Medicare Part B in 2026: What to Expect
Medicare beneficiaries will see several important changes to Medicare Part B 2026. Costs are rising again, and many retirees will feel the impact. Here is a simple breakdown of what’s changing and why it matters.
Key Cost Changes for 2026
The standard monthly Part B premium increases to $202.90 in 2026. This is a noticeable jump from the 2025 premium of $185.00. The annual deductible also rises. It increases to $283, up from $257 in 2025.
After you meet the deductible, you still pay 20% coinsurance for most Part B services. This includes doctor visits, outpatient care, therapy, lab work, and durable medical equipment. These basic cost-sharing rules do not change.
Why These Costs Are Going Up
Medicare adjusts Part B premiums each year. These changes reflect the rising cost of healthcare. More people are using outpatient services. Physician-administered drugs also continue to drive spending.
CMS noted that the increase could have been even higher. Cost-saving steps helped reduce the size of the jump. One example is new rules designed to slow spending on certain high-priced items, such as skin substitutes. Still, higher medical costs overall mean higher premiums for beneficiaries.
Click here to watch our YouTube video on Medicare Part B IRMA and IEP, SEP rules
What This Means for You
Higher premiums and a higher deductible mean higher yearly expenses. The extra $18 per month adds up. Over the course of a year, it is more than $200. This does not include the out-of-pocket costs you may pay when you receive care.
Budgeting becomes even more important in 2026. If you expect frequent doctor visits or outpatient treatments, you may face additional costs throughout the year.
For many people, supplemental coverage can help. Medigap plans can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare Advantage may also offer lower upfront costs. However, each option has different benefits and limits. It is important to compare them carefully.
Check Your Income Level
Some people will pay more than the standard premium. If your income is above certain thresholds, you may owe an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). This surcharge increases your monthly cost. It is based on your tax return from two years prior.
Medicare Part B costs will increase again in 2026. These changes affect almost every beneficiary. Reviewing your coverage now can help you avoid surprises later. Look at your budget, your health needs, and your income level. Then decide whether Original Medicare alone is enough or if a supplemental option makes sense for you.
Leave a Comment