What is Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B, similar to Medicare Part A, is provided by the federal government. The application process for Part B is similar to Part A. However, deciding whether to sign up for Part B can depend on personal preferences or other health insurance plans you might have.
What does Medicare Part B cover?
Part B covers medical insurance components such as lab tests, surgeries and doctor visits.
Eligibility for Medicare Part B
Depending on which enrollment period you choose, you can enroll in a Part B plan at any time. However, even if you think you don't need Part B right away, it's important to carefully consider your decision. Delaying enrollment can lead to a late penalty, resulting in higher payments and premiums.
When can you enroll in Medicare Part B?
The Medicare Part B application process parallels Part A. However, your decision about signing up for Part B can depend on personal preferences or other health insurance plans.
One of the main factors to consider when enrolling in Part B is whether you have private insurance. If you already have a private insurance plan, you may not need to sign up for Part B right away. It's a good idea to contact your insurance agent if you have any questions about this.
Part B can be an important option if you or a family member/spouse is disabled, still working and have employer-provided coverage. If this is the case, you may have options to delay your enrollment in Part B without penalties.
How to apply for Medicare Part B
If you're nearing 65 and you're not receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) benefits, you'll want to apply for Part B (if you need it) as soon as you can. Similar to Part A, you can apply by:
- Calling the Social Security Administration at 800.772.1213 (TTY: 800.325.0778)
- Visiting your local Social Security office
- Signing up at ssa.gov
If you already receive Social Security or RRB benefits, you don't need to do anything. You'll receive a Medicare red-white-and-blue card about three months before your 65th birthday. If disabled, you'll receive your card during your 25th month of disability. If you decide you don’t want Part B, simply follow the instructions on the card and return it.
What is the cost of Medicare Part B?
Medicare Part B deductible: In 2025, the annual deductible for Part B is $257, which helps cover 80% of services, such as lab tests, surgeries and doctor visits.
Medicare Part B premium: In 2025, the standard monthly premium for Part B is $185, but it increases for individuals and married couples with incomes above certain thresholds.
Medicare Part B penalty
If you don't sign up for Part B when you are first eligible for Medicare, you may be penalized depending on whether your coverage is creditable or not. Creditable coverage is coverage provided by an employer group or union that offers benefits comparable to Original Medicare.
Special situations for Medicare eligibility
In some situations, you may be eligible for Medicare before you turn 65, or you may need some parts of Medicare to keep your current health plan or add other coverage.
For those with a particular disease
- If you have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also called Lou Gehrig's disease, you automatically get Part A and Part B the month your disability benefits begin.
- If you have End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) you can apply for Part A and Part B.
For those who live outside the U.S.
- If you live in Puerto Rico and get benefits from Social Security or the RRB you'll automatically get Part A. If you want Part B, you’ll have to apply for it.
For those with alternative Medicare coverage
- If you have Part A and TRICARE (insurance for active-duty military or retirees and their families), you must have Part B to keep your TRICARE coverage unless the service member who carries the coverage is on active duty.