Medicare Part B premiums increase: this is what it will cost you in 2026
Medicare Part B premiums and deductible will increase in 2026. We tell you how much you'll pay and how these increases will affect your Social Security check
Seniors who rely on Medicare should prepare for a significant adjustment to their out-of-pocket expenses, as Part B premiums will see a notable increase in 2026. This increase will affect both monthly costs and the annual deductible, making it necessary to assess how these changes will impact the budget of those already living on a fixed income.
For many older workers, turning 65 finally means access to Medicare. This coverage has become a relief from the high cost of private health insurance. However, that doesn't mean it's all free. Part A is usually premium-free for those who have contributed enough, but Part B always has a monthly cost. And that amount is about to increase.
In 2026, the standard Part B premium will increase from $185 to $202.90. This represents an increase of $17.90 that most beneficiaries will have to pay each month. This is a significant increase for thousands of people who are already tightening their belts.
This figure only corresponds to the basic premium. Higher-income seniors should consider an additional charge called the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment (IRMAA), which further increases the monthly cost. IRMAAs apply to those above certain income levels. In 2026, single taxpayers with incomes above $109,000 and married couples filing jointly with incomes above $218,000 will have to pay these surcharges. It's important to remember that these adjustments don't just affect Part B. They also apply to Part D drug plans. However, there is no standard premium for Part D, so the final cost will depend on the plan each person chooses. In addition to the monthly premium, the annual Part B deductible will also increase. In 2026, it will rise from $257 to $283, adding an extra burden before Medicare begins covering outpatient services and doctor visits. And although the increases are not new,This combined adjustment will be especially noticeable.
Part A will also see changes in 2026, though many won't notice them immediately. There's no premium for most enrollees, but costs for hospitalization and skilled nursing facility stays will increase.
Additionally, supplemental plans like Medicare Advantage and Part D itself could also see adjustments. That's why it's crucial to review change notices sent by providers to know exactly how much premiums and co-payments will increase.
These increases will come just as beneficiaries receive their annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustment. The COLA will be 2.8%, raising the average benefit from $2,015 to $2,071. While this is an improvement, those who pay Medicare directly from their monthly check will see some of that increase diluted.
Even so, projections indicate that the COLA will be sufficient to prevent the Part B increase from completely eliminating the increase, although it will significantly reduce it.