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Medicare Advantage MOOP: What to Watch for in 2026

Medicare Advantage MOOP: What to Watch for in 2026

by Matt Feret | Aug 10, 2025 | Medicare Advantage, Medicare Advice

If you’re on Medicare Advantage, you’ve probably seen the term Maximum Out-of-Pocket (MOOP).But do you know how high it can go in 2026 — and what that means for your wallet? Let’s break it down in plain English. What is a MOOP (and why does it matter)? Every Medicare...
IRMAA Appeals (SSA-44): How to Lower Your Medicare Premiums in 2026

IRMAA Appeals (SSA-44): How to Lower Your Medicare Premiums in 2026

by Matt Feret | Aug 7, 2025 | Medicare Advice, Original Medicare

Short version: If your Medicare bill jumped because of IRMAA but your income has dropped, you may be able to appeal and pay less. The appeal runs through Social Security using Form SSA-44. Below is the plain-English, step-by-step. If you’re new to IRMAA and want the...
Does Medicare Call You at Home? (2026 Guide to Real vs. Scam Calls)

Does Medicare Call You at Home? (2026 Guide to Real vs. Scam Calls)

by Matt Feret | Aug 4, 2025 | Medicare Advice

Short version: Most calls claiming to be “Medicare” are junk. But does Medicare call you at home ever? Sometimes—in limited situations, usually after you’ve contacted them or when a contractor is following up on something you already received in the mail. Everything...
What Is the Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Birthday Rule?

What Is the Medigap (Medicare Supplement) Birthday Rule?

by Matt Feret | Aug 3, 2025 | Medicare Supplement

Will My Birthday Let Me Switch Medigap Plans Without Health Questions? If you already have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, you may have heard about something called the “Birthday Rule.” In short, it gives some people a once-a-year chance to switch Medigap plans...
Medicare and COBRA – What You Need to Know Before Making a Costly Mistake

Medicare and COBRA – What You Need to Know Before Making a Costly Mistake

by Matt Feret | Aug 1, 2025 | Medicare Advice

Will COBRA Cover You After 65? If you’re retiring or just lost your job, you may be offered COBRA coverage. Sounds good, right? A little safety net before figuring out your next step. But here’s the catch: once you’re Medicare-eligible, COBRA doesn’t work the way you...
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