2026 Medicare Costs & Coverage Guide
Transparent estimates for 2026 Medicare costs. No pressure. No hidden pricing. See how income, prescriptions, and coverage choices affect what you pay.
Your Medicare Cost Inputs
Your Estimated 2026 Costs
Medigap vs Medicare Advantage
Most Medicare beneficiaries choose one of these two paths for cost protection. Each works very differently — and which is right depends on how you want costs to behave over time.
How Medigap Works
- Predictable medical costs year-round
- No provider networks — nationwide access
- Covers deductibles and coinsurance gaps
- Higher monthly premium, fewer surprises
- Ideal for frequent care or travel
Best For
- People who want cost certainty
- Those who travel or live in multiple states
- Beneficiaries who prefer fewer billing surprises
How Medicare Advantage Works
- Lower monthly premiums in many areas
- Annual out-of-pocket maximum included
- Uses provider networks (HMO / PPO)
- Extra benefits like dental & vision
- Costs vary by county & ZIP code
Best For
- Budget-focused beneficiaries
- Those comfortable with managed care
- People who want an annual cost ceiling
IRMAA — Why Income Can Quietly Raise Medicare Costs
IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) is an additional charge added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums when income exceeds certain thresholds. Many people don’t discover IRMAA until premiums increase — without warning.
How IRMAA Is Triggered
Why It Catches People Off Guard
IRMAA Can Be Appealed
Why May River Medicare Is Different
We believe Medicare decisions should be made with clarity — not pressure. You see real options first, understand the costs, and stay in control at every step.
Radical Transparency
No hidden pricing. No sales tactics. We show estimates, explain variables, and only then help you compare real plans.
Education Before Enrollment
You understand Medicare first — costs, IRMAA, coverage tradeoffs — before any application or commitment.
Truly Independent
We compare carriers nationwide by county and ZIP code. We don’t push plans — we match coverage to your needs.
Compliance, Accuracy & Transparency
Medicare information should be clear, compliant, and easy to understand. This guide is designed to educate — not pressure — and to help you make informed decisions.
Educational Estimates Only
Cost figures shown on this page are general estimates based on published Medicare data and common averages. Actual premiums, benefits, and availability vary by county, ZIP code, income verification, and plan enrollment periods.
Licensed, Independent Guidance
May River Medicare is an independent agency. We are not owned by any insurance carrier and do not promote one plan over another. Final plan details are always reviewed with a licensed Medicare advisor or through secure self-service tools.
Understand Medicare Before You Choose
Medicare decisions should never be rushed. Understanding how coverage works — before comparing plans — helps prevent long-term cost surprises.
How Original Medicare Really Works
Original Medicare includes Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage), but it does not include an annual out-of-pocket maximum. This is why many beneficiaries explore Medicare Supplement (Medigap) or Medicare Advantage plans for cost protection.
Why County & ZIP Code Matter
Medicare plans are approved and priced at the county level. Benefits, premiums, and provider access can change dramatically depending on where you live. Learn more in our national service area guide.
Income, IRMAA & Hidden Costs
Higher income levels may trigger IRMAA — an income-based adjustment that increases Part B and Part D premiums automatically. Many people discover IRMAA only after premiums increase.
Education Before Enrollment
May River Medicare believes education should come first. Our tools allow you to explore options independently, without pressure, before speaking to a licensed advisor.
Independent & Unbiased
May River Medicare is not tied to any single carrier. We compare plans objectively — based on what works best for you.
Radical Transparency
You see options, estimates, and plan structures first. No pressure. No hidden pricing. No obligation.
Nationwide Expertise
Our technology and licensed advisors serve beneficiaries across the United States — by county and ZIP code.