Medicare Part B premiums are the primary item automatically deducted from monthly Social Security payments for most beneficiaries, ensuring continuous coverage. Other automatic deductions include income-related adjustments for high earners (IRMAA), voluntary federal income tax withholding, repayments for Social Security overpayments, and optionally, Medicare Part D or Part C plan premiums.
Deductions from a Social Security check primarily include voluntary Medicare Part B premiums, court-ordered payments (child support, alimony), repayment for Social Security overpayments, and sometimes federal taxes or a portion for government debt; if you're still working, earning above limits can also reduce your benefit, and an offset can occur if you also receive workers' compensation.
Part B (Medical Insurance)
Covers certain doctors' services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventive services. premium deducted automatically from their Social Security benefit payment (or Railroad Retirement Board benefit payment).
The extra $144 added to Social Security usually comes from the Medicare Part B Giveback benefit, offered by some Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, which pays back some or all your Part B premium, showing up as extra money in your check if it's deducted from your Social Security. To qualify, you need Original Medicare (Parts A & B), pay your own Part B premium, live in a plan's service area, and enroll in a specific Medicare Advantage plan that offers this "rebate," with the amount varying by plan and location.
You will pay federal income taxes on your benefits if your combined income (50% of your benefit amount plus any other earned income) exceeds $25,000/year filing individually or $32,000/year filing jointly. You can pay the IRS directly or withhold taxes from your payment.
Yes, Medicare Part B premiums are typically deducted automatically from your monthly Social Security (or Railroad Retirement Board) benefit payment if you're receiving them; if you aren't receiving Social Security yet, Medicare will bill you directly. This deduction happens before your benefit is deposited and is a standard process for most people enrolled in both programs.
The new senior tax deduction of up to $6,000 for single filers and $12,000 for joint filers, was created to help cover taxes on Social Security benefits. Taking the new senior deduction helps to reduce your taxable income, which can mean less tax or potentially an even bigger tax refund when you file your return.
There could be several reasons why Social Security stopped withholding your Medicare Part B premium. One common reason is that your income has exceeded the threshold for premium assistance. Another reason could be that there was a mistake or error in your records.
Note: If you receive social security benefits, you can request changes to your withholding at https://www.ssa.gov/manage- benefits/request-withhold-taxes, or contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213, or you can complete Form W-4V and submit it to the SSA.
For the 2025 tax year, seniors (age 65+) get a new $6,000 bonus deduction (or $12,000 for couples) under the "One Big Beautiful Bill," stacked on top of the existing senior standard deduction, phasing out for incomes over $75k (single) or $150k (joint), available through 2028, and requires an SSN and joint filing if married.
Your Social Security Statement (Statement) is available to view online by opening a my Social Security account. Millions of people of all ages now use these online accounts to learn about their future Social Security benefits and current earnings history.
Medicare payroll taxes play a vital role in funding the Medicare program, which provides essential health insurance primarily for seniors and certain individuals with disabilities. These deductions are not merely a line item on your paycheck; they are a critical investment in your future healthcare coverage.
Your CalPERS health coverage will automatically be canceled the first day of the month after you turn 65. Review Cancellation of CalPERS Health Coverage for information on reinstating your health coverage.
You can avoid paying Medicare Part B premiums by delaying enrollment if you have creditable employer coverage (your own or spouse's job with 20+ employees) until that coverage ends (within 8 months to avoid penalties), or by qualifying for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP) to have state/federal funds pay for it due to low income. Other ways to save include using HSA funds, appealing high Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts (IRMAA) for life changes, or enrolling on time during your Initial Enrollment Period.
Here are some of the biggest Medicare mistakes to avoid:
For 2026, the standard Medicare Part B premium deducted from most Social Security checks is $202.90 per month, with higher premiums for higher incomes and a separate annual deductible of $283; some beneficiaries pay less due to the hold harmless rule. Your exact amount depends on your income from two years prior, and you'll also pay 20% coinsurance for most services after meeting the deductible.