plan G provides the most comprehensive coverage available to new Medicare beneficiaries:

Covers Part A deductible ($1,632 in 2026)
Covers Part A coinsurance for hospital stays
Covers Part B coinsurance (typically 20% of approved amounts)
Covers Part B excess charges (up to 15% above Medicare’s approved amount)
Foreign travel emergency coverage (80% after $250 deductible, up to $50,000 lifetime)
Only gap: Part B annual deductible ($240 in 2026)

Plan N Benefits and Costs

Plan N offers excellent coverage with modest cost-sharing:

Covers Part A deductible ($1,632 in 2026)
Covers Part A coinsurance for hospital stays
Covers Part B coinsurance with small exceptions
Foreign travel emergency coverage
Cost-sharing: Up to $20 copay for doctor visits, up to $50 for emergency room visits
Gaps: Part B deductible ($240), small copayments, Part B excess charges

Cost Comparison Analysis

Plan G Average Texas Cost: $165-245 monthly
Plan N Average Texas Cost: $125-185 monthly
Monthly Savings with Plan N: $40-60

Break-even Analysis: To determine if Plan N’s savings justify the additional cost-sharing, calculate:

Monthly premium difference × 12 months
Compare to potential annual copayments (estimated $200-500 for typical usage)

For many Texas seniors, Plan N provides excellent value if you don’t mind modest copayments for doctor visits.

Medicare Supplement Enrollment in Texas

Understanding when and how you can enroll in Medicare Supplement plans is crucial for getting the best coverage at the most affordable rates.

Medigap Open Enrollment Period

Your Medigap Open Enrollment Period is the best time to purchase Medicare Supplement insurance:

Duration: 6 months starting the first day you’re enrolled in Medicare Part B and age 65 or older
Guaranteed Issue Rights: Insurance companies cannot deny coverage or charge higher premiums based on health conditions
No Medical Underwriting: You can purchase any available Medigap plan without health questions
Rate Protection: You get the standard rate for your age and location

Special Enrollment Situations

Beyond the open enrollment period, you may have guaranteed issue rights in specific situations:

Trial Right Situations:

Switching from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare
Employer group plan ending
Moving out of a plan’s service area

Guaranteed Issue Rights:

Insurance company bankruptcy or fraud
Involuntary loss of coverage
Moving to a new state

Late Enrollment Considerations

If you apply for Medigap outside your open enrollment period:

Medical Underwriting: Insurance companies can require health information
Coverage Denial: Companies can refuse coverage based on pre-existing conditions
Higher Premiums: You may pay more based on your health status
Waiting Periods: Pre-existing condition waiting periods may apply

Choosing the Right Medicare Supplement Plan

Selecting the ideal Medicare Supplement plan requires careful consideration of your healthcare needs, budget, and personal preferences. Here’s a systematic approach to making the best choice for your situation.

Healthcare Needs Assessment

Frequency of Doctor Visits:

High usage: Consider Plan G for maximum coverage
Moderate usage: Plan N may provide excellent value
Low usage: Plan K or L might offer sufficient coverage at lower cost

Prescription Medications:

Remember that Medigap doesn’t cover prescriptions
You’ll need separate Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage
Consider total healthcare costs including Part D premiums

Specialist Care Requirements:

Plan G provides the most predictable costs
Plan N copayments apply to specialist visits
Consider your comfort level with cost-sharing

Budget Considerations

Monthly Premium Budget:

Set a realistic monthly budget for Medigap premiums
Remember premiums typically increase over time
Consider your total Medicare costs (Part B + Part D + Supplement)

Out-of-Pocket Tolerance:

Plan G: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs
Plan N: Lower premiums, modest copayments
High-deductible plans: Lowest premiums, highest initial costs

Long-term Cost Projections:

Consider premium increases over 10-20 years
Factor in potential healthcare cost inflation
Plan for fixed income adjustments in retirement

Travel and Lifestyle Factors

Frequent Travel:

Plans C, D, F, G, M, and N include foreign travel emergency coverage
Coverage provides 80% of emergency costs after $250 deductible
Lifetime maximum of $50,000 per beneficiary

Seasonal Residence (Snowbirds):

Medigap plans work nationwide with any Medicare-accepting provider
No network restrictions for temporary relocations
Consider coverage in both Texas and seasonal residence state

Cross-Border Healthcare:

Foreign travel coverage for emergency situations
Regular healthcare in Mexico not covered by Medicare or Medigap
Consider specialized travel insurance for frequent international travel

Regional Considerations for Texas Medicare Recipients

Texas’s vast geography and diverse population create unique considerations for Medicare Supplement coverage across different regions of the state.

Urban vs Rural Coverage Considerations

Major Metropolitan Areas (Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, Austin):

Advantages:

More insurance carrier options and competitive pricing
Extensive healthcare provider networks
Greater availability of specialists
More Medicare education resources

Considerations:

Higher cost of living may affect premium affordability
More complex healthcare systems to navigate
Potential for longer wait times with popular specialists

Rural Texas Communities:

Advantages:

Often lower Medigap premiums
Closer relationships with local healthcare providers
Less complex healthcare environments

Considerations:

Fewer insurance carrier options
Limited specialist availability may require travel
Fewer Medicare education resources locally available

Border Region Considerations

South Texas Border Areas:

Many Texas seniors near the Mexican border have unique healthcare considerations:

Cross-border healthcare usage: Medicare and Medigap don’t cover routine care in Mexico
Emergency travel coverage: Foreign travel benefits apply to emergencies in Mexico
Dual-language resources: Look for carriers with Spanish-speaking customer service
Cultural healthcare preferences: Consider providers who understand cultural healthcare approaches

Specific City Guides

For detailed information about Medicare options in Texas’s largest cities, see our comprehensive city guides:

These guides provide specific information about local carriers, SHIP offices, and healthcare resources in each metropolitan area.

Texas State Resources and Support

Texas offers numerous resources to help Medicare beneficiaries understand their options and make informed decisions about Medicare Supplement coverage.

Texas State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

The Texas SHIP program, operated through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (THHSC), provides free Medicare counseling and assistance:

Services Provided:

Unbiased Medicare plan comparisons
Help understanding Medicare Supplement options
Assistance with enrollment and applications
Support with Medicare appeals and complaints
Education about Medicare fraud prevention

How to Access SHIP Services:

Call the statewide helpline: 1-800-252-9240
Visit local SHIP offices throughout Texas
Access online resources at THHSC website
Attend community education seminars

Local SHIP Office Locations

SHIP services are available through Area Agencies on Aging across Texas:

East Texas:

Tyler, Longview, Marshall areas
Local aging services offices

North Texas:

Dallas, Fort Worth metropolitan areas
Detailed information in our Dallas-Fort Worth Medicare guide

Central Texas:

Austin, San Antonio, Temple areas
University of Texas health system partnerships

South Texas:

Houston metropolitan area
Detailed information in our Houston Medicare guide
Border region specialized services

West Texas:

El Paso, Lubbock, Midland areas
Rural outreach programs

Texas Department of Insurance Resources

The Texas Department of Insurance provides additional Medicare-related services:

Rate and form approvals for Medicare Supplement plans
Consumer complaint resolution for insurance issues
Market conduct oversight of insurance carriers
Educational materials about Medicare Supplement rights

Additional Texas Resources

Texas Health and Human Services Commission (THHSC):

Medicaid and dual-eligible program information
Coordination with federal Medicare programs
State health insurance marketplace oversight

Local Senior Centers:

Community-based Medicare education programs
Peer counseling and support groups
Health and wellness programs for Medicare beneficiaries

Area Agencies on Aging:

Comprehensive senior services
Medicare enrollment assistance
Long-term care planning resources

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Medicare Supplement Plans

What is the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans in Texas?

Medicare Advantage plans are private insurance plans that replace Original Medicare (Parts A and B) and often include prescription drug coverage. Medicare Supplement plans work alongside Original Medicare to fill coverage gaps. Key differences:

Medicare Advantage: Network restrictions, often lower premiums, may include extra benefits like dental/vision
Medicare Supplement: No network restrictions, higher premiums, predictable out-of-pocket costs
Provider Access: Supplement plans work with any Medicare-accepting provider nationwide

For a detailed comparison, see our complete guide to Medicare in Texas.

Can I switch Medicare Supplement plans after my initial enrollment period?

Yes, but it depends on your situation:

During Guaranteed Issue Periods: You can switch without medical underwriting if you qualify for special enrollment rights.

Outside Guaranteed Issue Periods:

Insurance companies can require medical underwriting
You may be denied coverage based on health conditions
Premiums may be higher based on your health status
Some companies may accept applications year-round with health questions

Best Strategy: Compare plans annually but be prepared for potential medical underwriting if switching outside guaranteed issue periods.

Do Medicare Supplement plans cover prescription drugs?

No, Medicare Supplement plans do not cover prescription medications. You’ll need separate Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage to avoid penalties and get prescription coverage.

Most Texas residents need three parts of Medicare:

Original Medicare (Parts A and B)
Medicare Supplement plan (Medigap)
Medicare Part D prescription drug plan

Learn more about prescription coverage in our Medicare Part D guide for Texas residents.

How much do Medicare Supplement plans cost in Texas?

Premium costs vary significantly based on several factors:

Plan type: Plan G typically costs $165-245 monthly, Plan N costs $125-185 monthly
Your age: Premiums generally increase with age under most pricing methods
Location: Urban areas typically cost 10-20% more than rural areas
Insurance carrier: Different companies charge different rates for identical coverage
Pricing method: Community-rated, issue-age-rated, or attained-age-rated

Total Medicare costs include Part B premiums, Part D premiums, and Supplement premiums, typically ranging from $350-600 monthly.

What happens if I move from Texas to another state?

Good news: Medicare Supplement plans are standardized nationally, so Plan G in Texas provides the same benefits as Plan G in any other state.

When moving:

Your current plan continues to work nationwide
You may want to find a new insurance carrier with better rates in your new state
You might qualify for guaranteed issue rights when moving to certain states
Consider the cost of living and healthcare costs in your new location

Moving within Texas: No changes needed, as your plan works statewide.

Can I be denied Medicare Supplement coverage due to pre-existing conditions?

During your Medigap Open Enrollment Period (first 6 months with Part B at age 65 or older): No, insurance companies must accept your application and cannot charge higher premiums based on health conditions.

Outside the Open Enrollment Period: Yes, insurance companies can:

Require detailed health information
Deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions
Charge higher premiums based on your health status
Impose waiting periods for pre-existing conditions

Exception: You have guaranteed issue rights in specific situations like losing employer coverage or moving from Medicare Advantage.

Are there any Medicare Supplement plans that include dental and vision coverage?

Standard Medicare Supplement plans (A through N) do not include dental, vision, or hearing coverage. However, some insurance carriers offer:

Optional Riders: Additional coverage you can purchase for dental and vision care Package Deals: Bundled products that combine Medigap with separate dental/vision plans Discount Programs: Reduced rates for dental and vision services

Alternative: Some Texas residents choose Medicare Advantage plans instead of Medigap specifically for dental and vision benefits, but this means giving up the freedom to see any Medicare provider.

How do I file claims with my Medicare Supplement plan?

Great news: You typically don’t need to file claims with your Medicare Supplement plan!

The process works automatically:

Healthcare provider submits claim to Medicare first
Medicare processes and pays its portion
Medicare automatically forwards remaining balance to your supplement plan
Supplement plan pays its portion directly to the provider
You receive explanation of benefits showing what was paid

You only handle:

Paying any remaining balance not covered by Medicare or your supplement plan
Keeping copies of explanation of benefits for your records

What should I do if my Medicare Supplement carrier raises rates significantly?

Rate increases are unfortunately common with Medicare Supplement plans. Here’s what you can do:

Immediate Actions:

Review the rate increase notice carefully
Compare current rates from other carriers for the same plan
Contact your insurance agent for alternative quotes

Consider Shopping:

If you’re in good health, you might qualify for better rates elsewhere
Some carriers offer discounts for new customers
Annual comparison shopping can save hundreds of dollars

Important: Outside your open enrollment period, you’ll likely need to answer health questions and could be denied coverage.

Get Help: Contact Texas SHIP counselors at 1-800-252-9240 for unbiased assistance comparing your options.

Getting Help with Your Medicare Supplement Decision

Choosing the right Medicare Supplement plan is an important decision that affects your healthcare and finances for years to come. You don’t have to navigate this process alone.

Professional Medicare Assistance

Licensed Insurance Agents:

Can provide quotes from multiple carriers
Help compare plan benefits and costs
Assist with application process
Provide ongoing policy service

Medicare Counselors:

Texas SHIP volunteers provide unbiased education
No cost for counseling services
Help understanding all Medicare options
Assistance with enrollment and applications

Online Resources and Tools

Official Medicare Resources:

Medicare.gov plan comparison tool
Medicare & You handbook
State-specific Medicare information

Carrier Websites:

Online quote tools
Plan benefit summaries
Provider network information
Customer service portals

Contact Us for Personalized Assistance

Our team of Medicare specialists understands the unique needs of Texas seniors. We can help you:

Compare all available Medicare Supplement plans in your Texas county
Get quotes from top-rated insurance carriers
Understand the differences between Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans
Navigate the enrollment process and ensure you meet all deadlines
Review your current coverage and identify potential savings opportunities

Contact us today for a free Medicare consultation. Our Texas-based Medicare specialists are ready to help you find the perfect Medicare Supplement plan for your healthcare needs and budget.

Call us toll-free: 1-800-MEDICARE-TX
Email: info@texasmedicareseniors.com
Online: Schedule a consultation through our website

Conclusion

Medicare Supplement plans provide essential financial protection for Texas seniors by filling the gaps in Original Medicare coverage. With standardized benefits, guaranteed acceptance during your open enrollment period, and the freedom to see any Medicare-accepting provider, Medigap policies offer peace of mind and predictable healthcare costs.

The key to success is understanding your options, comparing costs from multiple carriers, and enrolling during your guaranteed issue period. Whether you choose the comprehensive coverage of Plan G or the cost-effective balance of Plan N, having Medicare Supplement insurance protects you from potentially catastrophic medical expenses.

Remember that Medicare is a personal decision based on your unique healthcare needs, budget, and lifestyle. Take advantage of the free resources available through Texas SHIP, compare quotes from multiple insurance carriers, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance when making this important decision.

For more comprehensive information about Medicare in Texas, explore our other helpful guides:

Your Medicare Supplement plan should provide security and peace of mind for years to come. Choose wisely, and enjoy the confidence that comes with comprehensive healthcare coverage.

Table of Contents