Why is my Medicare Part B premium higher than $202.90? Does my income change it?

CMS says that since 2007, your Part B monthly premium has been based on your income. These income-related amounts affect roughly 8% of people with Medicare Part B [1]. The standard premium for 2026 is $202.90 [1].

Here are the 2026 totals for full Part B coverage if you file an individual tax return, by modified adjusted gross income [1]: • $109,000 or less: $202.90 a month. • Over $109,000 up to $137,000: $284.10. • Over $137,000 up to $171,000: $405.80. • Over $171,000 up to $205,000: $527.50. • Over $205,000 and under $500,000: $649.20. • $500,000 or more: $689.90.

If you file a joint return, the same totals apply at higher income levels: $218,000 or less pays $202.90, and $750,000 or more pays $689.90 [1]. If you are married, lived with your spouse during the year, and file a separate return, you pay $202.90 at $109,000 or less. You pay $649.20 over $109,000 and under $391,000, and $689.90 at $391,000 or more [1]. CMS also says that since 2011 the Part D premium has been based on income too. You pay that extra amount on top of your Part D plan premium [1].

The sources here do not say which tax year Medicare uses, or how to ask for a new decision if your income dropped. "Don't know yet" for your case.

Open the CMS fact sheet and find your filing status in the tables. Your own letter shows your amount and the tax year used - "Don't know yet" from these sources.