Glossary · Costs
What is a premium?
A premium is the amount you pay for your health insurance every month, whether or not you use care. You usually also pay a deductible, copayments, and coinsurance when you get care.
Definition and figures from CMS fact sheet, HealthCare.gov glossary, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.
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Premium: the facts
| Item | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Medicare Part B standard premium (2026) | $202.90 a month | CMS fact sheet: 2026 Medicare Parts A & B premiums and deductibles (Nov 14, 2025) |
| Medicare Part A premium (2026) | $0 for most people; $311 or $565 a month for people who buy Part A | CMS fact sheet: 2026 Medicare Parts A & B premiums and deductibles (Nov 14, 2025) |
| Marketplace premiums | A premium tax credit can lower the premium for an eligible household | HealthCare.gov glossary: Premium |
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Related terms
Questions
What does premium mean in health insurance?
A premium is the amount you pay for your health insurance every month, whether or not you use care. You usually also pay a deductible, copayments, and coinsurance when you get care.
Does the premium count toward the out-of-pocket maximum?
No. HealthCare.gov excludes monthly premiums from the out-of-pocket limit.