Medicare
News, insights and expert analysis on medicare from the team at Kiplinger.
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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4 Pro Tips for Successfully Scaling the Medicare Mountain
Attempting to conquer Medicare without a plan is risky. The safest route requires a thorough understanding of your options and never leaves decisions to chance.
By Cathy DeWitt Dunn, CDFA®, FRC®
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What is the IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount)?
IRMAA is a surcharge added to your Medicare Part B and Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage premiums if your income is above a certain level. Here's what you need to know.
By Donna LeValley
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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
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Medicare Premiums 2026: IRMAA Brackets and Surcharges for Parts B and D
Do you have to pay the monthly Medicare premium surcharge this year? It depends.
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 -
How to Avoid Medicare Late Enrollment Penalties Forever
Whether you're still working or plan to retire this year, understanding the 2026 late penalties for Parts A, B and D is essential for your financial health.
By Donna LeValley
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The 'Take That Uncle Sam' Rule of Retirement Spending
Here's how to reduce your tax bill when you withdraw money in retirement.
By Donna Fuscaldo
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Prior Authorization for Traditional Medicare Patients Has Started in 6 States
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has implemented prior authorization requirements for certain traditional fee-for-service Medicare services in six states starting this year.
By Donna LeValley
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How to Dodge the 'Medicare Tax' Before You Retire
A Roth conversion may be the key to avoiding costly IRMAA surcharges on your premiums.
By Donna Fuscaldo
