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Medicare: monthly costs and enrollment timing

Official enrollment guidance. We do not sell insurance or submit applications.

Start with monthly premiums

Fewer credits mainly affect Part A premiums

The standard Part B premium is not tiered by credits. Select a year to see that year's costs.

2026 standard monthly premiums · Excludes penalties and income surcharges
Applicable work record Part APart B Monthly total
40 or more credits $0.00$202.90$202.90
30–39 credits $311.00$202.90$513.90
Fewer than 30 credits $565.00$202.90$767.90

Credits must meet Medicare-covered work requirements; enrollment eligibility still applies. A qualifying spouse's record may make Part A free or cheaper. Spouses cannot add their credits together.

Part B income-related surcharges (IRMAA) are separate. These figures are premiums only, excluding deductibles, copayments, Part D and supplemental insurance.

Official data reviewed: 2026-10-22 View 2026 CMS official amounts
Compare your premium and penalty scenarios Cost estimate
Paid Part A

Usually a 10% surcharge

The percentage usually does not increase for each delayed year; the duration is generally twice the delay. Premium-free Part A has no such penalty.

Part B

Usually 10% for each full year of delay

Generally payable while you have Part B. The dollar amount changes when premiums change, even with the same penalty percentage.

Being over 65 does not automatically mean a penalty applies. Verify initial eligibility, current employer coverage and Special Enrollment Periods. Exceptions such as Medicare Savings Programs may affect Part B penalties.
Medicare: official penalty guidance Explore premium assistance

2025 and 2026 are available. New years are added after official verification; older amounts are never substituted.

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