Medicare Part B Costs in 2026: Premium, Deductible, and IRMAA
For 2026, the standard Medicare Part B premium is $202.90 per month and the annual Part B deductible is $283. Most people pay the standard premium, but if your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is above $109,000 (individual) or $218,000 (joint), you pay a higher amount called IRMAA. After you meet the deductible, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for most doctor services.
What is IRMAA?
IRMAA — the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount — is an extra charge added to your Part B (and Part D) premium if your income is above a threshold. For 2026, IRMAA begins when your MAGI is above $109,000 for an individual or $218,000 for a married couple filing jointly. Social Security uses your tax return from two years earlier to decide.
What you pay after the deductible
Once you have met the $283 deductible, you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount (coinsurance) for most physician services, outpatient care, and durable medical equipment. Original Medicare has no annual out-of-pocket maximum, which is why many people add Medigap or choose a Medicare Advantage plan that caps their costs.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my Part B premium higher than $202.90?
If your income is above the IRMAA threshold ($109,000 individual / $218,000 joint for 2026), Social Security adds a surcharge based on your tax return from two years ago. If you believe your income has dropped, you can request a reconsideration.
Can my Part B premium be reduced?
Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a "Part B give-back" that pays part of your premium, and Medicare Savings Programs can cover the premium entirely if you qualify based on income and assets.
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Medicare Login Guide is an independent resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, or any government agency. This article is for general information only — confirm current figures and your specific options at medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.