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2026 Medicare Updates

What's changing in 2026, why it matters, and how Hanson Insurance can help you make the most of your coverage.

What's new in Medicare for 2026

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$2,100 Part D Out-of-Pocket Cap

The Inflation Reduction Act established a $2,100 annual cap on Medicare Part D out-of-pocket drug costs. This is a landmark change — there was previously no cap. If you take expensive medications, this could save you thousands per year.

Major Savings Opportunity
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Part B Premium Changes

The standard Medicare Part B premium for 2026 has been updated. Higher-income beneficiaries pay an Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). We can help you understand exactly what you'll pay based on your income level.

Book a consultation for exact 2026 premium figures.

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Insulin Price Cap Continues

Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, insulin is capped at $35 per month for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. If you're paying more than this for insulin, your plan may need to be reviewed.

Ongoing IRA Benefit

How the IRA is changing Medicare drug costs.

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) introduced several significant changes to Medicare prescription drug coverage that are being phased in through 2026 and beyond:

Vaccine coverage — $0 cost sharing

Recommended vaccines covered under Part D now have $0 cost sharing for Medicare beneficiaries.

$35 insulin cap

All covered insulin products under Medicare Part D are capped at $35/month.

$2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap

The catastrophic phase of Part D is eliminated, replaced by a $2,100 annual cap.

Medicare drug price negotiation

For the first time, Medicare is negotiating prices directly with drug manufacturers for select high-cost drugs.

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Is your current plan still the best one?

With major changes to Part D, the plan that was best for you in 2024 or 2025 may not be the best for you in 2026. We recommend an annual plan review every October before the Annual Enrollment Period closes.

Book a Free Plan Review →

Our service is always free to you.

When you can make changes to your Medicare coverage

Oct 15 – Dec 7

Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)

The main window to switch, drop, or join Medicare Advantage or Part D plans. Changes take effect January 1. This is the most important enrollment window for most people.

Jan 1 – Mar 31

Open Enrollment Period (OEP)

Medicare Advantage enrollees can switch to a different MA plan or return to Original Medicare (and join a Part D plan). You cannot switch from Original Medicare to MA during OEP.

3 mo. before 65 – 3 mo. after

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)

Your first chance to sign up for Medicare. The 7-month window around your 65th birthday. Enrolling on time is critical to avoid lifetime penalties.

Year-round

Special Enrollment Periods (SEP)

Triggered by qualifying life events — moving, losing employer coverage, becoming dual eligible, and more. If you've had a major life change, you may be able to make changes outside standard windows.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 13 organizations which offer 92 plans in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Make sure your 2026 plan is working for you.

Book a free annual review. We'll check your prescriptions, your providers, and your costs — and let you know if a better plan exists.