Medicare Part D

How Part D works in 2026 — and how to pick a plan that covers your drugs.

📞 Call 1-800-633-4427 — FreeAmerica's Trusted Toll-Free Number

A senior woman with eyeglasses reviews a medicine bottle at a pharmacy counter indoors, illustrating Medicare Part D — 1-800-MEDIGAP, America's Trusted Toll-Free Number. — Photo: cottonbro studio / Pexels

Quick answer

Medicare Part D is optional prescription drug coverage from private insurers approved by Medicare. It pairs with Original Medicare or comes inside a Medicare Advantage plan. In 2026, out-of-pocket drug costs are capped at $2,100 and the donut hole is gone, per CMS.

Medicare Part D is how Original Medicare beneficiaries get prescription drug coverage. Here is what it covers, what it costs, and how to enroll.

What does Medicare Part D cover?

Part D covers outpatient prescription drugs you fill at a pharmacy. Every plan must cover at least two drugs in each major therapeutic class and all drugs in six protected classes, such as cancer and HIV medications. Each plan publishes a formulary listing its covered drugs and cost tiers. Part D does not cover drugs administered in a doctor's office (those fall under Part B) or over-the-counter medicines. Because formularies differ, the same drug can cost very different amounts across plans. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can check your exact medications against available plans.

How do you get Part D coverage?

There are two ways. First, a standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) that attaches to Original Medicare — common for people who also carry a Medigap policy. Second, a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles drug coverage (MA-PD). You cannot have a standalone PDP and most Medicare Advantage plans at the same time. You enroll during your Initial Enrollment Period at 65, the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15–Dec 7), or a qualifying Special Enrollment Period. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP and we will confirm which path fits your situation.

What does Part D cost in 2026?

Costs include a monthly premium, an annual deductible up to $615 in 2026, and copays per prescription. The national base premium averages about $40 per month, though plans vary. The major 2026 protection is a $2,100 annual out-of-pocket cap — after you spend that much on covered drugs, you pay $0 for the rest of the year. Insulin is capped at $35 per month and many vaccines are free. Higher earners pay an income-related surcharge (IRMAA) on top of their premium.

More on Part D & Prescription Drugs

← Part D & Prescription Drugs (overview)pillar guide Medicare Prescription Payment Plan Medicare Prescription Drug Plans 2026 Medicare Part D Formulary Part D Late Enrollment Penalty Medicare Part D Out-of-Pocket Maximum 2026 Medicare Donut Hole 2026 Creditable Drug Coverage

Frequently asked questions

What is Medicare Part D in simple terms?+

Medicare Part D is prescription drug insurance sold by private companies approved by Medicare. It helps pay for the medications you pick up at the pharmacy. You can buy it as a standalone plan with Original Medicare or get it built into a Medicare Advantage plan.

Is Part D included in Original Medicare?+

No. Original Medicare (Parts A and B) does not include most prescription drug coverage. You add Part D separately through a private Prescription Drug Plan, or you get drug coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan that includes it.

How much does Medicare Part D cost per month?+

Premiums vary by plan and region, with a 2026 national base of about $40 per month. You may also pay a deductible (up to $615 in 2026) and copays. Higher-income enrollees pay an additional income-related surcharge known as IRMAA.

Do I need Part D if I take no medications?+

Many advisors recommend enrolling anyway. If you skip Part D without other creditable drug coverage, you face a permanent late enrollment penalty when you eventually join. A low-premium plan now can be cheaper than the penalty later. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP to weigh your options.

Can I switch Part D plans?+

Yes. You can change Part D plans each year during the Annual Enrollment Period, October 15 to December 7, with the new plan starting January 1. Some life events, like moving or losing other coverage, open a Special Enrollment Period to switch outside that window.

Talk to a licensed specialist — free.

America's Trusted Toll-Free Number. One call answers it all, at no cost and no obligation.

📞 Call 1-800-MEDIGAP