How your costs might change in 2023

The cost of Medicare can fluctuate each year. The core structure of Medicare Part A has not, and is unlikely to change. But the costs associated with Part A have increased slightly going into the new year. Let's go through how it might affect you.

Do you need to pay a monthly premium?

Generally, no. Medicare Part A, which covers hospital inpatient services, typically has no premium for most people. However, those who are not eligible to receive premium-free Part A may need to pay a monthly premium. For 2023, Medicare Part A has a standard premium of $278 or $506 per month depending on if you or your spouse paid taxes toward Medicare (an increase from the 2022 premiums of $274 or $499). Generally though, most people don't have to pay the Part A premium.

How much is the deductible?

Starting in January 2023, the Part A deductible is $1,600 for each benefit period (an increase from the 2022 deductible of $1,556). A benefit period starts when you go into the hospital, and it ends when you haven't received any inpatient care for 60 days in a row. This deductible means that after you are admitted to the hospital, you will have to pay the first $1,600 for inpatient care.

What about copayment?

In addition to the deductible, you must also pay a copayment for each day you are in the hospital during your benefit period. You must start paying copayment after you pay your deductible if you have been in the hospital for 60 days. Starting on days 61-90, you will have to pay $400 per day in copayment (an increase from $389 in 2022), and on days 91 through 150 beyond you will be responsible for $800 per day (an increase from $778) while using your 60 lifetime reserve days. After day 150, you pay all of the cost.

Additional Part A coverage

If you are in a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) covered by Medicare Part A, you will have $0 copayment for days 1-20. For days 21-100, you will be responsible for $200 each day (up from $194.50 in 2022). After day 101, you are responsible for all the costs.

For both home health care and hospice services, Medicare Part A covers that completely.

Conclusion

Medicare Part A costs have increased a bit for 2023. But the core coverage of Part A have not changed. If you have any additional questions about your Medicare coverage going into the new year, give us a call at 1-888-376-2028 to speak with a Medicare expert today.