Matt’s Corner – Blog
Welcome to the Prepare for Medicare blog!
Welcome to the Prepare for Medicare blog! I’m thrilled you’re here. I’ll use this blog space on the website to keep you up-to-speed with things that affect your Medicare coverage, current events and important dates and timelines.
I wrote my book, Prepare for Medicare – The Insider’s Guide to Buying Medicare Insurance to help you quickly understand Medicare, narrow down your choices, purchase a plan with the help of an expert Medicare insurance agent or DIY, and move on with your life.
That said, Medicare rules change all the time and there’s always something new! Keep paying attention to this space and I’ll post updates regularly.
If you’d like to submit a question, please email me at matt@prepareformedicare.com.
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To your wealth, wisdom, and wellness!
How to Avoid Medicare Late Enrollment Penalties
Medicare late enrollment penalties can be a costly surprise if you’re not careful. Let’s explore how to avoid these penalties and ensure you have the coverage you need without any added expenses.
How and When to Enroll in Medicare if You’re on SSDI
Enrolling in Medicare when you're receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) comes with its own set of rules and timelines. Let's explore how and when to enroll in Medicare if you're on SSDI to ensure you get the coverage you need. Understanding the Basics...
How to Calculate Your Modified Adjusted Gross Income for IRMAA in 2025
Understanding how your income affects your Medicare premiums is crucial, especially when it comes to IRMAA. Your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) determines whether you'll pay additional surcharges on top of your standard Medicare Part B and Part D premiums....
Understanding IRMAA: What It Is and How It Affects Your Medicare Premiums in 2025
If you're a high-income retiree, you might have come across the term IRMAA while dealing with your Medicare premiums. IRMAA, or Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount, is an additional surcharge that higher-income beneficiaries pay for their Medicare Part B and Part...
Changes to IRMAA Appeals Process in 2025: What High-Income Retirees Need to Know
If you’re a high-income retiree, you’ve likely encountered IRMAA—the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount that adds surcharges to your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums. And if your income has gone down or you’ve experienced a major life event, you might be...
Medicare Advantage Plan Exits in 2025
Several insurers made the decision to exit the Medicare Advantage market in 2025 due to various financial pressures and changes in reimbursement rates. Here are some of the major exits: Aetna: Exited several counties and is expected to lose up to 10% of its Medicare...
What to Do If You Missed the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
What to Do If You Missed the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) Missing the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) can feel like a huge setback, but don't panic. There are still options available to make changes to your Medicare coverage. Let’s explore what you...
Medicare Part A Only and COBRA – A Cautionary Tale
Hi Matt, I want to relay a cautionary tale about Medicare and COBRA coverage. The background: I’m over age 65 and eligible for Medicare, so I took Medicare Part A and waived Medicare Part B and kept my employer’s group health insurance while I was still working. As...
Switching Medicare Advantage Plans: When, How, and Optimal Strategies
Welcome, my friends! I'm Matt Feret, and if there's one thing my inbox is full of, it's heartfelt questions from many of you feeling anchored down by your current Medicare Advantage plans. You want to navigate these waters confidently, seeking clarity on switching to...
Understanding Medicare: A Comprehensive Guide
2024 IRMAA Rules for Medicare: What You Need to Know
Introduction The landscape of Medicare is ever-evolving, and one crucial aspect that Medicare beneficiaries must stay abreast of is the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). As we step into 2024, understanding the nuances of the latest IRMAA rules is very...
When is the 2024 Medicare Open Enrollment Period?
*Updated 1/11/2024 2024 Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period Although the Annual Election Period (AEP) ends on December 7 every year, that does not necessarily mean that you’re completely out of luck if you still want to make a change to your Medicare insurance...