GLOSSARY · MEDICARE

Medicare Part A

Hospital insurance — premium-free for most after 10 years of Medicare-taxed work.

Medicare 📋 Reviewed by InsureCo Editorial Team · Updated April 30, 2026
Quick definition: Hospital insurance — premium-free for most after 10 years of Medicare-taxed work.

Full explanation

Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care after a qualifying hospital stay, hospice, and limited home health care. It is premium-free for U.S. citizens with at least 40 quarters (10 years) of Medicare-taxed employment (yours or a spouse's). Without enough work credits, the 2026 monthly Part A premium is up to $518. Part A includes a per-benefit-period deductible ($1,676 in 2026) and daily coinsurance for long hospital stays. Medigap Plan G covers all Part A cost-sharing.

Need help with Medicare Part A? Call 256-800-4885 for free guidance from a licensed insurance agent in our nationwide network.