Retirement and Social Security
Definition
The monthly amount most people pay for Medicare medical insurance; the standard premium for 2026 is $202.90.
What it means
Medicare Part B covers doctor services, outpatient care, preventive services and some equipment. For 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services set the standard monthly premium at $202.90 and the yearly deductible at $283. After the deductible, you usually pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for most services. People with higher incomes pay more through income-related monthly adjustment amounts. If you receive Social Security, the premium is usually deducted from your benefit. If you do not sign up when first eligible and do not have qualifying employer coverage, the premium can rise by 10% for each full 12-month period you could have had Part B, for as long as you have it. Medicare Savings Programs run by states can help people with limited income pay the premium.
Example
A retiree on the standard premium pays $202.90 x 12 = $2,434.80 for Part B in 2026. Someone who delayed enrollment by 2 full years without other coverage pays 20% more, about $243.48 a month.
Illustrative numbers only. Your situation will differ.