Medicare Part B Premiums to Rise in 2026; High-Earners Face

Medicare Part B Premiums to Rise in 2026; High-Earners Face Steep Surcharges

Apr 10, 2026 08:29 UTC

Long term

Medicare Part B premiums are set to increase for 2026, with the standard monthly cost rising to $202.90. This represents a $17.90 increase over the 2025 premium of $185. While the standard rate applies to most enrollees, high-income beneficiaries are subject to Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAAs). These surcharges are based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) from two years prior, significantly increasing the cost of outpatient care for wealthier retirees. For single tax-filers, those with a MAGI between $109,000 and $137,000 will face an $81.20 surcharge, bringing their monthly total to $284.10. At the highest tier, individuals earning $500,000 or more will be subject to a $487 surcharge, resulting in a total monthly premium of $689.90. To mitigate these costs, retirees often utilize strategic financial planning, such as converting traditional IRA or 401(k) savings to a Roth account before enrolling in Medicare, as Roth withdrawals do not count toward MAGI. However, because IRMAAs are calculated on a two-year lag, the timing of these conversions is critical to avoid unintended premium spikes in subsequent years.

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Medicare Part B Premiums to Rise in 2026; High-Earners Face Steep Surcharges

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