Medicare premiums and deductibles have increased in 2026, with the standard Medicare Part B premium rising to $202.90 per month and the annual deductible increasing to $283.
Enrolling in Medicare during the initial seven-month window, which starts three months prior to your 65th birthday and concludes three months following, can help you avoid higher rates and a lapse in health insurance coverage.
During this window, beneficiaries can enroll in Medicare Parts A and B, switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another, return to Original Medicare, and add a Part D prescription drug plan.
If you miss the initial enrollment window, you may be subject to lifetime Medicare premium increases, including a 10% premium surcharge for every 12 months of missed coverage.
Avoid these penalties by signing up during the special enrollment period, provided you're still employed and covered by a qualifying group health plan.
