Starting in 2026, Social Security and Medicare will see meaningful changes—some welcome, others costly. Here’s what to expect—and how you can prepare.

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Key Changes for 2026

 

Social Security

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• COLA (Cost-of-Living Adjustment): Projected increase of 2.6%–2.8%, translating to roughly +$50/month in benefits for the average retiree.  

• Full Retirement Age (FRA): Remains at 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later.

 

Medicare—Original (Parts A, B, and D)

 

• Part B Premium: Expected to rise from $185/mo in 2025 to $206.50/mo in 2026—an 11.6% increase.  

• Part B Deductible: Projected to increase from $257 to $288—a 12% jump.  

• Part D Base Premium: Estimated to grow from $36.78 to $38.99 (~6% increase).  

• Part D Deductible: Likely increasing from $590 to $615.  

• Part D Out-of-Pocket Cap (Catastrophic Threshold): Rising to $2,100 from $2,000—a $100 increase.  

 

Medicare Advantage (MA)

 

• Max Out-of-Pocket Limit: Expected to decrease slightly from $9,350 (2025) to $9,250 (2026).  

• Supplemental Benefits: Some MA plans may reduce extras like dental, transportation, or meals due to updated CMS rules.  

• Drug Price Negotiation (IRA): Select medications will have negotiated prices, lowering costs. Plus, expanded Prescription Payment Plan, insulin cap, and zero cost-sharing for adult vaccines continue in 2026.  

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IRMAA – Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts

 

• High-income retirees may face higher surcharges:

  • Part B IRMAA surcharges up ~1.04% average.  

  • Part D IRMAA surcharges rising >6%.  

  • Example brackets: A couple filing jointly with MAGI above certain thresholds (e.g. >$218K) could see total premiums rise accordingly.  

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Why This Matters

• That $50 COLA bump could be entirely offset by the Part B premium hike.  

• Higher plan costs and fewer benefits may mean paying more for less coverage.

• These changes make the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 – Dec 7) more important than ever.

• Strategic income planning (e.g., Roth conversions, charitable giving) could help reduce IRMAA in future years.

 

What to do next...

 

1. Let's set up a time to review. Compare 2026 premiums, deductibles, drug coverage, and benefits.

2. Enlist Help — I’m setting up Medicare reviews now, and keeping tabs on 2026 plan data releases.

3. Act Before AEP Ends — Secure your appointment early to avoid the late rush.

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[Schedule Your 2026 Medicare Review]

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Medicare and Social Security are shifting — but with the right guidance, you can stay ahead. I’m here to help you navigate these changes and find the best value for your coverage.

 

Warm Regards,

Nick Sullivan

P.S.

 

Annual Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7. Spaces fill fast — reach out now to secure your personalized review and protect yourself from rising costs.

 

Nick Sullivan 

Senior Benefit Advisors FL

Agency Principal

(386) 800-1992 (office-text)

(321) 213-2634 (cell-text)