Every year, millions of seniors are blindsided by their Medicare Part B bill. In 2025, the standard monthly premium jumped to $185.00 — and if your income is above certain thresholds, you could be paying over $600/month. Here’s every number you need to know, and how to challenge it if your income has dropped.
- 2025 standard Part B premium: $185.00/month
- IRMAA surcharges can push your premium to $628.90/month
- 2025 Part B deductible: $257/year
- After the deductible, you pay 20% of all Medicare-approved costs — with no cap
- You can appeal your premium with SSA Form SSA-44 if income dropped
What Does Medicare Part B Cover?
Part B is the “medical insurance” side of Original Medicare. It covers doctor visits, outpatient procedures, lab tests, durable medical equipment (like walkers and wheelchairs), preventive screenings, and some home health services. Unlike Part A, you pay a monthly premium for Part B regardless of your work history.
2025 Medicare Part B Premium by Income
CMS sets premiums based on your income from two years prior. For 2025, they use your 2023 tax return:
| Individual Income (2023) | Joint Income (2023) | Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ $106,000 | ≤ $212,000 | $185.00 |
| $106,001–$133,000 | $212,001–$266,000 | $259.00 |
| $133,001–$167,000 | $266,001–$334,000 | $370.00 |
| $167,001–$200,000 | $334,001–$400,000 | $480.90 |
| $200,001–$500,000 | $400,001–$750,000 | $591.90 |
| > $500,000 | > $750,000 | $628.90 |
The Part B Deductible and the 20% Rule
Beyond the monthly premium, you pay a $257 annual deductible in 2025. After that, Medicare covers 80% of approved charges — and you’re responsible for the other 20% with no annual out-of-pocket maximum. A major surgery or chronic illness can mean thousands in 20% bills.
This is why many seniors add a Medigap supplement plan — Plan G, for example, covers that 20% entirely after the deductible.
How to Appeal Your Part B Premium
If your income dropped due to retirement, divorce, or loss of a spouse, you qualify to appeal. Here’s how:
- Download Form SSA-44 at ssa.gov
- Gather documentation of the life event (retirement letter, divorce decree)
- Submit to Social Security by mail, phone (1-800-772-1213), or in person
- Provide your most recent tax return or income estimate
- SSA typically responds within 30–60 days
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Medicare Part B premium for 2025?
The standard 2025 Medicare Part B premium is $185.00/month. Higher earners pay IRMAA surcharges up to $628.90/month.
Does everyone pay the same Part B premium?
No. Premiums are income-based. About 92% of Medicare beneficiaries pay the standard $185/month, while 8% pay higher IRMAA-adjusted amounts.
When does Medicare deduct the Part B premium?
If you get Social Security, it’s automatically deducted monthly. If you don’t receive Social Security benefits, Medicare bills you quarterly.
Can I get help paying Part B?
Yes — the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program pays your Part B premium, deductible, and coinsurance if you qualify.
Bottom Line
The 2025 Part B premium increase affects every Medicare enrollee. Know your number, check if you qualify for savings assistance, and appeal if your income has changed. A 15-minute phone call to Social Security could save you thousands this year.