Medicare costs like premiums, deductibles, and copays generally change every year. But what does this mean for your broader retirement plan? Well, even small adjustments can have a large impact on your future financial decisions.

In this week’s Money Wisdom Question Series, Heath Grossman, CFP® shares the biggest Medicare changes coming in 2026 and the key considerations you can’t afford to miss.

1. Most Costs Will Increase

In 2026, the standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B will increase from $185 a month to $202.90 a month. But remember, if your taxable income is above certain limits, your premiums will be higher. Also expected to rise are Part B deductibles and Part D deductibles. These increases are not out of the ordinary as they follow typical inflation-based metrics.

2. Part D’s Out-Of-Pocket Threshold Is Increasing

For Medicare Part D enrollees, you will pay no more than $2,100 out-of-pocket for covered prescription drugs in 2026. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 instituted a cap on out-of-pocket drug costs. This new threshold is a $100 increase from $2,000 in 2025.

3. Some Drug Prices Are Expected to Fall

The IRA also allows Medicare to negotiate prices for its most costly drugs. The initial set of negotiated drug prices will take effect in 2026. According to projections, Medicare beneficiaries will see about $1.5 billion in reduced out-of-pocket costs each year.

Key Considerations When Planning for Medicare

Here are some things to remember when applying these changes to your financial plan. First, your premiums depend on your taxable income. This can affect where you choose to withdraw income and whether Roth conversions make sense. Second, you can use health savings account (HSA) funds to pay Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D premiums.

Finally, remember that Medicare generally does not cover most long-term care services. But by working with a financial professional, you can create a plan to protect your assets and peace of mind from rising healthcare costs.