Part B Costs & IRMAA

• How much does Medicare Part B cost?Most people pay the standard Part B premium (roughly $185/month in 2026). Higher-income retirees pay IRMAA on top. Lower-income retirees may qualify for help paying it.
• What is IRMAA and will I owe it?IRMAA is the income-based surcharge on Medicare Part B (and Part D). It kicks in above roughly $106,000 single / $212,000 joint MAGI, using your tax return from 2 years ago.
• Can I get a Part B giveback and keep TRICARE For Life?Yes. Enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan with a Part B giveback lowers your premium, and TFL stays intact as a wraparound for in-network MA care.
• How do I pay the Part B premium?If you draw Social Security or DFAS retired pay, the premium is automatically deducted. If not, Medicare bills you quarterly via Medicare Easy Pay or direct billing.
• I just retired and my income dropped. Can I lower my IRMAA?Yes. File SSA Form SSA-44 and provide proof of a 'life-changing event' (retirement, work stoppage, divorce, death of spouse, loss of pension, employer settlement).
• Can my state help pay my Part B premium?If your income is low enough, yes. Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) pay the Part B premium for qualifying beneficiaries. Apply through your state Medicaid office.
• What is Extra Help and do I need it on TFL?Extra Help (LIS) lowers Part D drug costs for low-income beneficiaries. TFL beneficiaries usually don't need it because TRICARE Pharmacy is already very low cost — unless you also enroll in a Part D plan.
• Are my Medicare premiums tax-deductible?Generally yes, as a medical expense if you itemize and your total medical costs exceed 7.5% of AGI. Self-employed retirees may deduct premiums above the line. Talk to a tax professional.
• Why did one extra dollar of income raise my Part B premium hundreds of dollars?IRMAA uses cliff thresholds, not gradual tiers. Crossing a bracket by even $1 jumps you to the next premium amount for the entire year.
• Does TFL pay my Part B premium?No. TFL doesn't pay any Medicare premiums. The Part B premium is your responsibility. A Medicare Advantage Part B giveback can refund part of it while TFL remains intact.

Educational only — not insurance, legal, or tax advice. Verify with Medicare (1-800-MEDICARE), WPS (1-866-773-0404), SSA, or a licensed advisor before making enrollment decisions.