Medicare IRMAA 2026: What You Need to Know About Higher Part B & D Surcharges

Starting in 2026, many Medicare beneficiaries will face higher IRMAA surcharges on their Part B and Part D premiums.

With both income brackets and surcharges rising, retirees could pay significantly more if they aren’t prepared.

 

2026 IRMAA Income Thresholds

• Single filers: $109,000+

• Joint filers: $218,000+

• Top bracket frozen until 2028—high earners may face larger penalties
   

Estimated Premium Costs

• Part B: $284–$689/month

• Part D: $14–$91/month
  (Surcharges added to standard premiums)

Remember: IRMAA is based on modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) from two years prior, so 2026 costs depend on 2024 income.

 

How IRMAA Works

• There are five income tiers; crossing a tier triggers the full surcharge

• MAGI includes:

  • Adjusted gross income (AGI)

  • Tax-exempt interest (like municipal bonds)

  • Certain U.S. savings bond and territory income

Even small increases in income can push retirees into higher surcharges.

 

Strategies to Reduce IRMAA Surcharges

• Lower taxable income in the years before Medicare enrollment

• Withdraw from Roth IRAs, which don’t count toward MAGI

• Use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) to reduce RMDs

• Time financial moves (property sales, Roth conversions) carefully

• Appeal IRMAA with Form SSA-44 for major life changes like retirement, divorce, or spouse’s death

 

Why Planning Matters

• Missing thresholds can add thousands of dollars in Medicare costs annually

• Surcharges for 2026 are rising between 3–9%, making careful income planning critical

• Early action helps retirees control costs and avoid surprises

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