At Bieu Lam Insurance, we recognize that Medicare is the cornerstone of your retirement security. The 2026 Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), running from October 15 to December 7, is particularly critical this year. Federal adjustments to the Inflation Reduction Act have fundamentally redesigned the Part D benefit structure. As your local experts in Rosemead, we are here to ensure you maximize these new protections while avoiding the sharp premium increases projected for the new year.

When is the 2026 Medicare Open Enrollment period?

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) begins on October 15, 2025, and ends on December 7, 2025. During this time, you can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, change your Part D prescription drug coverage, or return to Original Medicare from a private plan. Any changes made during this window will take effect on January 1, 2026.

What are the new Medicare Part D cost caps for 2026?

A landmark change for 2026 is the updated out-of-pocket maximum for prescription drugs. Following the $2,000 cap introduced in 2025, the 2026 Part D out-of-pocket limit is $2,100. Once you reach this threshold, you will pay $0 for covered prescriptions for the remainder of the year. This cap applies to both stand-alone Part D plans and the drug coverage included in Medicare Advantage (MAPD) plans.

How much will Medicare Part B premiums cost in 2026?

The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B is increasing to $202.90 in 2026 (up from $185.00 in 2025). The annual Part B deductible is also rising to **$283**. These increases are largely driven by higher projected spending on outpatient services and price adjustments. It is vital to review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) to see how these federal increases impact your specific plan’s total cost.

Can I spread out my out-of-pocket drug costs in 2026?

Yes. The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (MPPP), introduced last year, continues in 2026 with a new automatic renewal feature. If you opted into this program to spread your drug costs into monthly installments instead of paying a lump sum at the pharmacy, you will be automatically re-enrolled for 2026 unless you choose to opt out. This is a powerful budgeting tool for those taking high-cost maintenance medications.