Overview
- Open enrollment ends Dec. 7, 2025, with any changes taking effect Jan. 1, 2026.
- Medicare Part B’s monthly premium will be $202.90 in 2026 and the Part B deductible will be $283, while the Part A hospital deductible will be $1,736.
- The standalone Part D market shrinks to 360 plans nationwide, with consumers in 11 states and Puerto Rico losing access to $0‑premium options and an average 2026 premium estimated at $34.50.
- Several Medicare Advantage plans are being discontinued or scaled back for 2026, including UnitedHealthcare service-area reductions, triggering guaranteed‑issue windows for switching to Medigap in many cases.
- Beneficiaries are urged to review Annual Notices of Change, compare plans on Medicare.gov, weigh network limits and out‑of‑pocket caps in MA against Medigap’s higher but predictable premiums, and maintain drug coverage to avoid penalties.