Advisors – November 2025
As we enter the final stretch of Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, many clients are experiencing plan changes, increased questions, and overall confusion. I appreciate the continued trust and referrals from your office—supporting your clients through Medicare complexities is truly a team effort. If you have clients still unsure about their 2026 options, please feel free to pass this update along or connect them with me directly.
This Month’s Highlights
📰 Medicare Policy Updates
2026 Part B Costs Announced
Medicare has released the updated Part B premiums and deductibles:
- Standard Part B premium: $202.90/month (previously $185 in 2025)
- Part B annual deductible: $283/year (previously $257 in 2025)
This increase is larger than in recent years and reflects rising healthcare costs across the Medicare program.
📊 2026 IRMAA Brackets
The updated 2026 IRMAA chart is included in this newsletter for your planning discussions.
- Income thresholds have been adjusted for inflation
- Higher-income clients may see changes in Part B and Part D surcharges
- The new chart can be a helpful tool during year-end and early-year planning meetings
🚨 Major 2026 Plan Disruptions: MA Terminations
Approximately 10% of Medicare Advantage enrollees nationwide are losing their plan for 2026. This affects 2.9 million beneficiaries, up from 2 million last year.
- Several carriers are exiting select markets
- Some plans are being discontinued even if the carrier remains
- Members in terminated plans must choose new coverage by December 31 for a January 1 start
- Client notices vary by carrier and may not clearly outline next steps
- Clients affected by a plan termination receive a Guaranteed Issue (GI) right to enroll in a Medigap plan without medical underwriting
If your clients need support evaluating new options, I’m happy to assist.
📅 Key Dates to Share with Clients
- December 7: Annual Enrollment Period ends
- December 31: Deadline for clients whose 2026 plan is being terminated
- January 1–March 31: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment (MA-OEP) — one plan change allowed
Partnering Together
Thank you for your ongoing partnership and referrals. Medicare continues to shift rapidly, and I’m here to be a reliable extension of your team—offering clarity, compliance-friendly guidance, and a calm experience for your clients during an overwhelming season.
If you’d like to discuss how I can support your practice, or if you have a client who could benefit from Medicare guidance, please reach out anytime. Referrals are always welcome and appreciated.
Jenell Sobas, FPQP®
Independent Broker and Agency Owner | Key2Medicare Insurance
📧 [email protected] | ☎️ 303-484-1763
🌐 key2medicare.com