Hospital Indemnity Calculator
Medicare doesn't cover everything. See how hospital indemnity insurance can protect you from out-of-pocket costs and put cash in your pocket when you need it most.
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See how hospital indemnity protects you
Compare your Medicare out-of-pocket costs vs. what hospital indemnity pays you.
Select your Medicare type, age, and
coverage level to see your protection
What Medicare leaves you paying in 2026
Whether you have Original Medicare or Medicare Advantage, you're responsible for significant out-of-pocket costs when you're hospitalized. Hospital indemnity insurance helps fill these gaps.
Original Medicare (Part A) Hospital Costs
| Hospital Stay | Your Cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Days 1-60 | $1,736 deductible (per benefit period) |
| Days 61-90 | $434/day coinsurance |
| Days 91-150 (lifetime reserve) | $868/day coinsurance |
| Beyond 150 days | 100% — you pay everything |
Medicare Advantage Hospital Copays (Typical)
| Hospital Stay | Typical Copay |
|---|---|
| Days 1-5 (or 1-7) | $250-$400/day |
| Days 6+ (or 8+) | $0/day (many plans) |
| Annual maximum out-of-pocket | Up to $8,850 in-network (2026) |
Example: A 5-day hospital stay on a typical Medicare Advantage plan could cost you $1,250-$2,000 in copays. Hospital indemnity with Enhanced coverage ($250/day) would pay you $2,250 ($1,000 admission + $250×5 days) — covering your copays and leaving you with extra cash.
Who benefits most from hospital indemnity?
Cash you control
Unlike health insurance that pays hospitals, hospital indemnity pays you directly. There are no receipts to submit, no approval process, no restrictions on how you use the money. Pay your deductible, cover your mortgage, hire help, or simply have peace of mind while you heal.
Frequently asked questions
What is hospital indemnity insurance?
Hospital indemnity insurance pays a fixed cash benefit directly to you when you're hospitalized. Unlike traditional health insurance that pays providers, indemnity benefits are paid to you regardless of your actual medical bills. You can use the money for anything — medical costs, mortgage, groceries, or lost income.
How does hospital indemnity work with Original Medicare?
Original Medicare leaves you paying a $1,736 deductible (2026) every time you're hospitalized. Hospital indemnity pays you cash when you're admitted — typically $500-$2,000 admission benefit plus $100-$500 per day. For a 5-day stay, you could receive $2,000-$4,500 to cover your deductible and have money left over.
Do I need hospital indemnity if I have Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Advantage plans have their own hospital copays — typically $250-$400 per day for the first 5-7 days. A 5-day stay could cost you $1,250-$2,000 in copays alone. Hospital indemnity helps offset these costs and provides extra cash during recovery.
What if I already have Medigap (Medicare Supplement)?
Medigap covers your Medicare cost-sharing, so your hospital bills are largely covered. But Medigap doesn't help with non-medical expenses like lost income, transportation, help around the house, or meals. Hospital indemnity provides cash you can use for anything during recovery.
Can I be denied coverage for pre-existing conditions?
Most hospital indemnity plans have simplified underwriting with few health questions. However, some plans may exclude benefits for conditions you had before enrollment for a limited period (typically 6-12 months). Guaranteed issue plans are available but may have higher premiums.
How much does hospital indemnity insurance cost?
Premiums vary by age, coverage level, and carrier. For ages 65-69, typical monthly premiums range from $65 for basic coverage ($100/day) to $225 for premium coverage ($500/day). Use our calculator to see estimates based on your age and desired coverage level.
Want help finding the right coverage?
Our team can help you understand your Medicare gaps and find a hospital indemnity plan that fits your budget and protection needs. No pressure, no obligation.
Get free helpThis is a solicitation for insurance. Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information. Premium estimates shown are illustrative and based on typical 2026 market rates. Actual premiums and benefits vary by insurance carrier, health history, location, and specific policy terms. Medicare cost-sharing amounts reflect 2026 CMS-published rates. Medicare Advantage copays are illustrative and vary by plan. This calculator is for educational purposes only.