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What’s IRMAA and Why Is My Medicare Premium Higher?



If you just got your Medicare premium letter and noticed your payment is higher than you expected, you’re not alone.


A lot of folks turning 65 (or already on Medicare) are surprised to see something called IRMAA on their notice. So, let’s break this down and make it simple.


Q: What is IRMAA?

A: IRMAA stands for Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. It’s an extra charge added to your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums if you earn over a certain income level.

Think of it as a surcharge for higher earners — based on the idea that those with more income help cover more of the program’s costs.


Q: Who has to pay IRMAA?

A: Social Security looks at your tax return from two years ago.


For example:


  • Your 2025 Medicare premiums are based on your 2023 tax return.

  • If your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) was above $103,000 (single) or $206,000 (married filing jointly), you’ll pay extra.


The higher your income, the higher the IRMAA surcharge.


Q: How much extra are we talking about?

A: It depends on your income tier, but here’s a rough idea:


  • Standard Part B premium (around $185/month)

  • With IRMAA, it could rise to $245, $350, $455, or even higher, depending on your income.

  • Part D plans will also add an IRMAA surcharge, on top of the plan’s regular premium.


It’s not a one-size-fits-all number — it’s calculated in brackets, kind of like tax rates.


Q: Can I appeal if my income dropped?

A: Yes!


If you’ve had a life-changing event — like retirement, divorce, death of a spouse, or loss of income — you can file a request for reconsideration with Social Security.


You’ll need to provide documentation, but if approved, they can reduce or remove your IRMAA charge.


Q: Does IRMAA last forever?

A: Not necessarily.


Since Social Security reassesses your income every year, if your income goes down, your IRMAA can go away. But if your income stays high, the surcharge will stay too.


Bottom Line


IRMAA can feel like a frustrating surprise, but you don’t have to navigate it alone.

We help people every day understand why their Medicare premiums are higher, explore if they qualify for an appeal, and plan ahead to manage these costs.


If you’re seeing an IRMAA charge and want help figuring out what it means for you, reach out. We’re here to walk you through it — clearly and calmly.

 
 
 

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