Explainer
Medicare's Financing Mix Has Changed
Medicare's sources of income have shifted as the program's components have changed.
![[ALT TEXT]](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6a4ce2573c5e347b9450aeb1/6ab27b3420f78cbf3a130c2f_6ab13cbd5ca61afd00e932ce_08_Medicare_Financing_Mix_Changed.png)
What This Graphic Shows
The graphic compares the payroll tax share of Medicare total income in 1976 and 2022 and connects the decline to growth in Parts B and D relative to Part A.
Key Takeaway
Medicare is not financed solely—or even predominantly today—by the payroll tax.
Verification Status:
Verified — Current
Last Verified:
September 21, 2026
Sources
Review the sources used to support this visual.
Ohio Common Ground Research Center
Healthcare Affordability Across the Generations: An Age-30 and Life-Stage Comparison
September 2, 2026
View Source →Explore More
Continue exploring the issue or return to the complete OCG Visual Library.