IRMAA

What is IRMAA?

IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) is an additional charge added to your Medicare premiums if your income is above certain limits.

It applies to:

• Medicare Part B (medical insurance)

• Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage)

In simple terms:
Higher income = higher Medicare premiums

How IRMAA is Calculated

IRMAA is based on your income from two years ago, using your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) from your tax return.

For example:

• Your 2026 Medicare premiums are based on your 2024 income

2026 IRMAA Income Brackets (Approximate)

For Individuals:

• $106,000 or less → No IRMAA (standard premium)

• Above $106,000 → IRMAA applies and increases in tiers

For Married Couples (filing jointly):

• $212,000 or less → No IRMAA

• Above $212,000 → IRMAA applies

As income rises, your monthly premiums increase in steps.

What Does IRMAA Affect?

Medicare Part B

• Standard premium increases depending on income tier

• This is usually deducted from Social Security, provided you are taking  your Social Security Income

Medicare Part D

• Additional monthly fee (separate from your plan premium)

• Paid directly or deducted from Social Security

Common Life Events That Can Lower IRMAA

If your income has recently decreased, you may be able to appeal IRMAA using a life-changing event, such as:

• Retirement or reduced work hours

• Marriage, divorce, or death of a spouse

• Loss of income-producing property

• Loss of pension income

How to Appeal IRMAA

You can request a reduction by filing Form SSA-44 with Social Security.

This allows Medicare to base your premiums on your current income instead of income from two years ago.

Why IRMAA Matters

IRMAA can significantly increase your Medicare costs, so it’s important to:

• Plan ahead if your income is near a threshold

• Understand how retirement timing affects premiums

• Review your situation annually

IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) – 2026

In 2026, Medicare beneficiaries with higher income pay increased premiums for Part B and Part D. These adjustments are based on your 2024 tax return (MAGI).

• Standard Part B premium: $202.90/month

• Part D: Varies by plan + IRMAA surcharge

2026 IRMAA Premium Chart

Medicare Part B + Part D (Monthly Costs)