If you are not yet collecting Social Security, Medicare will automatically bill you quarterly by mail. That first bill includes three months of Part B premiums at once, which is why it often catches people off guard.

To avoid large bills in the future, you can enroll in Medicare Easy Pay, which allows your premium to be drafted monthly from your bank account instead.

In some cases, yes. If your income and assets fall below certain limits, you may qualify for a state assistance program or Medicaid, which can cover your Part B premium for you.

Eligibility rules vary by state, so it’s best to check with your local Medicaid office or speak with a Medicare professional to see if you qualify.

No. Medicare is funded through FICA payroll taxes, which are automatically withheld from your paycheck. Employees cannot opt out of paying into Medicare.

Some exceptions exist for certain government employees and railroad retirees who participate in separate retirement systems.

Original Medicare (Parts A & B):

• Automatically deducted from Social Security (if you’re receiving benefits)

• Quarterly paper bill if you’re not receiving Social Security

• Optional monthly bank draft through Medicare Easy Pay

Medicare Advantage & Part D Plans:

• Social Security deduction (if available)

• Monthly bank draft

• Credit cards are generally not accepted

Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plans:

• Monthly automatic bank draft is the standard payment method

Yes. Medicare Part B is the foundation of your coverage.

If you stop paying your Part B premium, your Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan will stop working, and you could lose coverage altogether.

Maintaining Part B is required for any Medicare plan beyond Original Medicare.