Medicare
How the four parts fit together, and the enrollment deadlines that cost people money.
Parts A, B, C, and D in plain language, the enrollment windows that matter, and what changed for 2026. We walk through the official Medicare.gov tools on screen so you can do it yourself, with the sources shown every time.
What we cover
- Medicare A, B, C, and D, explained simply
- Enrollment windows, and what happens if you miss one
- How Medigap and Medicare Advantage differ (and how to compare them yourself)
- IRMAA: how income can raise your Part B and Part D costs
- What the 2026 numbers actually mean for your budget
The 2026 numbers
The figures people ask about most, as of 2026. Every one is shown with its source on the channel so you can confirm it yourself.
- Part B premium
- $202.90/mo
- Part A deductible
- $1,736
- Part D out-of-pocket cap
- $2,100
- IRMAA income thresholds start at
- $109,000 single / $218,000 joint
Source: Medicare.gov / SSA.gov, 2026. Program rules change every year, so always confirm current figures at the official source.
A promise: We never rank or sell specific plans. For your own coverage, compare at Medicare.gov or talk to a free SHIP counselor.