Missing the initial Medicare sign-up window adds a permanent 10% annual surcharge to Part B premiums, increasing costs for life.
Missing Medicare’s seven-month enrollment window at age 65 imposes a permanent 10% annual surcharge on Part B premiums. A two-year delay raises the 2026 monthly premium from $202.90 to approximately $243, while a five-year delay pushes it above $304.
The 2026 standard Part B premium is set at $202.90, up $17.90 from 2025. The annual deductible rises to $283 from $257. Most beneficiaries avoid Part A premiums due to prior employment credits, but Part B penalties apply unless qualifying employer coverage is maintained.
Enrollment during the initial seven-month window avoids penalties entirely. Workers with employer coverage must file special enrollment paperwork within eight months of losing it to prevent surcharges.