Source: AARP.org
Most people do not pay for Part A because they have paid Medicare taxes for 40 or more quarters while working. Those with 30 to 39 quarters of covered employment can buy Part A coverage. It costs $244 a month. Those who have less than 30 quarters of covered employment will pay $443.
Most people on Medicare will pay $96.40 a month for Part B in 2009. That's the same as the Part B premium for 2008. Higher-income people will pay even more.
Tax Return Income (Individual)
Up to $85,000
$85,001 to $107,000
$107,001 to $160,000
$160,001 to $213,000
Over $ 213,000
Joint Tax Return Income (Married Couple)
Up to $170,000
$170,001 to $214,000
$214,001 to $320,000
$320,001 to $426,000
Over $426,000
2009 Monthly Part B Premium
$96.40
$134.90
$192.70
$250.50
$308.30
If you're on Medicare before January 1, 2009, you'll be told at the end of 2008 about the 2009 rates. You'll also find out about any related changes in your Social Security benefits. If you enroll after then and must pay the higher premium, you'll hear shortly after enrolling.
Part A Deductible: The 2009 Part A deductible is $1,068 per illness, up $44 from 2008.
Part B Deductible: The 2009 Part B deductible is $135, the same as it was in 2008.
Part A Copayments: The Part A deductible covers the first 60 days of a Medicare-covered hospital stay. Then you pay $267 a day for days 61 through 90. After the 90th day, your co-pay for lifetime reserve days is $534 a day.
For more information call Medicare toll-free at 1-800-633-4227 or visit www.medicare.gov on the Web.