An Overview of Upcoming Medicare Part D Changes for 2026

Posted by Pattie Scoma
Estimated Reading Time 1 minute 9 seconds

Medicare beneficiaries can expect important updates in 2026 that may impact their coverage and out-of-pocket costs. Understanding these changes now can help you prepare and also ensure you’re making the most informed decisions during enrollment.

Part B Premium & Deductible

The standard Medicare Part B monthly premium is projected to increase from 2025. In addition, the Part B deductible may increase as well. These adjustments reflect the ongoing growth in healthcare costs and should be factored into your 2026 retirement and healthcare planning.

Part D Out-of-Pocket (OOP) Cap

One of the most significant changes is the continued implementation of the Inflation Reduction Act’s provisions on prescription drug costs. In 2026, the out-of-pocket cap for Part D will rise to $2,100, indexed up from $2,000 in 2025. This cap is a major benefit for beneficiaries who struggle with high drug costs, ensuring there’s a limit to how much you’ll spend in a year.

Part D Deductible

The maximum Part D deductible will increase slightly from 2025. While this means you may pay a bit more before your coverage kicks in, the out-of-pocket cap provides a safeguard against runaway expenses.

Base Beneficiary Cost

The base beneficiary cost for Part D may slightly increase in 2026. Your actual premium may vary depending on your plan, but this figure provides a benchmark for what you can expect across the program.

What This Means for You

Rising costs and deductibles highlight the importance of carefully reviewing your Medicare plan each year. Reviewing plans is essential to ensure you’re not overpaying and that your prescription needs are fully covered.

Reach out to one of our licensed insurance agents for more information.