Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance to retired individuals, regardless of their medical condition, and certain younger people with disabilities or end-stage renal disease. Medicare has several parts, many of which include a premium cost based on your tax filing status and income. If your income is high, in some cases you may be subject to a premium surcharge called the income-related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA). What does Medicare cover? Medicare … [Read more...]
What’s New for 2025?
To help you stay informed, here are five changes you can look forward to in the new year. Higher catch-up contributions for some. As of January 1, individuals ages 60 through 63 may be able to make increased catch-up contributions (if offered) to their workplace plan. The catch-up amount for people age 50 and older is $7,500 for 2025, but for people ages 60 through 63, the limit will be $11,250.1 Cap on out-of-pocket Medicare drug costs. A bit of welcome news for people with Medicare Part … [Read more...]
Birthday Benefits Quiz
Remember when you turned 16 and rushed to get your driver's license? Or earned the right to vote at 18 and enjoyed the privileges and responsibilities of adulthood at 21? There aren't many legal changes associated with birthdays after that until you turn 50, and then there are plenty. Can you match these ages to the related federal benefits and tax responsibilities? One age will be used twice. 50 55 59½ 62 65 67 70 73 75 ___ 1. Eligible for full Social … [Read more...]
Social Security and Medicare Face Financial Challenges
Based on the "intermediate" assumptions in this year's report, the Social Security Administration is projecting that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), which will be announced in the fall of 2020, will be 2.3%. This COLA would apply to benefits starting in January 2021. Most Americans will eventually receive Social Security and Medicare benefits. Each year, the Trustees of the Social Security and Medicare Trust Funds release lengthy reports to Congress that assess the health of these … [Read more...]
Understanding Your Paycheck
“It's exciting to earn your first paycheck, but you should know that the information on the pay stub or online statement could be important to you as well.” Congratulations! You've just landed a new job. Here are some important things to be aware of before you receive your first paycheck. When will I receive my paycheck? How often will you be paid? Typically, your payday will depend on the company you work for and which state you work in. You might be paid on a weekly, bi-weekly, … [Read more...]
Social Security and Medicare
Full Retirement Age If you were born in 1942 or earlier, you are already eligible for full Social Security benefits. The following chart will guide you in determining your full retirement age... Read More... Social Security & Medicare … [Read more...]
The Future of Social Security and Medicare: Here’s What Trustees Are Projecting
“Based on the "intermediate" assumptions in this year's report, the Social Security Administration is projecting that the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), announced in the fall of 2019, will be 1.8%. This COLA would apply to benefits starting in January 2020.” Most Americans will eventually receive Social Security and Medicare benefits. Each year, the Trustees of the Social Security and Medicare Trust Funds release lengthy reports to Congress that assess the health of these important … [Read more...]
Quiz: How Much Have You Thought About Health and Health-Care Costs in Retirement?
“According to the 2018 Senior Report from America's Health Rankings, social isolation is associated with increased mortality, poor health status, and greater use of health-care resources. The risk of social isolation for seniors is highest in Mississippi and Louisiana and lowest in Utah and New Hampshire.” When planning for retirement, it's important to consider a wide variety of factors. One of the most important is health and its associated costs. Thinking about your future health and the … [Read more...]
Down the Donut Hole: The Medicare Coverage Gap
One of the most confusing Medicare provisions is the prescription drug coverage gap, often called the "donut hole." It may be clearer if you consider the gap within the annual "lifecycle" of Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage. This also applies to drug coverage that is integrated into a Part C Medicare Advantage Plan. Annual deductible. Prescription drug plans typically have an annual deductible not exceeding $405 in 2018. Before reaching the deductible, you will pay the full cost of … [Read more...]
Medicare Open Enrollment Begins October 15
Medicare Open Enrollment begins October 15th. · Have questions about your coverage choices? · Just turned 65 and are new to Medicare options? · Need help with your prescription drug plan choices? · Are unsure if you’re eligible for EPIC? · Want to work with someone who is familiar with your situation? We can help you! Call Sharon or Elisabeth today to schedule an appointment. Available times will fill up quickly. What is the … [Read more...]
