Medicare Jerry

09/16/2025

I am currently in the continuing education process for both my Medicare and Securities licenses. I thought I'd share a couple of interesting factoids.

Social Security COLA for 2026 is currently projected at 2.8%. That's about a $52 increase for the average beneficiary.

Medicare Part B base premium is expected to increase to $206.50. That's a $21.50 increase. This is looking to be the largest increase in Medicare history. This is directly tied to the cost of medical services and has nothing to do with any political party or legislation.

Prescription drug costs are set to increase.

09/17/2024

The 2023 national median cost of a home health aide hired through an agency was $33 an hour, up from $20 an hour in 2015. Those needing round-the-clock in-home care can expect a median cost of about $290,000, more than double the annual median cost of a private room in a nursing home and four times the cost of a private room in an assisted living facility.-The Wall Street Journal, September 4, 2024

Just remember that Medicare doesn't pay for any of these expenses. Let me know if you'd like to explore options for planning for these expenses.

05/24/2024

02/08/2023

Do you create a legacy? Perhaps become an example? How do you want your grandchildren to remember you? This platelet donation is made on my favorite granddaughter's fourth birthday. (Yes, I only have one.) So I think I have made over 60 donations during her life. I hope she never is in need of any.

01/03/2023

"Middle age is when you’re faced with two temptations, and you choose the one that will get you home at 9:00 o’clock."-Ronald Reagan

01/01/2023

Keeping the New Years tradition. Beautiful day for the first donation of the year.

12/24/2022

Merry Christmas! In the spirit of giving, I've made my 21st and last platelet donation of 2022. When I think of gifts, this is the cheapest to give as it costs nothing but time. In terms of value, the most expensive gift I could give as it can give life to those in need.

Need a New Year's resolution? Please consider donating. My next appointment is scheduled for January 1.

10/31/2022

When taxes on Social Security benefits were first introduced in 1983, just 8% of eligible families paid taxes on benefits. In 2021, that number has climbed to an estimated 56%.-CNBC, October 20, 2022

10/06/2022

It's that time of the year. Please be careful with your information. With all the changes, you probably need to review your coverage this year. However, please be careful with those unsolicited phone calls or offers that sound too good to be true.

Medicare fraud preys on vulnerable, older people and costs the government billions of dollars a year. Seniors and their families can take steps to avoid it.

10/05/2022

Yes, it's time to review your Medicare insurance plans, your Medicare Supplement, Medicare Advantage, and your Prescription Part D plan. However, it's equally important to remember to help others in need. The other day I was able to do my 18th donation for 2023. In checking the Red Cross application, I guess I hit a couple of milestones. Please, if you can, please donate.

09/30/2022

CMS, the regulator for Medicare, is requiring a new disclosure for representatives who market Medicare insurance options. Here is the disclosure.

“We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.”
Not Affiliated with Medicare or the Government -- Not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency."