How Florida Medigap policies are priced: issue-age, attained-age and why it matters by 80
The pricing methods insurers use for Medigap in Florida, how premiums diverge over 20 years, and questions to ask before buying.
Two Plan G policies with identical benefits can cost very different amounts over a lifetime, depending on how the insurer prices them. In Florida, insurers file one of three rating methods with the state: attained-age, issue-age or community rating.
A 20-year comparison
In this example the attained-age policy starts cheaper, crosses over in the early 70s, and by 85 costs far more. Over 20 years, total premiums are about $47,220 for issue-age versus $57,339 for attained-age.
Questions to ask before buying
- Which rating method does this policy use?
- What have the average annual increases been for this plan over the past five years?
- Are there household or other discounts, and do they last?
- Is the low starting price a new-business rate that is likely to rise quickly?
Switching later is not guaranteed
Unlike Washington (see Washington's switching rule), Florida does not give a broad annual right to switch Medigap plans without underwriting. Once your open enrollment period ends, a cheaper policy elsewhere may require passing health questions. That makes the initial choice of insurer and rating method more important in Florida.
Compare the long-term cost
Ask for projected premiums at 70, 75 and 80 under the same assumptions, or at least the rate history. The cheapest policy at 65 is not always the cheapest at 80.
Questions people ask
What is attained-age rating?
Premiums rise as you get older, on top of general increases.
Is issue-age always cheaper long-term?
Often over many years, but it depends on each insurer's increases.
Can I switch Medigap plans freely in Florida?
Not generally; after open enrollment most switches require underwriting.
Where can I compare Florida Medigap prices?
The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation publishes a comparison tool.
Independent educational site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the federal Medicare program, or any insurance company. Figures are 2026 amounts published by CMS unless noted; check Medicare.gov for your situation.