Medicare beneficiaries will see several important changes in 2026. The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B increases to $202.90, up 9.7% from 2025’s $185 premium. The annual Part B deductible also rises to $283, compared to $257 in 2025. These increases reflect rising healthcare costs and will impact most Medicare beneficiaries’ budgets.

On the positive side, Medicare continues expanding mental health coverage in 2026. Beneficiaries maintain access to intensive outpatient program services through hospitals, community mental health centers, and similar facilities, ensuring continued support for those needing mental health treatment.

The Extra Help program remains fully expanded in 2026, providing crucial assistance to people with limited income. Eligible individuals receive the full low-income subsidy, significantly reducing their prescription drug costs compared to previous years.

The $2,000 annual out-of-pocket cap for Part D prescription drug costs that began in 2025 continues protecting beneficiaries in 2026.