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Brace for Impact: Major Medicare Changes in 2026 You Can't Afford to Miss
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Brace for Impact: Major Medicare Changes in 2026 You Can't Afford to Miss

Written by:
Michael Lee
,
Written by:
Written by:
Farther

As we approach 2026, significant changes to Medicare are on the horizon, potentially affecting your healthcare costs and coverage options. Understanding these changes is crucial to ensuring you make informed decisions about your healthcare.

Key Medicare Changes for 2026‍

Part D Prescription Drug Coverage‍

  • Out-of-Pocket Cap: The annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs is increasing from $2,000 in 2025 to $2,100 in 2026.

  • Deductible: The maximum annual Part D deductible is rising to $615, up from $590 in 2025.

  • Prescription Payment Plan: Enrollees who used the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan in 2025 will be automatically re-enrolled for 2026, though they can opt out.

  • Negotiated Drug Prices: The first set of drug prices, negotiated by the government, will become available in 2026 for 10 specific Part D drugs.

Medicare Advantage Plans‍

  • Plan Availability: UnitedHealth will stop operating in 109 counties, affecting about 180,000 people.

  • Premiums: Average Medicare Advantage premiums are decreasing slightly for 2026. The average premium in 2025 is $13.32/month for Medicare Advantage plans with integrated Part D coverage (MA-PD), and that’s decreasing to an average of $11.50/month in 2026.

  • Out-of-Pocket Maximum: The Medicare Advantage maximum out-of-pocket limit will decrease slightly to $9,250 in 2026.

Part B and Part A Premiums

  • Part A Premium: For enrollees who pay premiums for Medicare Part A, the premiums are projected to increase slightly for 2026. Depending on how much work history the person has, the 2026 Part A premiums are projected to be either $310/month or $563/month, up from $285/month or $518/month in 2025.

  • Part B Premium: The projected standard premium for 2026 is $206.50/month, up from $185.00 in 2025.

  • Part B Deductible: The projected deductible for 2026 is $288, up from $257 in 2025.

What This Means for You

These changes could lead to higher out-of-pocket costs and premiums for many Medicare beneficiaries. It's essential to review your current plan and consider your options for 2026.

‍Need Assistance Navigating These Changes?

The Farther Focus team is here to help you understand these changes and make informed decisions about your Medicare coverage. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure you're prepared for 2026.

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Important Disclosures

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This document is for informational purposes only. It is educational in nature and not designed to be taken as advice or a recommendation for any specific investment product, strategy, plan feature or other purpose in any jurisdiction, nor is it a commitment from Farther Financial Advisors, LLC or any of its subsidiaries or related entities to participate in any of the transactions mentioned herein. All sources of information used are deemed reliable and accurate at the time of printing. Advisory services are provided by Farther Finance Advisors LLC, an SEC-registered investment advisor. Investing in securities involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Before investing, consider your investment objectives, as well as Farther Finance Advisors LLC’s fees and expenses. Farther Finance Advisors, LLC does not provide tax or legal advice; please consult your tax and legal professionals for guidance on these matters.

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