D
Coverage

Part D

Prescription drug coverage and how to choose a plan.

Part D is prescription drug coverage offered by private plans. You can add it to Original Medicare, or get it built into a Medicare Advantage plan.

Key points

  • Each plan has its own formulary (list of covered drugs) and tiers.
  • Even if you take no medications, enrolling on time avoids a lifetime late-enrollment penalty.
  • Costs include a monthly premium, deductible, and copays.
  • Higher-income enrollees pay a Part D IRMAA surcharge.

Common questions

Next steps

Related topics

Educational only. This information is not personalized advice. For your specific situation, verify at Medicare.gov or speak with a licensed Medicare professional.