Short answer: Medicare Part B covers the seasonal flu vaccine. You pay nothing for the covered vaccine when the doctor, pharmacy, or other health care provider accepts assignment for administering it.
Original Medicare coverage
Part B covers the seasonal influenza vaccine as a preventive service. Coverage is usually available once each flu season. The vaccine can be provided in many settings, including a doctor’s office or a pharmacy that can bill Medicare.
The flu vaccine is separate from other vaccines. COVID-19 and pneumococcal vaccines are also covered by Part B under their own rules. Many other adult vaccines are covered through Part D rather than Part B.
Eligibility and limits
A person with Medicare Part B is eligible for the seasonal flu vaccine. Medicare.gov states that the usual frequency is one vaccine each flu season. A provider may recommend a particular vaccine based on age or health history. Coverage of an additional dose in the same season depends on Medicare requirements and the medical circumstances.
Costs
There is no Part B deductible, copayment, or coinsurance for the covered flu vaccine when the provider accepts assignment. A separate office visit may have cost sharing if other medical services are furnished during the appointment. Ask whether the location can bill Medicare before receiving the vaccine.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans cover the Part B flu vaccine without cost sharing when applicable rules are met. Plans may direct members to network pharmacies or providers for routine vaccination. Check the plan’s current vaccine instructions.
What to do next
- Ask a health care provider which seasonal vaccine is appropriate for you.
- Confirm that the pharmacy or office accepts Medicare assignment or is in the plan network.
- Bring the Medicare card and any plan card.
- Keep the vaccination record.
Coverage is determined from the claim, the patient’s eligibility, provider status, and applicable Medicare rules. A provider’s recommendation does not guarantee payment. Before a planned service, ask the provider what will be billed and ask Medicare or the plan whether any coverage review is required.
Sources
Last reviewed: August 2026. Medicare rules and plan benefits can change.