For many Americans, Medicare premiums are an unavoidable retirement expense. Depending on the coverage you choose, Medicare covers everything from medical appointments to prescription medications. As with any other type of insurance, though, your premiums are likely to increase from one year to the next.

Many retirees find that Medicare Parts A and B are the most essential types of coverage to have. Part A covers hospitalization, while Part B takes care of those all-too-important medical visits. Usually, Part A will be covered, as long as you paid taxes over the years. But you’ll need to pay for Part B, and those premiums aren’t cheap. Even worse, they tend to rise over time. If you’re wondering, “How much does Medicare cost?”, we’re going to break down just how much Medicare Part B premiums will cost in 2022.

How much does Medicare Part B cost in 2022?

For 2022, the cost of Medicare Part B is based on your annual income as reported on your 2021 tax return. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses income-related monthly adjustment amounts (IRMAA) to apply higher rates to those falling within predetermined income brackets. Those who pay IRMAA receive a notification from the SSA letting them know their income qualifies them for a higher amount.

Your annual deductible will also see a sizable increase in 2022. In 2021, you had to spend $203 to reach the yearly deductible amount. The Medicare Part B deductible rose to $233 in 2022 – a $30 increase. If you’ve retired or had another income-changing event since 2020, you can complete this form to have your Medicare Part B premiums reduced.

Increase of Medicare Part B since 2021

As medical care costs rise from year to year, premiums are adjusted to cover those increases. According to the Center for Medicare Services, the small increases are linked to rising medical costs, along with an expected increase in the intensity of medical care needed. Most people will pay the $170.10 premium, which is deducted from your Social Security payment if you receive one, or billed to you if you don’t.

It’s also notable that the Medicare Part B deductible is increasing by $30 in 2022. That means you’ll need to pay $233 annually before your Medicare coverage kicks in. At that point, 80 percent of the cost of your care will be covered, which means you’ll be responsible for the other 20 percent. But preventive care is fully covered, with no deductible applied, so yearly physicals, bone density tests, certain screenings, vaccinations, and some therapies are available at no charge to you.

Although the Medicare Part B premium 2022 rates are slightly higher than the 2021 rates, it’s a relatively small increase. A private Medicare Supplement Plan could even help offset some of the costs Medicare doesn’t cover, such as dental care, eye exams, and hearing aids, along with the 20 percent out-of-pocket you have to pay once you’ve reached your deductible.

Bottom Line

Retirement can be complicated, but you don’t have to plan alone. Talk to a Certified Financial Planner today for help with Social Security, private and employer-sponsored retirement plans, and Medicare.