Medicare Learning Center
What Are the 4 Parts of Medicare?
Medicare has four parts: Part A covers hospital stays (free for most people), Part B covers doctor visits ($202.90/month in 2026), Part C (Medicare Advantage) combines everything into one private plan, and Part D covers prescriptions (~$35/month). Over 67 million Americans rely on Medicare for their health coverage.
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What Does Each Part of Medicare Cover?
Each part of Medicare serves a specific purpose. According to CMS, 93% of Medicare beneficiaries have additional coverage beyond Original Medicare Parts A and B.
Hospital Insurance
Covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care. Most people don't pay a premium for Part A if they or a spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.
Usually $0 premium
Learn how to enrollMedical Insurance
Covers doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, durable medical equipment, and some home health services. There's a standard monthly premium.
$202.90/month (2026)
See full cost breakdownMedicare Advantage
Offered by private companies, combines Part A & B (and usually Part D). Often includes extra benefits like dental, vision, and hearing. Must still pay Part B premium.
Varies by plan
Learn more about AdvantagePrescription Drug
Helps cover the cost of prescription drugs. Offered by private companies either as standalone plans or as part of Medicare Advantage. New for 2026: $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap.
~$35/month average
Learn more about Part D costsHow Do You Enroll in Medicare?
When you become eligible at 65, the timing depends on your situation. According to SSA.gov, about 4 million Americans become Medicare-eligible each year.
Receiving Social Security
Automatically enrolled in Parts A & B. Coverage starts the 1st of the month you turn 65.
Full detailsNot Yet Receiving Social Security
You must actively sign up during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): a 7-month window around your 65th birthday.
Full detailsStill Working at 65
You may delay Part B without penalty if covered by an active employer group plan (20+ employees).
Full detailsWhat Are the Key Medicare Numbers for 2026?
$202.90/mo
Part B Premium
$1,736
Part A Deductible
$283
Part B Deductible
$2,100
Part D Out-of-Pocket Cap
What Are the Most Common Medicare Mistakes?
Missing Your Initial Enrollment
Late enrollment can mean permanent premium penalties, 10% per year for Part B, for life.
Ignoring Part D
Even if you don't take medications now, late Part D enrollment means paying a 1% per month penalty later.
Not Reviewing Coverage Annually
Plans change every year. What worked last year may not be your best option this year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Basics
Medicare Has Deadlines That Can Cost You Thousands. Don't Miss One.
Most people turning 65 don't realize there are specific enrollment windows, and missing them means permanent premium penalties. I put every critical step and deadline on one page so you don't have to guess.
"No sales calls. No spam. Just a checklist." - Nick Depke, Depke Insurance Agency
Free Downloadable Guides
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Free Medicare Enrollment Guide by Nick Depke
A step-by-step walkthrough of Medicare enrollment - deadlines, plan options, and what to watch out for.
- ✓The 5 costly Medicare mistakes most seniors make
- ✓Enrollment timeline with key deadlines
- ✓How to choose between Supplement and Advantage
Medicare 101: The Complete Visual Guide (2026)
A comprehensive visual guide covering all the Medicare basics - parts, costs, timelines, and how to choose the right plan.
- ✓Parts A, B, C, and D explained with real 2026 costs
- ✓Side-by-side comparison of Supplement vs. Advantage
- ✓Enrollment scenarios and penalty avoidance