Medicare.gov

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine

Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers FDA-approved and FDA-authorized COVID-19 vaccines.

  • Covered by Part B
  • Preventive Service
  • You pay nothing if your provider accepts assignment  

Description

A COVID-19 vaccine helps lower your chances of becoming severely sick from COVID-19 by working with the body’s natural defenses to develop immunity (protection) against the virus. COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. Get details about the vaccine.

Coverage details

Part B covers the updated (2025–2026 formula) Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, or Novavax COVID-19 vaccine for anyone who has Medicare.

Bring your red, white, and blue Medicare card with you when you get the vaccine so your doctor, other health care provider or pharmacy can bill Medicare. 

Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine at home?

Medicare also covers other COVID-19 services. Go to "Related resources" at the bottom of the page.

Who's eligible

Medicare Part B covers the updated 2025–2026 COVID-19 vaccines:

  • Moderna Spikevax: Anyone 6 months or older
  • Moderna mNexspike: Anyone 12 years or older
  • Pfizer-BioNTech: Anyone 5 years or older
  • Novavax: Anyone 12 years or older

 Check CDC.gov  to find your vaccination schedule. 

Costs

You pay nothing if your doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment for giving you the vaccine.

What if my provider charged me to get a COVID-19 vaccine?

Ask your doctor or healthcare provider how much your test, item, or service will cost.

Your doctor may recommend services that Medicare does not cover or offers too frequently. This could end up in additional costs for you. Make sure to ask your doctor about the reasons for these recommendations and what Medicare will actually cover.

Specific amounts you could owe depend on:

  • Other insurance you may have

  • How much your doctor charges

  • If your doctor accepts assignment

  • The type of facility

  • Where you get your test, item, or service