Most Idahoans start Medicare when they turn 65. This means that individuals enroll in Medicare parts A and B with the Center for Medicare Services (CMS). Typically, the enrollment process starts with a phone call or walk-in to the Social Security office or applying online. Sometimes Medicare initiates an automatic enrollment, usually if an individual already receives his or her Social Security benefit check. However the Medicare enrollment begins, this transition to Medicare usually involves paying new premiums.
Medicare Part B Premium cost
Medicare is not free. Part A does not have a premium, but Part B does. Depending on a person’s income, Medicare premiums can be subsidized by the State of Idaho through the Medicare Savings Program or by Medicaid for individuals with low income. You can visit the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare website to view current income limits for these programs. On the other hand, Idahoans with higher incomes can be subject to increased Medicare part B premiums. However, most Medicare recipients pay a standard premium for Medicare part B, and that amount changes each calendar year. In 2025, that amount is $185.
Medicare Part B Premium REDUCTION
Some Medicare Advantage plans reduce this part B premium amount with a credit applied through CMS. This means that instead of being charged the full part B premium, individuals enrolled in a plan with a part B credit pay less. If the Medicare Savings program pays the part B premium, the plan will not offer any cash back. But if the individual pays the premium through payment or SSA deduction, the premium amount will be reduced. There are a few different insurers that offer plans with a part B credit, and we are happy to review these plan options and credit amounts with you.
Are the plans the same?
What’s the downside? Well, there is no such thing as a free lunch. If a plan offers a credit toward part B premiums, typically there are reductions in optional benefits (such as dental) and an increase in co-pays. Benefits vary from plan to plan, so it’s always a good idea to review the plan details carefully with a broker. For some Idahoans, particularly those who are not using their health plan benefits frequently, a plan with lower benefits that offers a monthly credit can be a win.
Reach out to Treasure Valley Health Insurance and let us review current Medicare plans with you, and we can see which plan benefits work best for your health insurance needs!