medicare
Medicare Part A trust fund depletion date
Medicare Part A hospitalization trust fund will be depleted in 2033, according to the 2026 Medicare Trustees’ report. However, the Medicare Part A hospitalization insurance program should generate enough ongoing revenue to pay about 89 percent of the promised benefits…
Social Security Board of Trustees: Projection for Combined Trust Funds Remains Consistent with Prior Year
The Social Security Board of Trustees yesterday released its annual report on the financial status of the Social Security Trust Funds. The combined reserves of the Old-Age and Survivors Insurance and Disability Insurance (OASI and DI) Trust Funds are projected…
The Commission on Sustaining Medicare and Social Security Act
Congressman Gus Bilirakis has reintroduced the Commission on Sustaining Medicare and Social Security Act. H.R. 9089 would establish an independent, bipartisan commission of experts tasked with identifying solutions to ensure the long-term financial stability of both Medicare and Social Security…
Combating Medicare Fraud
Did you know that Medicare fraud, abuse, and errors cost American taxpayers about $60 billion per year? This might be a result of scammers and fraudsters, or simple (or deliberate) mistakes by providers but, nevertheless, the cost to taxpayers and…
The only Social Security certainty? American’s are largely opposed to change
One thing is certain, according to a recent survey: Americans are largely opposed (with only one exception) to any changes to the Social Security program. But the problem is that unless changes are made, the program will become “insolvent” in…
Proposed modernization of the Medicare Savings Programs
To simplify access to the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPS), the Aging & Disability Health Policy Lab has drafted four model policies. Medicare Savings Programs are special benefit programs sponsored by state Medicaid agencies. They are designed to relieve some (or…
CMS announces aggressive nationwide crackdown on fraud
In a continuing effort to stop fraud before it starts, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is taking decisive action to protect Medicare beneficiaries and taxpayer dollars through implementation of a six-month, nationwide data-driven moratorium on new Medicare…
Turning 65? Here’s what to know about Medicare!
Age 65 is a major milestone. It’s not just another age - it’s the age at which the nation’s premier healthcare plan becomes available to you, providing you with healthcare coverage for the rest of your life. But Medicare can…
Dealing with IRMAA: Some Financial Management Suggestions
Becoming subject to Medicare’s income-related monthly Adjusted amount (IRMAA) provision can be an unwelcomed surprise. Although it’s been in place since 2003, this portion of the Medicare rulebook still catches some off guard, and the resulting impact on Medicare costs…
Ask Rusty - Must I Set Up a Social Security Account to Enroll in Medicare?
Dear Rusty: I turn 65 this November 2026. Someone told me I need to set up a Social Security account at least 3 months ahead of time before applying for Medicare for the first time. I do not intend…