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Category: Costs

Costs

Part D in 2026: What the New $2,100 Limit Means—And What To Do This Fall

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Big Part D changes kicked in for 2025, and they keep evolving for 2026. Use September to review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) (arrives by Sept 30) and prep for the fall shopping season. The headline numbers 2025: Your out-of-pocket (OOP) spending on Part D drugs is capped at $2,000 for the year. 2026: The OOP threshold is $2,100 (the 2025 cap, indexed). Once you hit it, you owe $0 for covered Part D […]

Important SSA Update: No More Paper Benefit Checks Starting September 30, 2025

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If you currently receive your Social Security benefits by paper check, you’ll need to take action soon. Starting September 30, 2025, federal benefit payments will switch almost entirely to electronic payments. This change is happening to make payments safer, faster, and easier for everyone. What This Means for You Paper checks will be phased out. After September 30, most benefits will be delivered electronically. Faster access to money. Payments are deposited directly into your account […]

Reading Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)

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Every August/September, your Medicare Advantage (MA) or Part D drug plan drops a thick envelope in your mailbox titled “Plan Annual Notice of Change (ANOC).” It’s the plan’s yearly “heads-up” on what will look different starting January 1, and by rule it has to reach you no later than September 30. Why the deadline? CMS wants to give you at least two weeks to digest any surprises before the Annual Election Period (AEP) opens Oct […]

Vaccinations: What Medicare Covers At No Charge

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August might still feel like pool-weather, but it’s the perfect month to lock in the vaccines that will carry you safely through flu-season and the winter COVID-wave—and, new this year for many of us, RSV protection. Here’s the quick low-down for Medicare beneficiaries 65-plus (and younger friends with certain conditions). Why Book in August? Peak protection on time. It takes about two weeks for your immune system to build top-shelf antibodies after a shot, so […]

Beat the Heat: Hydration & Safety Tips for Older Adults

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Summer is here, and forecasters are calling for another stretch of above‑average temperatures across much of the country. That’s more than just an inconvenience if you’re 65 or older: heat‑related deaths in our age group jumped 85 percent between 2000 and 2021—a reminder that hot weather deserves real respect. Below are quick, actionable steps to stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay out of the ER this July. 1. Hydrate Before You’re Thirsty Aim for a glass of water […]

CMS Releases 2025 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles

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On November 8, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2025 premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for the Medicare Part A and Part B programs, and the 2025 Medicare Part D income-related monthly adjustment amounts.  CMS Full Press Release HERE 2025 At A Glance: The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B enrollees will be $185.00 for 2025, an increase of $10.30 from $174.70 in 2024. The annual deductible for all […]

3 Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)!

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The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is a crucial time of year for Medicare recipients to reevaluate their coverage and make necessary changes. This period, which runs from October 15 to December 7 annually, offers the opportunity to find more affordable coverage, reduce prescription drug costs, or even get more coverage for a similar price. To help you make the most of the AEP, we’ve identified three common mistakes to avoid. Ignoring Your Medicare Annual […]

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) revealed on Thursday, August 31st 2023, that the initial group of ten Medicare Part D medications slated for negotiation under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has been identified.

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These drugs have been designated based on the outlined criteria within the IRA. This legislation mandates that CMS prioritize drugs with the highest Medicare expenditure and minimal competition, among other considerations. The resulting roster encompasses medications that are crucial for numerous Medicare recipients in treating various conditions such as cancer, diabetes, blood clotting, heart failure, autoimmune disorders, and chronic kidney disease. Negotiations regarding pricing will commence this year between CMS and the participating pharmaceutical manufacturers. […]

National Immunization Awareness Month

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August marks Immunization Awareness Month, a time when we focus on the health of seniors by educating on immunizations. Seniors staying up-to-date with vaccinations can play an important role in preventive care. Fortunately, Medicare Part B and D plans offer comprehensive coverage for a range of vaccines, ensuring that older adults can access the protection they need to lead healthier, active lives. The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act Lowers Health Care Costs for Millions of […]

5 Tips to Protect Yourself from Medicare Fraud: Stay Safe and Informed

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As a senior citizen, you rely on Medicare to provide you with the medical care you need to stay healthy.  Unfortunately, scammers and fraudsters also know how valuable your Medicare benefits are, and they will go to great lengths to try to trick you into giving up your personal information or signing up for services you do not need. Here are some tips to help you avoid Medicare fraud:       1.            Protect your Medicare card: […]