One of the most misunderstood aspects of Medicare Advantage is the cost. With so many ads promoting low-premium plans, it’s easy to assume that Medicare is suddenly low-cost.
But there’s a catch—and it’s one that surprises people every year. Even if you sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan, you’re still required to pay your Medicare Part B premium. In 2026, that premium is $202.90 per month for most beneficiaries.
Let’s break down what this really means—and why the phrase “low-premium” doesn’t tell the full story.
What Is Medicare Part B—and Why Do You Still Pay?
Medicare Part B covers your outpatient care, including doctor visits, lab work, preventive screenings, durable medical equipment, and more. Whether you enroll in Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, Part B is a foundational piece of your coverage.
To stay enrolled in Part B, you must pay a monthly premium. That premium goes directly to Medicare—not your Advantage plan provider.
So when you hear the term “low-premium” Advantage plan, it simply means the private insurance company may charge you a low premium in addition to what you already owe for Part B.
How Medicare Advantage Premiums Work
When enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, individuals generally continue to pay the Medicare Part B premium. Some plans may have an additional monthly premium, while others may not.
In certain cases, a plan may adjust how premiums are structured, which can affect the amount an individual pays. The details of premiums and cost structures vary by plan and location.
Regardless of the plan selected, enrollment in Medicare Part B and payment of the Part B premium are typically required.
Why This Detail Matters
Many people enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan thinking that “lower-premiums” means they’ll have no monthly costs. Then, a few months later, they see the standard Part B premium withdrawn from their Social Security check—and feel blindsided.
It’s not a hidden fee. It’s the baseline cost of Medicare that applies no matter which route you take.
Understanding this upfront can help avoid budget surprises, especially for those comparing Medicare Advantage to Medigap (Supplement) plans.
What Should You Look At Beyond the Premium?
While premium headlines get all the attention, they’re only one part of the cost equation. When evaluating a Medicare Advantage plan, you must evaluate:
- Out-of-pocket maximums
- Copays and coinsurance for hospital stays, specialists, and tests
- Drug formulary tiers and coverage for your prescriptions
- In-network vs. out-of-network provider access
- Rules around referrals or prior authorizations
A plan with little additional premium may have different cost-sharing structures, so it’s important to review how you would pay for services when care is needed.
Make Sure the “low-premium” Plan Doesn’t End Up Costing More
Medicare Advantage plans can offer valuable coverage, but it’s important to understand what you’re really signing up for. While many plans advertise a “low” premium, that doesn’t mean Medicare is low cost. You’re still responsible for your monthly Part B premium, and depending on your plan, additional costs may follow for services, copays, or prescriptions.
Before choosing a plan, look beyond the headline. Review how much you’ll pay if your health needs increase, whether your doctors are in-network, and what kind of access you’ll have to care. A plan that sounds good on paper might not be the best fit once you’re actually using it.
Take the time to evaluate your options carefully. A little clarity now can save you from costly surprises later.
Want to compare plans side by side and understand your real costs? Book an appointment online or call (800) 864‑8890 for a free, personalized consultation with a licensed advisor.