Are Medicare Benefits Taxable?

The Medicare system is often very complicated to maneuver. What are the differences between payroll taxes, premiums and Medicare benefits? Do you owe taxes on the health insurance benefits you receive?

Taxability

• Though your income might affect the amount you pay for your Medicare premiums, you do not have to pay taxes on your Medicare benefits.

Eligibility

• Medicare is a health insurance program run by the federal government. Usually, people over the age of 65 and people with certain disabilities are eligible to enroll.

Benefits

• Medicare is made up of two main parts: Part A, which covers hospitalizations, and Part B, which covers medical expenses, such as visits to your doctor.

Payroll Taxes

• When you are employed, your employer withholds a portion of each paycheck for Medicare taxes, which helps to keep the Medicare program running.

Premiums

• Most people do not pay premiums for Part A of Medicare. There is, however, a premium associated with Part B. If you make more than a certain amount of money, you might have to pay a higher premium for Part B.

Income

• Calculation of payroll taxes and Part B premiums are based on income. However, income is not a factor in determining taxes on Medicare benefits. You will not be taxed on your benefits, regardless of how much you earn.