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Medicare Costs 2026: What Beneficiaries and Agents Need to Know

As Medicare undergoes significant shifts in 2026, beneficiaries will face new premiums, deductibles, and cost-sharing structures. These costs impact how they access and budget for care. For agents, understanding these changes is essential for guiding clients through enrollment decisions and helping them prepare for the year ahead. Here’s a breakdown of important Medicare cost updates for 2026 and what they mean for the people you serve.

Higher Costs Driven by Utilization and Program Changes

Several factors are driving cost increases across Medicare Part A and Part B in 2026:

• Greater healthcare utilization: Hospital and outpatient visits continue to rise.
• Higher reimbursement requirements: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is adjusting payments to hospitals, physicians, and Medicare Advantage plans due to inflation and increased care complexity.
• Changes in Medicare Advantage rules: Policy shifts for 2026; including tighter oversight and reduced supplemental benefit flexibility, are indirectly affecting Original Medicare spending trends.

While Medicare costs rise most years, 2026 brings a more noticeable increase driven by combined economic and regulatory pressures.

Medicare Part A Costs for 2026

Most beneficiaries still receive Part A with no monthly premium (if they qualify via work-history) but other Part A cost-sharing amounts are increasing:

• Inpatient hospital deductible (Part A): For 2026 the deductible for a benefit period is $1,736, up from $1,676 in 2025.
• Daily coinsurance for days 61–90 in hospital: $434 per day in 2026, up from $419.
• Lifetime reserve-day coinsurance: $868 per day in 2026.
• Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) coinsurance (days 21-100): $217 per day in 2026, up from $209.50.

Agents should remind clients that even if Part A premium is “free,” they can still face significant out-of-pocket exposure via hospital stays and extended care—making Medigap or a well-selected Medicare Advantage plan even more important.

Medicare Part B Costs for 2026

Part B sees some of the most direct increases:

• Standard monthly premium (Part B): $202.90 per month in 2026 (up from $185.00 in 2025).
• Annual deductible (Part B): $283 in 2026 (up from $257 in 2025).
• Income-related monthly adjustment amounts (IRMAA): Beneficiaries with higher incomes will pay more than the standard premium; for 2026 the standard premium applies to individuals with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) up to $109,000 (or $218,000 for joint filers)

For agents, breaking down these numbers early in AEP and during SEP conversations helps clients avoid sticker-shock and budget accurately.

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Prescription Drug Costs

• The annual deductible for the standard Part D benefit in 2026 is $615.
• Beneficiaries will pay cost-sharing (typically coinsurance) during the initial coverage phase until their true out-of-pocket (TrOOP) drug spending hits $2,100 for 2026. At that point, the plan pays 100% of covered drugs for the rest of the year.
• All 2026 Part D plans are required to include this $2,100 cap.
• For beneficiaries with very high drug costs, this cap provides meaningful protection, limiting their maximum annual out-of-pocket prescription drug expense (excluding premiums).

Learn more about the drug cap – watch a YouTube video

Medicare costs are rising in 2026; with thoughtful planning, beneficiaries and their agents can manage these changes with confidence. By staying informed and proactively communicating updates, agents stand out as trusted, knowledgeable guides.

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Fewer Medicare Ads This year

If it feels like you’re seeing fewer Medicare commercials this year, you’re right; and there’s a strategic reason behind it. Medicare Advantage (MA) carriers are reshaping their marketing approach, scaling back traditional outreach, and rethinking how they attract new members. The shift is driven by tighter budgets, lower margins, and a growing need to stabilize enrollment rather than fuel massive growth.

Carriers Are Controlling Enrollment Growth

One of the biggest changes this year is that some Medicare Advantage insurers don’t actually want huge spikes in enrollment. After facing higher-than-expected medical costs and reduced federal payments, carriers are trying to manage their risk pools more carefully. For some companies, adding too many new members; especially in a short period, can strain budgets and hurt profit margins. As a result, they are intentionally easing up on aggressive recruitment.

Watch a YouTube video in Medicare Enrollment Periods

Cost-Control Drives Marketing Cutbacks

Traditional Medicare marketing is expensive. TV spots, large call centers, and massive direct mail campaigns require big budgets. Many insurers are pulling back to control costs and protect their financial outlook for 2026 and beyond. Instead of blasting ads all over every network, carriers are shifting toward more targeted and cost-efficient approaches.

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Retention Over Recruitment

Rather than chasing every possible new enrollee, insurers are shifting their focus toward retaining current members. Improving member experience, reducing churn, and keeping satisfaction high are now more important than driving big enrollment surges. Retention is cheaper; and often more profitable than acquiring new members.

Direct Mail Is Losing Priority

Direct mail has long been a cornerstone of Medicare Advantage marketing, but its impact has diminished. High printing and postage costs combined with lower response rates mean fewer carriers are using it at the scale they once did. You’ve probably noticed fewer flyers and brochures in your mailbox because insurers simply aren’t sending as many.

Digital Channels Are the New Frontier

As today’s “younger seniors” age into Medicare, insurers are turning to online channels to reach them. Social media, paid search, email, and educational video content allow companies to connect with tech-comfortable beneficiaries in a more targeted and cost-effective way.

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Medicare A and B Basics

Understanding Medicare can feel overwhelming at first, but it becomes much simpler once you break it down into the two core parts of Original Medicare: Part A and Part B. These two components form the foundation of Medicare coverage and help beneficiaries access essential hospital and medical care. Whether you’re approaching age 65 or helping a loved one navigate enrollment, here’s the Medicare A and B Basics.

What Medicare Part A Covers (Hospital Insurance)

Medicare Part A is often called hospital insurance because it helps cover care you receive in a hospital or similar inpatient setting. Most people receive Part A premium-free as long as they or their spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years.

Part A covers:

Inpatient Hospital Care

This includes semi-private rooms, meals, nursing care, medications given in the hospital, and other hospital services. Part A does not cover private rooms unless medically necessary.

Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) Care

Part A may cover care in a skilled nursing facility after a qualifying three-day inpatient hospital stay. This is not long-term custodial care, but medically necessary rehabilitation services such as physical or occupational therapy.

Home Health Care

If ordered by a doctor and medically necessary, Part A can help cover intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, or speech therapy delivered in the home.

Hospice Care

For patients with a terminal illness and a prognosis of six months or less, Part A provides comprehensive hospice benefits, including pain relief, symptom management, and family support.

Part A Costs

Most beneficiaries pay no monthly premium, but deductibles and coinsurance still apply. For example, there is a per-benefit-period deductible for hospital stays and daily coinsurance after certain lengths of inpatient care.

Watch a YouTube video on Medicare Enrollment Periods

What Medicare Part B Covers (Medical Insurance)

Medicare Part B is medical insurance that covers outpatient and physician services. Unlike Part A, everyone pays a monthly premium for Part B, and higher-income beneficiaries may pay more.

Part B covers:

Doctor Visits

This includes primary care, specialists, and certain preventive screenings and exams.

Outpatient Services

Such as X-rays, lab work, outpatient surgeries, and emergency room or urgent care services (when not admitted as an inpatient).

Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

Items like walkers, wheelchairs, CPAP machines, and home oxygen equipment.

Preventive Care

Medicare Part B provides a wide range of preventive services at no extra cost when using participating providers; annual wellness visits, vaccines, mammograms, colonoscopies, and more.

Mental Health Services

Includes outpatient therapy, psychiatric evaluations, and some partial hospitalization programs.

Part B Costs

Beneficiaries pay a standard monthly premium, an annual deductible, and typically 20% coinsurance for most covered services. Part B has no out-of-pocket maximum unless you pair it with a Medigap plan or choose a Medicare Advantage plan.

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How Medicare A & B Work Together

Part A and Part B complement each other to provide broad medical coverage. Part A focuses on inpatient care, while Part B handles outpatient and ongoing medical needs. Many people choose to add:

• A Medicare Supplement (Medigap) to reduce out-of-pocket costs
• A Part D prescription drug plan
• Or a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles A, B, and often D into one

Your choice depends on your budget, health needs, and preferred style of coverage.

Understanding the basics of Medicare Parts A and B is the first step in building reliable coverage for your healthcare needs. By knowing what each part covers and what it doesn’t; you can make confident decisions as you prepare for enrollment or compare additional coverage options

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Medicaid and Long-Term Care

When it comes to paying for long-term care, many families are surprised to learn that Medicare doesn’t cover most long-term care costs. That’s where Medicaid can step in as a vital resource. For seniors and individuals with limited income and assets, Medicaid can help cover the high cost of nursing home care and, in some cases, in-home or assisted living services. However, the rules can be complex and understanding how Medicaid and long-term care work together can be important to planning ahead.

Medicaid coverage of Long-Term Care

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps people with low income and limited resources pay for healthcare. One of its most important benefits is coverage for long-term care services, such as:

• Nursing home care (room, meals, skilled nursing, and personal care)
• Home and community-based services (HCBS) like in-home aides, adult day care, or home modifications
• Assisted living services in some states

Because Medicaid is managed by each state within federal guidelines, coverage details and eligibility requirements vary depending on where you live.

Financial Eligibility: Income and Asset Limits

To qualify for Medicaid long-term care, applicants must meet strict financial and functional requirements.

Most states have both:

• Income limits — based on a percentage of the federal poverty level or a fixed monthly cap.
• Asset limits — typically allowing applicants to keep only a small amount in countable resources (often around $2,000 for an individual).

However, not all assets are counted. For example, your primary residence (up to a certain equity limit), one vehicle, personal belongings, and certain burial funds may be excluded.

Couples have special rules called “spousal impoverishment protections”, which allow the healthy spouse to retain a portion of income and assets so they are not left destitute.

Functional Eligibility: Level of Care Requirements

In addition to financial need, applicants must demonstrate a medical need for long-term care. Each state has criteria to determine whether a person requires nursing home level of care; such as needing assistance with multiple daily activities (bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, or mobility).

Medicaid Estate Recovery

It’s important to note that Medicaid can seek repayment for long-term care costs from the estate of the deceased beneficiary. This process, called estate recovery, generally occurs after the recipient’s death, often through the sale of property or assets left behind. However, exceptions and delays may apply if there’s a surviving spouse or dependent child.

Watch a YouTube video on LTC and Alternatives

Home and Community-Based Waivers (HCBS)

Many states now offer Medicaid waivers that allow people to receive care at home or in community settings rather than in nursing homes. These programs help individuals remain as independent as possible while still receiving support services. Waiver programs often have limited slots and waiting lists, so early planning is essential.

The Importance of Planning Ahead

Medicaid long-term care planning can be complex; involving income limits, asset transfers, and look-back periods (typically five years). Attempting to give away assets or transfer property before applying can trigger penalty periods of ineligibility.

Working with a qualified elder law attorney or Medicaid planning specialist can help families understand their options, protect assets legally, and prepare for future care needs.

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Medicaid is a lifeline for many Americans who need long-term care but cannot afford it privately. By understanding the program’s eligibility rules, coverage options, and planning strategies, families can make informed decisions that protect both their health and their financial well-being.

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Understanding Medicare Part D Coverage

Medicare Part D is the portion of Medicare that helps pay for prescription drugs, providing essential coverage for those who rely on medication. While Part D plans differ, they all follow general Medicare guidelines. This makes understanding Medicare Part D coverage a little easier. Here’s a breakdown of what Part D covers, and what it does not cover, to help avoid surprises at the pharmacy.

What Medicare Part D Covers

Medicare Part D plans are offered by private insurance companies, and each plan has its own formulary, or list of covered medications. Still, all plans must include a wide range of commonly used prescription drugs.

Retail and Mail-Order Prescriptions

Part D primarily covers medications you pick up at a pharmacy or receive through mail-order. Drugs are grouped into tiers, which determine your copay or coinsurance.

Essential Drug Classes

Plans must include at least 1 medication in each key category such as:

• Antidepressants
• Antipsychotics
• Immunosuppressants
• HIV/AIDS medications
• Anticonvulsants
• Some oral cancer drugs not covered by Part B

Certain Vaccines

Part D pays for vaccines not covered by Part B, including the shingles vaccine.

Insulin and Related Supplies

Many plans have capped insulin costs and cover supplies like needles and syringes.

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What Medicare Part D Does Not Cover

While Part D covers many prescriptions, several important exclusions apply.

Drugs Given in a Hospital

If you’re admitted as an inpatient, medications provided during your stay are covered under Medicare Part A, not Part D.

Medications Administered in a Doctor’s Office

Any drug that must be given by a healthcare professional; such as injections, infusions, or biologics, is usually covered under Medicare Part B.

Examples include:

• IV antibiotics
• Chemotherapy infusions
• Injectable osteoporosis treatments

Over-the-Counter Products

Part D does not cover vitamins, supplements, or OTC medications unless a plan offers them as an added benefit.

Watch a YouTube video on the $2K drug cap

Cosmetic and Weight-Loss Medications

Most drugs used for cosmetic purposes or weight reduction are excluded.

Non-Formulary Drugs

If a drug isn’t listed on a plan’s formulary, it generally won’t be covered unless your doctor requests and the plan approves a formulary exception.

Experimental Drugs

Any medication that is not FDA-approved is excluded.

Medicare Part D is a valuable benefit, but understanding what it covers and doesn’t, helps you choose the right plan and avoid unexpected costs. Reviewing formularies and pharmacy networks each year ensures you get the most from your prescription drug coverage.

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Medicare Advantage Compensation Loss – State Regulators Push Back

The tension between state insurance regulators and Medicare Advantage (MA) carriers is reaching a new level. As insurers continue tightening their budgets and limiting new enrollment; often by cutting commissions to brokers and restricting access to online applications. Some state officials are challenging what they view as unfair and potentially unlawful practices when it comes to Medicare advantage compensation loss.

With the 2026 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) already underway, this conflict could shape the future of how MA plans are marketed, sold, and regulated.

Why Carriers Are Reducing Broker Compensation

Financial pressures have been building within Medicare Advantage for several years. Rising utilization costs, increased regulatory scrutiny, and shrinking federal reimbursement have pushed Medicare insurers to prioritize profit stability over rapid membership growth.

As part of this shift, some carriers have:

• Eliminated or reduced commissions on specific plans
• Limited access to agent-facing online enrollment platforms
• Discouraged new enrollments that could attract higher-cost members

The carriers intend to use these measures to control risk and protect margins. Although for brokers and agents, the fallout is immediate; lost income, lowered client expectations, and fewer ways to serve Medicare beneficiaries effectively.

Watch a YouTube video on SEPs for discontinued Medicare advantage plans

States Begin to Challenge Commission Cuts

Insurance commissioners in Delaware, Idaho, Montana, Oklahoma, New Hampshire, and North Dakota have taken a firm stance: cutting or withholding commissions to reduce Medicare Advantage enrollment crosses the line into unfair trade practices.

Some regulators have directly warned carriers to stop using marketing tactics that restrict enrollment or disadvantage third-party marketers. Others have gone further:

• Idaho issued cease-and-desist orders against UnitedHealthcare and PacificSource for allegedly violating state insurance standards.
• Additional states have threatened penalties, sanctions, or legal action if insurers refuse to restore fair broker compensation.

State officials argue that if MA plans are sold within their borders, insurers must comply with state marketing and sales laws regardless of the program’s federal oversight.

The Stakes Are High for Both Sides

This conflict puts both insurers and brokers; and ultimately beneficiaries, in a difficult position.

For insurers, compliance with state demands could trigger:

• Tighter pricing
• Fewer $0 premium plans
• Potential consideration of market exits

As one industry expert noted, when carriers feel they cannot adjust compensation or enrollment strategy to manage risk, they may be more likely to scale back or leave smaller markets.

However, carriers also have strong incentives not to leave states completely. If an insurer exits a Medicare Advantage market, it is barred from re-entering for years. This could present a long-term setback few companies want to face.

For brokers, reduced compensation means:

• Inconsistent or unpredictable payment
• Competing against carriers that restrict access to enrollment platforms
• Difficulty supporting clients when carriers remove commissions after applications are already submitted

Marketing groups emphasized that commissions are built into plan pricing and actuarial calculations. In other words; carriers planned for these costs long before selling the product.

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Legal and Regulatory Questions

A key unresolved issue is whether state regulators have the authority to intervene in the sales and marketing of a federal healthcare program like Medicare Advantage.

Many legal experts believe states have more power than carriers acknowledge. They regulate:

• Agent licensing
• Marketing conduct
• Fair business practices within state borders

Some policy analysts argue that states may actually hold more leverage than CMS in enforcing sales and marketing standards; especially when unfair business practices affect consumers or licensed agents.

Idaho’s insurance director has signaled that the state expects legal challenges and is prepared to defend its position. This includes efforts to force insurers to retroactively pay withheld commissions.

On the other hand, insurers may counter-sue states, arguing that Medicare’s federal structure preempts state authority.

Where This Leaves Brokers and Beneficiaries

As this dispute unfolds, brokers remain stuck in the middle. They must comply with evolving state rules while navigating restrictive carrier policies. At the same time, beneficiaries risk losing access to the knowledgeable agents they rely on to explain coverage options, especially in rural or underserved markets.

Let’s Sum it all up

• Medicare Advantage carriers are reducing or eliminating broker commissions to limit new enrollment and protect margins.
• Insurance regulators in at least six states are challenging these tactics and threatening enforcement actions.
• If insurers restore full commissions, they risk enrolling higher-cost or unprofitable members, creating financial strain.
• The question of whether states can regulate MA sales and marketing remains unresolved, setting up likely court battles.

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Weight Loss Drugs and Medicare

If you are a Medicare agent, there is no doubt you have been asked about weight loss drugs and Medicare coverage. There is some big news for Medicare beneficiaries: starting in 2026, weight loss medications will be covered through a Medicare Part D pilot program. Thanks to recent deals between the Trump administration and drug makers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, eligible clients can access these medications for just $50 per month, down from $1,000 or more.

Who Qualifies

Not everyone will be eligible. The program targets about 10% of Medicare enrollees with severe obesity or high-risk conditions:

• Severely obese (BMI > 35)
• Overweight (BMI > 27) with prediabetes or cardiovascular disease
• Obese with advanced kidney disease, heart failure, or uncontrolled hypertension

Medicare will cover about $245 per month, making the program affordable and accessible.

Watch a quick YouTube video to learn more about the Canadian Medstore

How We Got Here

Initially, in April 2025, CMS decided not to cover anti-obesity medications due to high costs. Estimates suggested a potential $25–35 billion increase in spending over the next decade.

Everything changed in November 2025 when the Trump administration negotiated directly with manufacturers as part of the “Most Favored Nation” initiative. The result: a dramatic price drop that made coverage feasible without straining the Medicare budget.

TrumpRx: Option for Everyone

Even those who don’t qualify for Medicare coverage will have access to lower-cost medications starting January 2026 through TrumpRx.gov.

• Starting price: between $350 and $245/month
• Oral GLP-1 options expected pending FDA approval
• Available to anyone, regardless of insurance

What Medicare Covers Now

Before 2026, Medicare Part B covers obesity screenings and behavioral therapy, while Part D may cover GLP-1 drugs only if prescribed for diabetes or other approved conditions. Weight loss drugs are not otherwise covered.

Why This Matters for Agents

This is a game-changing opportunity for clients managing obesity or related health conditions. Agents can:

• Check Part D formularies for covered weight loss medications
• Compare plans for eligible clients
• Track policy updates in real time

The new coverage replaces compounded semaglutide options, giving clients access to brand-name medications at lower costs.

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Two Pricing Tracks

• Trump Deal (2026): $245/month to Medicare, $50 copay for eligible beneficiaries
• IRA Negotiations, put in place by the Biden administration, (2027): Could bring additional savings for Ozempic and Wegovy

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What seemed improbable months ago is now reality. By staying informed and guiding clients through their coverage options, agents provide real value during the 2026 enrollment season and beyond.

Why Medicare Supplement Rates Are Increasing

Many Medicare beneficiaries have recently noticed that their Medicare Supplement (Medigap) premiums are climbing; sometimes more than expected. The Medicare supplement rate increases can be frustrating, especially for retirees on fixed incomes. However, there are several factors driving these adjustments that help explain why costs are rising across the board.

Rising Healthcare Costs Nationwide

Healthcare costs in the United States continue to rise each year, driven by inflation in hospital charges, doctor fees, prescription drug prices, and medical technology. Medicare Supplement insurance companies base their premiums on the cost of paying future claims. As healthcare services become more expensive, insurers must collect more in premiums to keep up with the cost of covering beneficiaries’ care.

An Aging Policyholder Population

As people age, they typically require more frequent and costly medical care. Medicare Supplement plans, particularly those with long-standing enrollees, experience higher claim volumes as the average age of their members increases. When claims outpace the amount collected in premiums, insurers must adjust rates to remain financially stable.

Inflation and Administrative Expenses

General economic inflation affects almost every industry; including insurance. Administrative expenses such as employee wages, technology costs, and compliance requirements have all increased in recent years. Insurers incorporate these higher operating costs into their premium calculations, which contributes to annual rate increases.

Medical Advancements and Utilization

Medical advancements help seniors live longer and healthier lives, but they also come with higher price tags. New treatments, diagnostic tools, and specialized therapies often cost more than older alternatives. At the same time, people are using more healthcare services overall, from preventive screenings to outpatient procedures, raising total claim costs and, ultimately, premiums.

Plan Type and Rating Method

The way a Medicare Supplement plan is priced also affects future rate increases. There are three main rating methods:

• Community-rated: Everyone pays the same rate regardless of age. Increases are usually due to inflation or claim experience.
• Issue-age-rated: Rates are based on the age when you enroll; increases come from inflation and claims, not your age.
• Attained-age-rated: Rates start lower but increase as you age, plus inflation and claim adjustments.

Those enrolled in attained-age plans often experience the steepest long-term increases.

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Smaller Risk Pools and Market Shifts

As Medicare Advantage enrollment continues to grow, fewer people are buying new Medicare Supplement plans. A smaller pool of members means less spread of risk, which can cause rates to rise faster for remaining policyholders. Additionally, some carriers exit certain states or discontinue specific plans, leaving fewer options and less competition.

Watch a video on the special enrollment periods for discontinued Medicare advantage plans

Managing Future Increases

While rising premiums are often unavoidable, beneficiaries can take steps to manage their costs. Reviewing your plan annually, comparing rates from other carriers, or switching to a different Medigap plan type may help reduce expenses. Working with a licensed Medicare agent ensures you understand your options and can make informed decisions based on your health needs and budget.

Medicare Supplement rate increases reflect broader trends in healthcare spending, demographics, and the insurance market. While the numbers may fluctuate, understanding the reasons behind them helps seniors plan ahead and make the most of their Medicare coverage.

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Medicare General Enrollment Period – Who Can Use It

Medicare offers several enrollment windows, and knowing which one applies to your situation is essential for avoiding coverage gaps and late-enrollment penalties. One key enrollment period; especially for those who missed their initial opportunity, is the Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP).

For those who didn’t sign up for Medicare when first eligible, the GEP may provide a second chance to enroll. Let’s break down what the GEP is, who qualifies to use it, and what to expect.

Understanding the Medicare General Enrollment Period

The Medicare General Enrollment Period runs every year from January 1 to March 31. It exists to help individuals who:

• Did not enroll in Medicare Part A and/or Part B during their Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), and
• Do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

During the GEP, eligible individuals can sign up for Medicare Part A (if they have to pay a premium for it), Medicare Part B, or both.

Watch a YouTube video on Medicare Enrollment Periods

Who Can Use the GEP

You may be able to use the Medicare General Enrollment Period if:

1. You turned 65 and missed your Initial Enrollment Period
2. You left employer coverage and did not enroll during a Special Enrollment Period
3. You declined Medicare when first eligible and later changed your mind
4. You were not automatically enrolled and never completed enrollment

You cannot use the GEP if

You already enrolled or declined Medicare during your IEP or SEP
You currently qualify or applied for a Special Enrollment Period (for example, due to loss of employer coverage)

When Coverage Begins After Enrolling

Unlike past years when coverage began in July, Medicare’s updated rules mean that coverage starts the first day of the month after you enroll during the GEP.

For example:

• Enroll in January – Coverage starts February 1
• Enroll in March – Coverage starts April 1

What About Late-Enrollment Penalties

If you’re enrolling during the GEP because you didn’t qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, be aware that late-enrollment penalties may apply:

• Part B penalty: 10% increase for each full 12-month period you didn’t enroll when eligible
• Part A penalty: Applies if you’re required to pay a premium and delayed enrollment

These penalties typicallylast for a lifetime, so enrolling as soon as you’re eligible; or using a SEP if qualified, is critical.

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Can You Enroll in Medicare Advantage or Part D After the GEP

Yes. After enrolling in Medicare during the GEP, you have a Medicare Advantage and Part D enrollment window from April 1 to June 30 each year.

During this time, you can:

• Join a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan
• Enroll in a standalone Part D prescription drug plan

Missing your Initial Enrollment Period doesn’t mean you’re out of options. The Medicare General Enrollment Period offers an important second chance to gain coverage, but acting promptly is key.

If you’re unsure whether you qualify for the GEP or a Special Enrollment Period, consider speaking with a licensed Medicare agent who can help you understand your enrollment options and avoid unnecessary penalties or coverage delays.

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UnitedHealthcare UCard Benefits 2026

UnitedHealthcare continues to innovate member experience for Medicare Advantage enrollees, and the 2026 UCard remains a standout feature. More than an ID card, the UCard is designed to simplify access to multiple plan benefits, making it easier for members to stay healthy, shop for everyday essentials, and manage their care in one place.

What Is the UCard

The UnitedHealthcare UCard combines functions that traditionally required multiple cards or portals. For eligible 2026 plans, it may serve as:

• Your medical ID card for doctor visits and to fill prescriptions at your local pharmacy
• An over-the-counter (OTC) benefit card
• A healthy food and grocery card (on select plans)
• Access your gym membership
• A rewards and incentive card
• A payment tool for certain utilities and transportation on qualifying plans

By integrating benefits, UnitedHealthcare aims to reduce confusion and help members use the services available to them more easily.

Accessing Your UCard Benefits

Members can check their UCard balance and benefits in a few convenient ways:

• UnitedHealthcare UCard Hub – Log in to view balances, track reward earnings, and see eligible spending categories.
• UHC Mobile App – Scan products, check approved retailers, and track benefit usage in real time.
• UCard Customer Support Line – Speak with a representative for help activating or understanding benefits. Members will find the customer support number on the back of their UCard.

Members can also review benefit details in their plan documents or contact a licensed Medicare agent for assistance.

Watch a YouTube video on the Discontinued Medicare Advantage Plan Special Enrollment Period

Where Can Members Use the UCard

UCard spending benefits can be used at thousands of participating retail and online locations. Depending on the plan and benefit type, members may access approved products and services at:

• Major supermarket chains
• National pharmacy chains
• Big-box retailers
• Convenience and dollar stores
• Local participating grocers
• Online retailers that partner with UHC

At checkout, members simply swipe the card like a debit card for qualified purchases. Items not covered will need a separate form of payment. For select plans offering utility or transportation assistance, members may use funds through approved vendors or billing arrangements.

Why the UCard Matters

The UCard simplifies Medicare Advantage benefits by eliminating multiple cards and making it easier for members to actually use what they’re entitled to. This system supports better health outcomes, encourages preventive care, and adds everyday convenience.

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