What Medicare Advantage plans really cost in 2026, beyond the $0 premium. Independent educational site. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. government, the federal Medicare program, or any insurance company. Figures are 2026 amounts published by CMS unless noted; check Medicare.gov for your situation.
- The Medicare Advantage out-of-pocket maximum in 2026, explained
How the in-network out-of-pocket cap works, what counts toward it, the higher combined cap for PPO plans, and how a bad year compares with Medigap.
- Medicare Advantage star ratings: what they measure and how to use them
How CMS rates plans from one to five stars, what goes into a rating, the five-star special enrollment period, and the limits of stars when choosing a plan.
- Medicare Special Needs Plans (SNPs): D-SNP, C-SNP and I-SNP
The three kinds of Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans, who qualifies, how they coordinate with Medicaid, and when they make sense.