Will my Medicare premiums rise in 2026?
Yes. Most people can expect a small rise in 2026. The Part B premium is projected to be about $206.50, but the final number comes out in the fall. The Part D base premium for 2026 is set at $38.99, and the Part D drug cap will be $2,100. Final Part B and IRMAA amounts […]
Social Security Repeals Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset
The Social Security Fairness Act, signed into law on January 5, 2025, repealed the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), two provisions that had previously reduced Social Security benefits for certain public sector employees. This legislative change is expected to positively impact approximately 3.2 million individuals, including teachers, firefighters, police officers, […]
Understanding Medicare IRMAA Charges and How to File an Appeal
As the new year begins, individuals enrolled in Medicare almost always see a change in their Medicare monthly premiums. Not only does Medicare often update the premium for Medicare Part B, but individuals might also find themselves subject to a Medicare IRMAA charge. Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) charges apply to Medicare beneficiaries whose […]
Understanding Medicare IRMAA Charges
Most every year Medicare adjusts the monthly premium for Medicare Part B. You will probably hear about premium changes in the news, talking with friends or even from me around November of each year. You will also receive your Social Security benefit notice in late November or early December, showing you what your benefit payment […]
Is It Possible to Reduce My Medicare Part B Premium?
If you are paying more than $170.10 per month in 2022 for your Medicare Part B, read on! While most people I speak with who are nearing Medicare age know they must pay certain monthly premiums when they enroll in Medicare, most do not realize that their Medicare premiums can be higher based upon their […]
How Are Social Security Benefits Calculated?
How your AIME determines your Social Security benefit payment.