Part D Drug Plans 2026 vs 2027: What's Changing
The 2027 Part D numbers are final. The deductible and yearly cap both go up, and the temporary premium stabilization program ends. Here's how stand-alone drug plans (PDPs) compare to 2026.
Book your 2027 Medicare plan review
Open enrollment runs October 15 – December 7. We'll compare your current plan against 2027 options for your doctors and drugs — no cost to you.
2026 vs 2027 side by side
| What changed | 2026 | 2027 | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum deductible | $615 | $700 | You may pay up to $85 more before the plan starts sharing costs. |
| Annual out-of-pocket cap | $2,100 | $2,400 | Heavy drug users may pay up to $300 more before reaching $0 cost-sharing. |
| Cost after reaching the cap | $0 | $0 | Unchanged — covered drugs are free for the rest of the year. |
| National base beneficiary premium | $38.99 | $41.33 | A 6% increase, the maximum allowed by law. Late-enrollment penalties are figured from this amount. |
| Average stand-alone PDP premium | 2026 baseline | Projected up less than $1/month | National average only — some plans will rise much more, others less. |
| Premium Stabilization Demonstration | In effect | Ended | Plans no longer get this temporary premium help, so compare 2027 premiums closely. |
| Coverage gap (donut hole) | Gone | Gone | No return of the donut hole. |
What to do before December 7
- Look up your plan's 2027 premium and deductible — don't assume they match 2026.
- Check each prescription's tier and coverage on the plan's 2027 drug list.
- Confirm your preferred pharmacy is still in network.
- If you have high drug costs, consider the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan to spread costs monthly.
- Switch by December 7, 2026 for coverage starting January 1, 2027.
Schedule your Medicare appointment
Pick a time on our Medicare calendar or call 800-214-8976. A licensed agent will review your 2027 Annual Notice of Change with you.
Frequently asked questions
Sources
- CMS — CY 2027 Rate Announcement (Part D parameters)
- CMS — 2027 Part D national average bid and base premium (Jul 28, 2026)
- CMS — MA and Part D expected to remain stable in 2027 (Sep 28, 2026)
Figures are national CMS parameters; your plan's actual premium, deductible and benefits vary by plan and county. Check your plan's 2027 Annual Notice of Change. We do not offer every plan available in your area; contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE for information on all your options.