Medicare
News, insights and expert analysis on medicare from the team at Kiplinger.
Donna LeValley
Figuring out when to enroll in Medicare and which parts to enroll in can be daunting even for the savviest retirees. There are Part A, Part B, Part D, Medigap plans, Medicare Advantage plans and so on. This is a complicated federal health insurance program for retirement-age Americans so start with our beginner's guide to the essential things you should know about Medicare, then work your way through our other features, guides and news stories.
Latest
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Don't Toss It! Why Your Medicare Annual Notice of Change Matters
If you have Medicare Part D or a Medicare Advantage plan, reviewing your Annual Notice of Change is crucial. It can save you money and ensure you can still see your preferred doctors and hospitals.
By Donna LeValley
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Medicare Prior Authorization Expands to Ambulatory Surgical Centers
Starting in December, Medicare will begin requiring prior authorization for certain procedures when performed in ambulatory surgical centers.
By Donna LeValley
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Medicare Premiums 2026: Projected IRMAA Brackets and Surcharges for Parts B and D
Will you have to pay the monthly Medicare premium surcharge next year? It depends on a few factors.
By Donna LeValley
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Here Is How Much You'll Pay for Medicare Premiums and Deductibles in 2025
Medicare premiums for 2025, and the cost of Medicare Part A, Medicare Part B, and Part D premiums and deductibles, have gone up. Here is how much you'll pay in 2025.
By Donna LeValley
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Vaccines Medicare Covers for Free in 2025
The U.S. is experiencing an outbreak of measles and is on track to have the most whooping cough cases since 1948; these vaccines Medicare covers for free can keep you safe.
By Donna LeValley
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What’s the Best Medigap Plan for You?
Medicare The 10 Medigap plans offer different levels of benefits that pay for expenses, such as co-payments, not covered by original Medicare.
By Jackie Stewart
Medicare -
Why Is My First Medicare Bill So High?
Your first Medicare bill may be higher than expected for several reasons. If your premiums aren't taken out of your Social Security benefit, the bill can be huge.
By Donna LeValley
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I'm 60 with $2.8 million saved. I'm miserable working, but I need health insurance until Medicare kicks in. What are my options?
The 'health care desert' is real. We ask financial experts for advice.
By Maurie Backman
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18 Things Medicare Gives You for Free
Medicare doesn’t provide services entirely "for free," but some items and services are covered with no out-of-pocket costs for beneficiaries under specific conditions.
By Kathryn Pomroy