How long will Medicare pay for a nursing home?
Answer:
Original Medicare Part A may cover up to 100 days in a skilled nursing facility during a benefit period when Medicare's requirements are met. In 2026, beneficiaries generally pay $0 per day for days 1 through 20 after any applicable Part A deductible, $217 per day for days 21 through 100, and all costs beginning on day 101.
This is skilled nursing coverage, not a 100-day long-term care benefit. Medicare coverage can end earlier if the person no longer meets Medicare's requirements for skilled care.