Nov 20 Medicare announced its premiums for 2018. Here's what you need to know. By Philip Moeller The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has announced that the 2018 premium for Part B of Medicare will remain at $134 a month. But even with no change, millions of Social Security recipients will pay sharply higher Part B premiums… Continue reading
Nov 15 How does a married couple make the most of Medicare and an employer health plan? By Philip Moeller A couple finds that insuring the husband through the wife's employer plan is too expensive and doesn't cover much. Could a Medicare option save them money?… Continue reading
Nov 08 Does it matter where you buy a Medigap plan? By Philip Moeller A grandfather who is planning a move to another state wonders if it matters where he buys a Medigap plan. Continue reading
Nov 01 I care for my aging mother 24/7. Can I get help? By Philip Moeller Medicare does not cover the kind of in-home custodial care this reader needs. Does she have any options?… Continue reading
Oct 26 It can pay to pick a new Medicare Part D drug plan. Here's how to start shopping. By Philip Moeller Medicare Part D prescription drug plans are, for those without serious health and hospitalization needs, the most important feature of their Medicare coverage. And even if you like your current plan, you still should spend some time during open enrollment… Continue reading
Oct 18 Why this Social Security boost is no boon for lower earners By Philip Moeller Millions of people receiving Social Security and Medicare will suffer next year from financial indigestion. Here's why. Continue reading
Oct 11 4 tips for making the most of Medicare's open enrollment By Philip Moeller Medicare’s annual open enrollment season begins Oct. 15 and extends through Dec. 7. Here are a few preparatory pointers to help enrollees take full advantage of the opportunity. Continue reading
Oct 04 I'm 66 and I just lost my job. How do we maximize our Social Security? By Philip Moeller A reader needs to apply for Social Security benefits right now after losing his job at full retirement age. But what if he finds a new job?… Continue reading
Sep 27 Can I get more affordable long-term care insurance? By Philip Moeller Long-term care costs can be very, very high and Medicare does not pay for it. Continue reading
Sep 23 HHS hints at major changes to Medicare that could mean higher costs for patients By Erin Mershon, STAT WASHINGTON — The Trump administration is signaling it will pursue significant changes to Medicare that could put beneficiaries on the hook for higher costs. In an informal proposal on Wednesday, federal health officials hinted at several new pilot programs it… Continue reading