Medicare Costs by Plan Type
See exactly what you'll pay with each Medicare option in 2026. Compare premiums, deductibles, copays, and total out-of-pocket costs side by side.
What You'll Pay: Three Scenarios
Your total Medicare costs depend on which coverage path you choose. Here's a realistic breakdown of each option:
Original Medicare Only
High RiskNo Supplemental Coverage
Part B premium only
$202.90
Out-of-pocket maximum
No limit
Original Medicare ++ Medigap G ++ Part D
Low RiskMost Comprehensive Option
Part B + Medigap + Part D
$361 – $481
Part B deductible only
~$283
Medicare Advantage (Part C)
Medium RiskAll-in-one Alternative
Part B + MA premium
$202.90 – $335
In-network OOP max
$9,250
6 Ways to Lower Your Medicare Costs
Smart strategies that can save you hundreds or thousands per year:
Compare Medigap Rates Annually
The same Plan G can cost 40% more from one company vs. another. Always compare at least 3-5 carriers. Rates vary by company, age, gender, and ZIP code.
Check for Medicare Savings Programs
If your income is below $1,715/month (single), you may qualify for QMB, SLMB, or QI programs that pay your Part B premium and sometimes deductibles and coinsurance.
Apply for Extra Help (Part D)
If your income is below $22,590/year (single), you may qualify for Extra Help that covers Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays. This saves an average of $5,300/year.
Review Part D Plans Every Year
Formularies and premiums change annually. A plan that was cheapest last year may not be this year. Use Medicare.gov's Plan Finder tool during AEP (Oct 15 – Dec 7).
Avoid the Part D Late Penalty
Going 63+ days without creditable drug coverage triggers a permanent penalty of ~1% per month. Even if you don't take medications now, enroll in a low-cost Part D plan.
Consider High-Deductible Plan G
If you're healthy, HD Plan G costs $40-80/month vs. $130-250 for regular Plan G. You'll pay a $2,950 deductible, but the premium savings often exceed the deductible risk.
2026 IRMAA Surcharges
Higher-income beneficiaries pay more for Part B and Part D. These surcharges are based on your tax return from 2 years ago:
| Income (Single / Married) | Part B Premium | Part D Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ $109,000 / $218,000 | $202.90 | $0.00 |
| > $109,000 and < $137,000 / > $218,000 and < $274,000 | $284.10 | $14.50 |
| > $137,000 and < $171,000 / > $274,000 and < $342,000 | $405.80 | $37.50 |
| > $171,000 and < $205,000 / > $342,000 and < $410,000 | $527.50 | $60.40 |
| > $205,000 and < $500,000 / > $410,000 and < $750,000 | $649.20 | $83.30 |
| > $500,000 / > $750,000 | $689.90 | $91.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Get a Personalized Cost Estimate
Your actual Medicare costs depend on your location, health, medications, and income. Our licensed agents can give you a personalized cost breakdown at no charge.