Medicare Part B Giveback Benefit explained

The Medicare Giveback Benefit is a Part B premium reduction benefit offered by some Medicare Advantage plans.

If you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan with this benefit, the plan carrier will pay some or all of your Part B monthly premium. The amount covered can range from 10 cents to the full Part B premium cost ($185 in  2025).

To be eligible for the Medicare Part B Giveback Benefit, you must:

• Be enrolled Original Medicare (Parts A and B)
• Pay your own Part B premium
• Live in the service area of a plan that offers a Part B giveback

Note: The Part B Giveback is restricted to certain states and counties. Plans may not be available in your area.

You will not receive checks directly from your Medicare Advantage plan carrier. You can get your Part B reduction in 2 ways:

1. If you pay your Part B premium through Social Security, the Part B Giveback will be credited monthly to your Social Security check.
2. If you don’t pay your Part B premium through Social Security, you’ll pay a reduced monthly amount directly to Medicare.

Once you become eligible, the monthly amount will be applied to your Social Security checks or Medicare Part B premium. If you recently switched to a new plan with a giveback, it could take a few months for the reimbursement to start. When it starts, you should be reimbursed for each month you weren’t compensated since joining your new plan.

The thought of a Part B reimbursement can be appealing. However, it’s best to consider these factors before switching from your current plan to a Medicare Advantage plan with a Part B giveback:

• Cost
• Coverage
• Prescription drugs
• Doctor and hospital choice
• Quality of care

If the costs are higher or your coverage is less compared to your current plan, the Part B reimbursement may not be worth it. If cost and coverage are the same or comparable, it could be worth it. To help you choose what’s best for your needs, check out how to compare Medicare Advantage plans.

For more helpful information on Medicare, check out these 10 frequently asked questions about Medicare plans.