How the penalty is figured
Your monthly premium goes up 10% for each full 12-month period you could have had Part B but did not. The penalty is based on the standard premium for the current year, so it grows as premiums grow.
| Time without Part B | Penalty | Extra per month in 2026 | Total monthly premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 12 months | 0% | $0.00 | $202.90 |
| 12 to 23 months | 10% | $20.29 | $223.19 |
| 24 to 35 months | 20% | $40.58 | $243.48 |
| 36 to 47 months | 30% | $60.87 | $263.77 |
When you will not owe a penalty
- You had health coverage through your or your spouse's current job and signed up within eight months after that job or coverage ended.
- You qualify for help from your state paying Part B premiums.
- You signed up during your Initial Enrollment Period.
COBRA, retiree coverage and individual Marketplace plans do not count as current job coverage. If one of those is your plan, sign up during your first window.
Next steps
If you are close to 65, start with our turning 65 guide. If you missed your window, the General Enrollment Period runs January 1 to March 31. See all enrollment periods.
Common questions
Does the Part B penalty ever go away?
In most cases, no. You pay it for as long as you have Part B. People under 65 on Medicare due to disability can see it end at 65.
Is there a Part A late penalty?
Only if you have to buy Part A. Most people get it free and owe no Part A penalty.
Is the Part D penalty the same?
No. The Part D penalty is 1% of the national base premium for each month without creditable drug coverage.