What Retirees Should Know About IRMAA and 2026 Medicare Premiums.
Posted in Medicare on October 26, 2025 last updated on October 26, 2025
Learn how IRMAA may affect your 2026 Medicare Part B & Part D premiums, and what income limits could change for retirees and working seniors.
By Allied Comprehensive Insurance Strategies, LLC (ACIS)
When it comes to Medicare, most people know they’ll pay a monthly premium for Part B (medical coverage). But what some don’t realize is that their premium can change based on income. That adjustment is called the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) — and it can affect both Part B and Part D (prescription drug) premiums.
Let’s break it down in plain language so you’ll know what to expect for 2026.
🔍 What Is IRMAA?
IRMAA is an income-based surcharge added to your standard Medicare premium if your income exceeds certain thresholds set each year by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
- The SSA reviews your tax return from two years prior (so 2026 premiums are based on your 2024 income).
- If your income is above the limit, you’ll pay an adjusted premium directly to Medicare, deducted from your Social Security check if you’re receiving benefits, or billed separately if you’re not.
💰 2026 Medicare Premium Projections
While CMS will release the final 2026 figures later this year, the Medicare Trustees’ report projects the standard Part B premium at about $206.50 per month.
If your income stays at or below these projected thresholds, you’ll pay the standard premium:
- Individuals: ≤ $109,000
- Married couples filing jointly: ≤ $218,000
If your income is higher, IRMAA brackets apply — increasing your premium gradually based on your income range.
(For reference, the 2025 standard premium is $185, so the projected increase for 2026 is modest but noticeable.)
🧾 What Counts as “Income”?
SSA uses your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) — your adjusted gross income plus tax-exempt interest and certain deductions.
Common sources that can raise MAGI include:
- Wages and self-employment income
- Pensions or retirement distributions
- Capital gains
- Tax-exempt interest (like municipal bonds)
🧭 Can You Appeal an IRMAA Decision?
Yes! If your income has decreased since your last tax return — perhaps due to retirement, job loss, or another life event — you can file a Request for Reconsideration (Form SSA-44) to appeal your IRMAA determination.
You can also visit Medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs for more details on how IRMAA and premiums are calculated.
💬 ACIS Perspective
At ACIS, we know Medicare planning doesn’t stop at choosing the right plan — it’s also about understanding how income impacts your costs.
Whether you’re approaching age 65, working past it, or already enrolled, we help you plan strategically so your healthcare and retirement dollars stretch further.
If you’re unsure whether IRMAA might affect you, let’s review your situation together. A quick conversation can help you anticipate costs and explore smart options for managing income levels before you retire.
Allied Comprehensive Insurance Strategies, LLC
📞 888-269-4449 | 🌐 coveredbyacis.com
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