Start with the whole picture
Three kinds of costs to understand.
Your budget depends on the coverage you choose and the care you use. Start with monthly premiums, then look at deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Include prescriptions and services your coverage does not pay for.
Most people do not pay a Part A premium because of their or a spouse’s work history. Part B generally has a monthly premium. Higher income can mean an additional amount.
2026 costs at a glance.
Standard Part B premium
$202.90Per month in 2026. Higher income can mean a higher premium.
Part B deductible
$283Annual deductible in 2026. Other cost sharing may apply.
The 2026 Part D out-of-pocket limit for covered drugs is $2,100. Premiums are separate.
Source: Medicare.gov: Medicare costs.
Planning for 2027
Keep the plan years separate.
2027 Part D maximum deductible
$700A plan may have a lower deductible or apply it differently by drug tier.
2027 Part D out-of-pocket cap
$2,400For covered Part D drugs. Premiums do not count toward this cap.
These are drug coverage figures, not your total medical spending limit. Check a plan’s documents for its specific costs and coverage rules.
Source: CMS 2027 final rate announcement, Table V-2 (page 95). Figures checked against the source on October 14, 2026. Part B figures above are explicitly for 2026.
Ask what help may be available.
Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help may reduce costs if you qualify. Eligibility and application rules vary. A state assistance program or Social Security can help you check your next step.
Explore help with costsCompare a year, not just a premium.
Think through a typical year and a year with more care. Consider your doctors, prescriptions, pharmacy, travel, and what you could afford if unexpected treatment were needed.
Compare the main coverage routesRelated guidance