Many seniors who are 65 and older get health coverage through Medicare. And if you've been a Medicare enrollee for quite some time, there are certain aspects of the program you may be used to.
But Medicare's rules and costs can change from one year to the next. Here are a few 2026 updates you need to be aware of.
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1. Medicare Part B now costs more
It's not an unusual thing for Medicare Part B premiums to rise from one year to the next. But this year, the standard monthly Part B premium is up significantly compared to last year. It's currently $202.90 per month, compared to $185 a month in 2025.
If you're receiving Social Security benefits, your Part B premiums will be paid directly out of those monthly checks. But that means you're unlikely to see as much of a boost out of this year's Social Security cost-of-living adjustment, which was only 2.8%.
In addition to higher Part B premiums, the annual deductible for Part B rose in 2026. It's now $283, compared to $257 last year.
2. A hospital stay could result in a larger bill
Most Medicare enrollees do not pay a premium for Part A, which covers hospital care. But there are numerous costs associated with Part A when you require a hospital stay.
This year, the inpatient hospital deductible under Part A is $1,736, up from $1,676 last year. You'll also pay more for daily hospital coinsurance this year -- $434 a day, as opposed to $419 last year, for your 61st through 90th day in the hospital.
If you need to remain in the hospital beyond 90 days, the cost of using lifetime reserve days is higher, too. This year, that daily rate is $868, compared to $838 last year.
3. IRMAAs kick in at slightly higher incomes
While Medicare Part B has a standard monthly premium, higher earners commonly pay more for it thanks to the program's income-related monthly adjustment amounts, or IRMAAs. IRMAAs only affect about 8% of seniors with Medicare Part B, but they could drive premium costs up substantially.
In 2025, IRMAAs started to kick in for single tax-filers with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) above $106,000 and joint filers with a MAGI above $212,000. In 2026, IRMAAs apply to single tax-filers with a MAGI above $109,000 and joint filers with a MAGI above $218,000.
Be aware of key changes
Clearly, Medicare underwent a number of big changes that took effect at the start of the year. It's important to know what costs to account for so your retirement budget isn't thrown out of whack.
In addition to these changes, it's important to review your Medicare Advantage or Part D drug plan to see what new rules or costs apply in 2026. You can review your plan's annual notice of change or contact your plan administrator for more information.
