CMS released 2026 premium and cost-sharing amounts for Medicare Parts A and B on Nov. 14, with significant increases across most categories.
The standard monthly Part B premium will increase to $202.90, up $17.90 from $185 in 2025, or a 9.7% jump. The annual deductible will rise to $283 from $257.
CMS attributed the increase to projected price changes and utilization patterns consistent with historical trends. The agency also noted that regulatory changes addressing skin substitute spending in the 2026 Physician Fee Schedule will reduce costs by 90%, averting an additional $11 monthly premium increase.
The Part A inpatient hospital deductible will reach $1,736 in 2026, up $60 from $1,676. Daily coinsurance for days 61-90 of hospitalization will increase to $434 (from $419), while skilled nursing facility coinsurance for days 21-100 will rise to $217 daily (from $209.50).
Approximately 99% of beneficiaries pay no Part A premium due to sufficient work history. For those purchasing coverage, monthly premiums will increase to $311 (reduced premium) or $565 (full premium).
High-income beneficiaries (8% of Medicare enrollees) will see adjusted premiums based on modified adjusted gross income thresholds that remain unchanged from 2025. Total Part B premiums for this group range from $284.10 to $689.90 monthly, depending on income level.
