How much does Medicare cost per month in Washington?
In 2026, the standard Part B premium is $202.90/month. Part A is usually $0 if you or your spouse paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years. A standalone Part D drug plan in Washington runs about $20–$60/month. A Medicare Supplement plan in Washington typically runs $230–$350/month depending on age, plan letter, and carrier. Some Medicare Advantage plans in Washington have $0 monthly premiums.
What is the Part B late enrollment penalty?
If you don't enroll in Part B when first eligible — and you don't have qualifying employer coverage — your premium goes up 10% for every 12 months you delayed. The penalty is permanent. It's added to your Part B premium for as long as you have Part B.
What is the Part D late enrollment penalty?
If you go 63 days or more without creditable drug coverage after your Initial Enrollment Period, you'll pay a Part D penalty: 1% of the national base beneficiary premium for every month you went without. In 2026 that base is approximately $36.78. The penalty is added to your Part D premium for life.
Are Medicare premiums higher if I have higher income (IRMAA)?
Yes. If your modified adjusted gross income from two years ago is over the threshold (in 2026, around $106,000 for single filers / $212,000 joint), you'll pay an IRMAA surcharge on Part B and Part D premiums. The higher your income, the higher the surcharge — it can more than double your Part B premium at the top brackets.
Late enrollment penalty examples
| Months you delayed Part B | Penalty added | Estimated lifetime cost* |
|---|---|---|
| 12 months | 10% added permanently | ~$243/year × ~20 years = $4,870+ |
| 24 months | 20% added permanently | ~$487/year × ~20 years = $9,740+ |
| 36 months | 30% added permanently | ~$731/year × ~20 years = $14,610+ |
| 48 months | 40% added permanently | ~$974/year × ~20 years = $19,480+ |
*Examples assume 2026 standard Part B premium. Actual penalties scale with future premiums and your years on Medicare.
2026 Medicare costs at a glance
| Cost | 2026 amount |
|---|---|
| Part A premium (most people) | $0 |
| Part A hospital deductible | $1,676 per benefit period |
| Standard Part B premium | $202.90/month |
| Part B annual deductible | $257 |
| Part D national base premium | $36.78/month |
| Part D out-of-pocket cap | $2,000/year |
| Medicare Supplement (Plan G/N) range | $230–$350/month |
| IRMAA threshold (single / joint) | $106,000 / $212,000 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Part B penalty really for life?
Can I avoid the IRMAA surcharge?
Does Medicare have a yearly out-of-pocket limit?
What's the cheapest way to do Medicare in Washington?
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