How much does Medicare Part C Cost?
The cost of Medicare Part C plans (also known as Medicare Advantage plans) varies depending on where you live. Some plans have $0 premiums. On average, your monthly premiums are usually lower than what you pay for Medicare Part B. You still pay for your part B premium, though some Medicare Advantage plans will help with that cost. With a Medicare Part C plan, you receive Part A and Part B coverage plus many other benefits you don't receive with Original Medicare.
A breakdown of your Medicare Part C costs
Medicare Part C Premiums
Medicare Part C premiums vary, typically ranging from $0 to $200 for different coverage. You still pay for your Part B premium, though some Medicare Part C plans will help with that cost.
Medicare Part C Deductibles
Like premiums, deductibles vary with your plan. Some Medicare Part C plans have separate deductibles for medical care and prescription drugs.
Medicare Part C Copays
Copays are a flat fee for medical services. Some Medicare Part C plans may have a higher copay for healthcare providers not in their plan (i.e., out of network).
Once you calculate the added benefits of a Medicare Part C plan, you may see the value that comes with this type of coverage. In fact, approximately one-third of Medicare enrollees opt for a Medicare Part C plan each year.
What does Medicare Part C cover?
Medicare Part C plans offer all the benefits of Original Medicare, plus extra coverage that can save you money, like:
- Prescription drug coverage (Part D)
- Routine dental care including cleanings, X-rays, and dentures
- Routine vision care including contacts and glasses
- Routine hearing care including hearing aids
- Fitness benefits including exercise classes
How much does Medicare Part C cost per month?
Medicare Part C prices vary from plan to plan and state to state. But there are some basic factors that determine your Medicare Part C costs:
- The monthly premium of your plan, which typically ranges from $0 to $200
- How much of your Medicare Part B costs your Medicare Part C plan covers
- The amount of your copays for various medical services
Who is eligible for Medicare Part C?
To be eligible for a Medicare Part C plan:
- You must be enrolled in Original Medicare (Medicare Parts A and B).
- You need a Medicare Part C insurance provider that’s offering the coverage you want during your enrollment period.
During enrollment, you can review pricing from Part C insurers such as Empire and compare Medicare Part C plans. Balance your costs with the coverage that's important to you.
Help with your Medicare Part C plan costs
If you're having trouble finding an affordable plan, you have options. You can receive help with Medicare Part C costs through a Medicare Savings Program.
If you meet the requirements for low income, disability, or certain chronic health conditions and you are currently enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B, these programs help pay for Medicare Part C premiums and other costs from your plan.
Can I change my Medicare Part C plan?
If you picked a plan that doesn't provide the coverage you need or is too expensive, you have the option to explore other plans once a year. If you currently have Original Medicare, you can use the Annual Enrollment Period to sign up for a Medicare Part C plan for the first time. During this time, you can also change or drop an existing Medicare Part C plan.
You also have a chance to change your Medicare Part C plan from January 1 to March 31 during the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period.
