Part B Premium Rises to $202.90

Each year, Medicare's costs are adjusted, and 2026 brought an increase that many retirees noticed right away in their Social Security checks. The standard Part B premium went up, and so did the deductible. Here is what changed and what you can do about it.

The 2026 numbers Medicare Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and many preventive services. For 2026: • The standard monthly Part B premium is $202.90, an increase of $17.90 from $185 in 2025. • The annual Part B deductible is $283, up $26 from $257 in 2025.

For most retirees, the Part B premium is deducted directly from their Social Security payment, which is why the higher premium can make this year's cost-of-living raise feel smaller than expected.

A rule that protects many retirees There is an important protection to know about, sometimes called the "hold harmless" provision. By law, the Part B premium increase for many current enrollees cannot be larger than the dollar amount of their Social Security cost-of-living raise. This helps ensure that a premium hike does not actually reduce someone's net Social Security check.

Because the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment was 2.8%, most people's raise was large enough to absorb the premium increase, though it did take a bite out of it.

Higher earners pay more Not everyone pays the standard premium. People with higher incomes pay an extra amount called IRMAA, the income-related monthly adjustment amount. In 2026, this surcharge generally applies to individuals with income above about $109,000, and it is added to both Part B and Part D premiums.

IRMAA is based on your tax return from two years earlier, so a one-time spike in income can affect you later. If your income dropped because of a life change such as retirement, you may be able to request a review.

What this means for you You cannot change Medicare's premiums, but you can manage your overall costs: • Review your full coverage, including any Medicare Supplement or Part D plan, to be sure you are not overpaying for benefits you do not use. • Use your preventive benefits, many of which are covered at no cost and can help you avoid larger expenses later. • Plan your income with IRMAA in mind, especially around retirement account withdrawals.

A yearly review, especially before Open Enrollment in the fall, is one of the best ways to keep your costs in check.

How to actually lower your Medicare costs You cannot control the premiums Medicare sets, but several choices are within your control. Reviewing your full coverage each year, your Part D plan, any Medicare Supplement, and any extra benefits, helps ensure you are not paying for things you do not use or missing a plan that fits better. Programs such as Extra Help (for Part D) and Medicare Savings Programs can lower costs for those who qualify based on income, and many people who are eligible never apply.

Mark your calendar for the fall The main chance to change your coverage is Medicare's Open Enrollment, October 15 to December 7. Decisions made then generally take effect January 1. Preparing a little ahead of time, keeping your medication list current and noting any frustrations with this year's plan, makes that review far easier and more productive when the time comes.

The bottom line Medicare's costs nudge up most years, and 2026 is no exception. You cannot change the premium, but you can make sure every dollar you spend on coverage is working for you. A yearly review, plus a check on whether you qualify for cost-saving programs, is the most reliable way to keep your Medicare spending under control.

Quick answers • What is the 2026 Medicare Part B premium? The standard premium is $202.90 a month, up $17.90 from 2025, with an annual deductible of $283. • Will everyone pay the same premium? No. Higher-income enrollees pay an added amount called IRMAA, and some lower-income people qualify for help with their costs.

Sources • CMS — 2026 Medicare Part B Premiums and Deductibles • Kiplinger — What You Will Pay for Medicare in 2026