Understanding Monthly Premiums, IRMAA Surcharges, and Total Part B Expenses

How Much Does Medicare Part B Cost?

Understanding Medicare Part B costs including monthly premiums, IRMAA surcharges, and how income affects your total Part B expenses.

Mark Annese
Mark AnneseMarch 8, 20235 min read

Definition of Medicare Part B

Medicare Part B is medical insurance that covers medically necessary services and supplies, such as doctor visits, outpatient care, and preventive services. It is part of the federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 or older.

Understanding the cost of Medicare Part B is essential for retirement planning, as it represents a significant ongoing healthcare expense. Learn about what Part B covers in detail.

Standard Medicare Part B Cost

The cost of Medicare Part B varies depending on your income and other factors. Most beneficiaries pay a standard monthly premium set annually by CMS.

Recent Part B Premiums

  • 2024: $174.70/month
  • 2023: $164.90/month
  • 2022: $170.10/month

Higher-income beneficiaries pay additional IRMAA surcharges that can significantly increase the monthly cost. View current IRMAA brackets for surcharge details.

How Part B Premiums Are Paid

Most Medicare beneficiaries have their Part B premium automatically deducted from their Social Security benefit check. For those not yet receiving Social Security, Medicare sends quarterly bills.

Understanding how Medicare premiums are calculated and what income is used to determine premiums helps you plan effectively for these costs.

Project Your Medicare Part B Costs

Our tools calculate total Part B costs including IRMAA projections for multiple years.

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  • Standard 2024 Part B premium is $174.70/month
  • IRMAA surcharges apply to higher-income beneficiaries
  • Most premiums auto-deducted from Social Security
  • Part B covers outpatient care and physician services
  • Premium amounts set annually by CMS
  • Income from two years prior determines surcharges

Related Resources

How Much Is Medicare Part B

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Complete Part B guide

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about our platform and services

How much does Medicare Part B cost per month?

The standard Medicare Part B monthly premium for 2024 is $174.70. Higher-income beneficiaries pay additional IRMAA surcharges based on their modified adjusted gross income.

What is Medicare Part B?

Medicare Part B is medical insurance that covers medically necessary services and supplies, including doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and some medical equipment.

How are Part B premiums paid?

Most beneficiaries have their Part B premium automatically deducted from their Social Security benefit. Those not receiving Social Security are billed directly.

Does income affect Part B cost?

Yes, higher-income beneficiaries pay additional IRMAA surcharges. These are based on your modified adjusted gross income from your tax return two years prior.

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