2026 Medicare Part B Costs: What to Expect
Medicare beneficiaries should prepare for higher Medicare Part B costs in 2026. Medicare Part B covers outpatient care such as doctor visits, lab work, preventive screenings, and durable medical equipment. While the official 2026 numbers will be officially released later in 2025, projections show some of the steepest increases in recent years for 2026 Medicare Part B costs.
Projected Premium & Deductible
- The 2025 standard Part B premium is $185/month. Estimates suggest it could rise to about $206.50/month in 2026; an increase of more than 11%.
- The Part B deductible, currently $257, may increase to around $288. After meeting the deductible, beneficiaries generally pay 20% of Medicare-approved amounts for most services.
Income-Related Surcharges (IRMAA)
Higher-income beneficiaries pay more through the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). These surcharges are based on tax returns from two years prior (2024 income for 2026 premiums). Depending on income, premiums could rise from the base $206.50 up to more than $700 per month. Beneficiaries experiencing major life changes such as retirement can appeal their IRMAA through Social Security.
Click here to watch our YouTube video on Medicare Part B IRMA and IEP, SEP rules
Why Costs Are Rising
Several factors drive these increases:
- Rising healthcare costs and higher use of outpatient services
- The aging U.S. population requiring more care
- Inflation adjustments to both premiums and income brackets
Preparing for 2026
- Budget ahead using the projected $206.50 premium and higher deductible.
- Consider supplemental coverage. Medigap policies and Medicare Advantage plans may reduce out-of-pocket costs.
- Manage income carefully. Since IRMAA is tied to taxable income, strategies such as Roth conversions or adjusting withdrawals may help avoid higher surcharges.
- Stay informed. CMS will announce final 2026 premiums and deductibles in late 2025, so review your plan options during Medicare’s open enrollment period.
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Final Thoughts
If these projections hold, 2026 Medicare Part B costs will rise significantly, with some retirees seeing most of their Social Security COLA consumed by the higher premium. The good news is that planning now; whether through financial adjustments or reviewing Medicare coverage, can help soften the impact.