Medicare Cost Increases in 2026: Key Premium and Deductible Changes

Medicare costs are set to increase in 2026, impacting retirees' healthcare expenses and budgeting considerations. The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B will rise to $202.90, up $17.90 from 2025, which will offset much of the 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) Social Security recipients receive. Higher-income enrollees will also face increased income-related monthly adjustment amounts (IRMAAs), applicable to those with incomes over $109,000 for singles and $218,000 for joint filers. The Medicare Part B annual deductible will increase by $26 to $283, requiring enrollees to pay more before coverage begins. For hospital stays under Medicare Part A, the inpatient deductible will rise to $1,736, with daily coinsurance for days 61 through 90 increasing from $419 to $434. Additionally, daily coinsurance for lifetime reserve days will increase from $838 to $868 per day. These rising costs highlight the importance for Medicare recipients to carefully budget for upcoming healthcare expenses, including potential increases in Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Overall, these changes reflect ongoing adjustments to Medicare fees and deductibles, affecting coverage affordability and financial planning for retirees.