MEDICARE CHANGES FOR 2026
A Simple Guide for Seniors
✅ THE GOOD NEWS
💊Prescription Costs Are Dropping
- New $2,100 yearly cap on out-of-pocket drug costs (Medicare Part D).
- Some high-cost medications will have lower prices thanks to Medicare negotiations.
- Vaccines like shingles and flu shots are usually free.
- Insulin will still cost no more than $35/month.
- Medicare Part B Premiums are expected rise to $206.50, which is an 11.6% increase from the 2025 premium of $185. Higher-income individuals may pay more due to Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA), and the annual Part B deductible is also expected to rise to an estimated $288.
- Part D Deductible Increases Slightly You’ll pay up to $615 before coverage starts (up from $590 in 2025).
- Plans May Change Benefits Even if your plan name and price look the same, coverage and extras might change.
- Extra Perks Might Disappear Some plans may reduce or eliminate non-medical extras, such as food or ride programs.
- Doctor Networks Can Change Always check if your doctors and hospitals are still in your plan before re-enrolling.