Medicare 2026 Updates: What Illinois Residents Need to Know
If you’re enrolled in Medicare, or approaching your 65th birthday, 2026 brings several important changes that could impact your coverage and costs. From new rules for Medicare Supplement plans to a redesigned Medicare Part D drug benefit, now is the time to understand what’s ahead.
Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan Updates
Medicare Supplement plans (also known as Medigap) continue to be a trusted way to limit out-of-pocket expenses for Illinois seniors. In 2026:
- Expect adjustments to deductibles and coverage rules for some plan letters
- It may be time to review whether Plan G or Plan N still fits your healthcare needs and budget
- Premium changes and underwriting rules may differ based on your age and when you first enrolled
Reviewing your Medigap coverage annually helps ensure you’re not overpaying or underinsured.
Medicare Part D: Prescription Drug Changes in 2026
Big changes are coming to Medicare’s Part D prescription drug benefit:
- A new $2,000 annual out-of-pocket cap goes into effect in 2026
- The federal drug price negotiation program begins, which may lower costs on certain high-cost medications
- Plan formularies and tier structures will matter more than ever, what’s covered (and how much it costs) may shift from plan to plan
Now more than ever, it’s important to review your Part D plan options each fall to make sure your prescriptions are covered affordably.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) Plans: Benefit Restructuring
Medicare Advantage plans in 2026 will continue offering supplemental benefits like:
- Routine dental, vision, and hearing coverage
- Fitness programs and wellness incentives
- Transportation or over-the-counter (OTC) allowances
However, how these extras are structured may vary by carrier and ZIP code. Some plans may reduce certain benefits while expanding others, especially in Cook County and the surrounding Chicagoland area.
Why You Should Review Your Medicare Plan Before 2026
Medicare is always changing, and 2026 is no exception. Even small shifts in coverage or pricing can affect your healthcare choices and monthly budget.
If you’re:
- Turning 65 in 2026
- Already enrolled in Medicare
- Helping a parent or spouse navigate their options
Now is the time to review what’s changing and prepare for the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) that opens each fall.
Talk to a Local Medicare Insurance Broker in Oak Lawn, IL
At Perrino Insurance Partners, we help you understand how national Medicare changes apply locally, based on your zip code, carrier options, and health needs.
Want to read more about medicare? Read all about Medicare 101 here
Contact us today for a free Medicare review, and we’ll walk you through your 2026 options with clarity and compassion.
Serving Oak Lawn IL, Chicago Ridge IL, Hickory Hills IL, Burbank IL and surrounding Chicagoland communities
*Calling the number above or filling out the form, you will be directed to a license insurance agent.
**We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.