Stand-Alone Part D Premiums Likely to Rise in 2026

According to KFF Health News Part D premiums are likely to rise in 2026 for a number of reasons. 

Starting this year, Medicare enrollees have an out-of-pocket cap of $2,000 for drug costs. 

In prior years, enrollees shared in the costs of 5% above the threshold.

This cost is now being absorbed by the insurance companies.

Second, the injection of $6 billon federal dollars under the Biden Administration to the insurance companies to reduce premium increases is being gradually reduced. 

Finally, spending on prescription drugs grew more than 10% in 2024. 

It’s anticipated may potentially see premiums as high as $50 a month but we’ll know more the closer we get to open enrollment on October 15.