08/26/2026
Notice your Social Security check got smaller this year? Medicare is probably why.
The standard Medicare Part B premium jumped from $185.00/month in 2025 to $202.90/month in 2026 — that's $17.90 more coming out of your Social Security check every month.
But some people are paying even more because of something called IRMAA. Here's where it gets confusing: Medicare isn't looking at what you're making right now — it's looking at your 2024 tax return. So if you were working and earning well in 2024 but have since retired, you could be stuck paying a higher premium based on income you're no longer making.
The good news? If you've retired, cut your hours, or had another qualifying life event, you may be able to have Social Security take another look.
Curious what your Medicare premium is likely to be in 2026? Use our free IRMAA calculator: https://www.aeinsurancefl.com/tools/irmaa-calculator
Not affiliated with or endorsed by Medicare or any government agency. Figures shown are for 2026 and subject to change.