Be Prepared for Quicksand and Hidden Traps For several years now I’ve wanted to do a deep dive into Medicare Part D prescription drug costs. I had run various scenarios from time to time to illustrate some examples. But had not carved out time to put on my scuba gear and go for a dive. What are our seniors dealing with when shopping for their prescriptions? And, … [Read more...] about Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Costs
Medicare
The HSA-Medicare Connection (part 1)
When to stop HSA contributions before starting Medicare at 65 Have you been trying to figure out when to stop your contributions to an HSA? And why the rules are so hard to figure out? Not to mention, all the different information out there? What is going on? It’s important to realize there is a highly misunderstood HSA-Medicare connection. The rules are messy and … [Read more...] about The HSA-Medicare Connection (part 1)
Estimating Your Medicare Costs
Healthcare costs in retirement go way beyond “Medicare” Medicare. Medicare. What the heck? How can a program designed specifically to help our oldest Americans be so incredibly difficult to use? Why are there so many pieces and parts? What's with Medicare not covering all healthcare costs retiree need? And what drives those high Medicare costs? In short, how is it that … [Read more...] about Estimating Your Medicare Costs
Is a Medicare Advantage Plan Right for You?
A $0 monthly premium should be a clue Are there really any advantages to Medicare Advantage plans? Over 50% of retirees on Medicare have assigned their benefits to a private, for-profit health insurance company. I can assure you, these 32 million people have no idea what they’ve signed up for. But they think a zero-dollar monthly premium is a great advantage. But is a … [Read more...] about Is a Medicare Advantage Plan Right for You?
Medicare Part A Retroactive Period Effect on HSA Contributions
(Part 2) There’s a 9-month retroactive period. Not a 6-month look-back So many older workers are caught off guard when it comes to signing up for Medicare Part A. These are folks well past age 65. Surprise! Part A comes with a retroactive period. And it has a nasty effect on HSA contributions. The vast majority of folks I work with have continued employment after … [Read more...] about Medicare Part A Retroactive Period Effect on HSA Contributions
