In 2026, Original Medicare covers eligible skilled nursing facility care for up to 100 days in a benefit period. Days 1–20 have no daily SNF coinsurance after the applicable Part A deductible, days 21–100 cost $217 per day, and the patient pays all SNF costs after day 100.
The 2026 Original Medicare cost schedule
The 2026 Part A inpatient deductible is $1,736 per benefit period. For an eligible SNF stay, days 1–20 have $0 daily coinsurance after the applicable deductible, days 21–100 have $217 daily coinsurance, and days 101 and later are not covered under the Part A SNF benefit.
A patient who already paid the Part A deductible for the hospital stay in the same benefit period generally does not pay a second Part A deductible solely for the SNF transfer.
One hundred days is a maximum, not a promise
Medicare covers only days when all requirements remain satisfied and daily skilled care is reasonable and necessary. Coverage may end earlier when skilled services are no longer required, even if days remain in the benefit period.
Medicare Advantage costs and authorization can differ
Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least the Medicare benefit, but their copay schedule, network requirements, prior authorization, and three-day-rule policies can differ. Ask the plan for the facility-specific cost and authorization decision before admission.
- Ask whether the facility is in network.
- Ask for the copay by day of stay.
- Confirm whether prior authorization is approved and for how many days.
- Ask what notice and appeal rights apply if coverage is ending.
Frequently asked questions
How much is skilled nursing facility care under Original Medicare in 2026?
For an eligible stay, days 1–20 have $0 daily SNF coinsurance after the applicable Part A deductible, days 21–100 cost $217 per day, and the patient pays all SNF costs after day 100.
Does Medicare always pay for 100 SNF days?
No. One hundred days is the maximum per benefit period. Coverage lasts only while the patient continues to meet the skilled-care requirements.
Are Medicare Advantage SNF copays the same?
Not always. Plan copays, networks, and authorization rules can differ. Contact the plan for the exact facility-specific cost.