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.