Social Security and Medicare Part B

If you receive Social Security benefits, you can have your Medicare Part B premiums automatically deducted from your benefits payments. You may also be automatically enrolled in Medicare based on your Social Security status. Learn more about Medicare Part B’s costs, as well as how Social Security may affect your Part B premiums.

What is Social Security Part B

Social Security Part B, or Medicare Part B, provides coverage for essential medical services, including doctor visits, outpatient care, home health services, durable medical equipment, mental health services, and other necessary medical treatments.

This component also encompasses various preventive services, enhancing comprehensive healthcare coverage.

The Medicare Part B Premium

Most seniors pay a standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B. In 2024, that standard premium is $174.70 per month. It can be higher depending on your income.

However, that cost might be lower for many people who are receiving Social Security benefits. Part B premiums can be automatically deducted from your Social Security benefit payment. If your Part B premiums are deducted from your Social Security benefit payments, the premium amount may be lower.

Automatic Medicare Enrollment

Social Security benefits can also impact your Medicare coverage in other ways. For instance, you are typically automatically eligible for Medicare if you are receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65. In most cases, you will automatically begin receiving Medicare Part A and Part B benefits on the first day of the month you reach age 65.

If you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B because of your Social Security eligibility, you’ll receive your red, white and blue Medicare card in the mail three months before you turn 65, or three months before your 25^th month of Social Security disability benefits.

Dropping Medicare Part B

Medicare Part B offers health insurance coverage for medically necessary services and preventive care. Medicare Part B is also optional. If you choose to drop your Medicare Part B coverage, you can do so by contacting a Social Security representative at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).

Learn more about your Medicare coverage options and Medicare eligibility requirements by speaking with an agent at 1-800-995-4219.