How to manage IRMAA exposure
Because IRMAA looks back two years, retirement-income planning should start at 63. Strategies: spread Roth conversions across years, use qualified charitable distributions to keep MAGI down, and time capital gains. Crossing a tier by $1 raises the whole year's premium.
- • Appeal with SSA-44 after retirement, divorce, or death of a spouse.
- • Part D drug plans carry their own smaller IRMAA surcharge.
- • Bracket thresholds adjust with inflation — recheck each fall.
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Read the guideFAQ
What is the Medicare Part B premium for 2026?
The standard premium is roughly $185/month for most beneficiaries. Higher-income beneficiaries pay IRMAA surcharges that can take the total to $560+/month at the top tier.
What income does IRMAA use?
Modified adjusted gross income from your tax return two years prior — so 2026 premiums use your 2024 return. MAGI here includes tax-exempt interest.
Can I appeal an IRMAA surcharge?
Yes, if you had a life-changing event: retirement, marriage, divorce, death of a spouse, or loss of pension income. File Form SSA-44 with documentation — retirement is the most common successful appeal.
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