Felisa Davis-Holmes

Part B Premiums >$200
In 2026, the standard Medicare Part B premium reached $202.90 monthly, crossing $200 for the first time.
Because Part B is often deducted from Social Security, premium hikes immediately shrink retirees’ monthly take-home benefits.
Other 2026 Medicare costs also ↑: Part B deductible $283; Part A hospital deductible $1,736 per stay; higher coinsurance.
Higher-income retirees face income-related surcharges, pushing monthly Part B premiums above standard, ranging $284.10-$689.90.
Social Security’s avg. ~$56 monthly COLA was partly offset as Part B premiums ↑$17.90, limiting net gains.
I’m seeing Medicare costs take a bigger bite out of retirement income, especially when premiums are deducted from Social Security. Even small increases can reduce take-home benefits and strain fixed budgets over time.

Medicare Part B Premiums Exceed $200

Avoid Medicare late penalties
Medicare’s Initial Enrollment Period lasts 7 mo, starting 3 mo before 65 and ending 3 mo after.
Missing Parts B and D deadlines can trigger lifelong penalties: premiums cost 10% more per 12 mo delayed.
Example: enrolling at 68 means 30% penalty
Monthly premium: $241.89 → $314.46
Yearly extra: $870.84
12-yr extra: $10,450
Some exemptions can avoid penalties, including certain employer coverage, serious illness, VA coverage, Medicaid, or creditable drug coverage.
If you miss the initial window, apply during the General Enrollment Period: Jan. 1 through March 31.
I’m seeing a common retirement planning pitfall: missing Medicare enrollment can create lasting extra costs. The key is knowing the enrollment windows, understanding exceptions, and acting quickly if you miss the first deadline.