Medicare
Medicare Part B
Medicare Part B charges a monthly premium — $202.90 in 2026 for most beneficiaries — and covers the outpatient medical services that Part A does not.
Last reviewed: May 2026 · Editorial methodology
Definition
Medicare Part B is the outpatient medical insurance component of Original Medicare. It covers physician visits, outpatient hospital services, preventive care (including an annual wellness visit and many screenings at no cost-sharing), ambulance services, mental health outpatient care, durable medical equipment (DME), and certain home health services. The standard 2026 Part B monthly premium is $202.90, though higher-income beneficiaries pay more through the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). The 2026 annual Part B deductible is $283, after which Medicare typically pays 80% of approved amounts and the beneficiary pays the remaining 20% coinsurance with no cap — a significant financial exposure without supplemental coverage. Part B enrollment is automatic for those receiving Social Security, but those not yet collecting must actively enroll during their Initial Enrollment Period to avoid late enrollment penalties. Delaying Part B enrollment without qualifying employer coverage results in a 10% premium surcharge for each 12-month period of delay, which is permanent.
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Cover Forge USA Editorial Team
Editorial Lead
This article was researched and written by the Cover Forge USA editorial team against federal sources (NAIC, CMS, FEMA, DOL, SSA, state DOIs) and standard policy forms. Bylines organize content by topic — they do not assert individual licensure. See our editorial-policy for details.
Reviewed 2026-06-14
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