Have you ever opened a Medicare bill and wondered, Why am I paying this amount? You’re not alone. Medicare is essential, but it isn’t free. Each part comes with a monthly premium, and those premiums change every year.

When you understand what these premiums are and how they work, you can plan better, avoid surprises, and choose coverage with confidence. Here’s a clear and simple look at what you’ll pay in 2026.

What Are Medicare Premiums?

A premium is the amount you pay each month to keep your Medicare coverage active—similar to a membership fee. You pay this amount whether you use any services that month or not.

You may have premiums for:

  • Part A – Hospital insurance
  • Part B – Medical insurance
  • Part C – Medicare Advantage plans
  • Part D – Prescription drug plans
  • Medigap – Supplemental coverage

Medicare Part A Premiums in 2026

Most people pay $0 for Part A because they or a spouse worked at least 10 years and paid Medicare taxes.

If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, you’ll pay:

  • $311 per month, or
  • $565 per month, depending on your work history.

Medicare Part B Premiums in 2026

Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical equipment.

The standard Part B premium for 2026 is:

  • $202.90 per month

Higher-income individuals may pay more, based on their 2024 tax return. If your income has recently dropped because of retirement, divorce, or another major change, you can ask Social Security to review your premium.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) Premiums in 2026

Part C premiums vary because plans are offered by private insurance companies.

Here’s what to expect:

  • Many plans still offer $0 premiums, depending on your area.
  • Other plans charge a premium for added benefits.
  • You must still pay your Part B premium.
  • Some plans reduce part of your Part B premium (a “giveback”).

Review your plan every fall to stay ahead of changes.

Medicare Part D Premiums in 2026

Part D premiums vary by plan. Some plans offer low monthly premiums, while others cost more. Higher-income individuals may pay an additional monthly amount.

Important Update About Drug Costs

Medicare now limits how much you can spend out-of-pocket each year on covered prescriptions.

Here’s how the cap works:

  • In 2025, Medicare introduced a $2,000 annual limit.
  • In 2026, this limit increases to $2,100.

Once you reach $2,100 in out-of-pocket spending for covered drugs in 2026, you pay $0 for the rest of the year.

This protection helps reduce financial stress and makes prescription spending more predictable. It does not change your monthly premium—it simply limits your total yearly costs.

Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Premiums in 2026

Medigap helps cover out-of-pocket costs in Original Medicare. Premiums vary based on:

  • Your age
  • Where you live
  • The plan letter
  • The insurance company

Premiums can range from low-cost high-deductible options to several hundred dollars per month. You must continue paying your Part B premium to keep your Medigap policy.

Learn more about Medicare costs.

How Do You Pay Medicare Premiums?

Paying premiums is easy once you know your options. You can pay Medicare premiums online, through Medicare Easy Pay, by mail, or have them deducted from your Social Security benefits. Learn more about paying Medicare premiums.

Other payment options

  • Medicare Easy Pay – automatic bank withdrawals
  • Online bill pay through your bank
  • Check or money order by mail

Help Is Available

If you’re struggling to afford your premiums, you may qualify for help:

Never ignore a Medicare premium bill—support is available.

Want help making confident Medicare choices?

Join friendly, easy-to-follow classes on the GetSetUp Medicare Learning Hub.