Medicare IRMAA Surcharges

What is IRMAA?

An income-related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA) can increase the Part B premium and separately add to the cost of Part D coverage. The Part D adjustment is in addition to the plan premium. Social Security determines whether an adjustment applies using tax information, generally from two years earlier.

Why year and filing status matter

Income thresholds and amounts change by year and depend on tax filing status; different rules can apply to married people who file separately. Do not use an old threshold to predict a current bill. Check your Social Security notice and Medicare’s current cost information. The CMS 2025 fact sheet is a historical example and is not a current rate table.

If your circumstances have changed

If a qualifying life-changing event reduced your income, you may be able to request a new initial determination from Social Security using Form SSA-44. Review your notice and Social Security’s form and instructions for qualifying events and evidence. An appeal of a determination is a separate process; follow the instructions in your notice.