"The 2026 Medicare Part B premium landed at $202.90 per month, up from $185.00 in 2025, a 9.7% increase that landed right on top of a 2.8% Social Security cost-of-living adjustment."
"Three forces are pushing costs higher: surging oil prices, potential tariff-driven cost increases on medical supplies, and unresolved overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans adding $82 billion in extra Part B costs."
"National healthcare spending has risen every single month since January 2025, climbing from $3,432.2 billion to $3,701.9 billion by January 2026, giving CMS little room to hold premiums flat."
The 2026 Medicare Part B premium rose to $202.90, a 9.7% increase from 2025. This increase offsets part of the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment, leaving retirees with minimal net gain. The premium is determined by projected Medicare spending and is influenced by rising oil prices, potential tariff increases, and unresolved overpayments to Medicare Advantage plans. National healthcare spending has consistently increased, limiting the ability to keep premiums stable. Retirees facing income drops can request a premium reduction through SSA Form SSA-44.
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