Navigating the nuances of Medicare costs can seem daunting, especially when it comes to understanding additional charges such as the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA). As a health insurance agent expert, my aim in this blog post is to help you understand IRMAA, its relevance, and its costs for the year 2023.
What is IRMAA?
The Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount, or IRMAA, is an extra charge added to your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums. It’s applied to individuals whose modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is above a certain threshold. Simply put, if your income is higher, you’ll pay more for your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums.
Calculating IRMAA
IRMAA is calculated based on the MAGI reported on your IRS tax return from two years ago. So, for 2023, it will be based on your 2021 income. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses the most recent tax return information provided by the IRS to determine whether you’ll pay an IRMAA.
IRMAA for Medicare Part B and Part D
Here are the projected income brackets and associated IRMAA for Part B and Part D for 2023:
| MAGI Individual Tax Return | MAGI Joint Tax Return | Monthly IRMAA for Part B (2023) | Monthly IRMAA for Part D (2023) |
| $88,000 or less | $176,000 or less | $0 | $0 |
| $88,001 to $111,000 | $176,001 to $222,000 | $59.40 | $12.30 |
| $111,001 to $138,000 | $222,001 to $276,000 | $148.50 | $31.80 |
| $138,001 to $165,000 | $276,001 to $330,000 | $237.60 | $51.20 |
| $165,001 to $500,000 | $330,001 to $750,000 | $326.70 | $70.70 |
| $500,001 or more | $750,001 or more | $356.40 | $77.10 |
Please note that these are projected figures for 2023 and may vary slightly once official rates are announced.
Contesting IRMAA
If you experience a significant life-changing event that considerably reduces your income, such as retirement, you can request that the SSA reconsider the IRMAA. To do this, you’ll need to complete a Medicare IRMAA Life-Changing Event form or schedule an appointment with your local Social Security office.
In conclusion, understanding IRMAA is essential for high-income earners who are enrolled or about to enroll in Medicare Part B and Part D. It’s crucial to factor in these additional costs when planning for healthcare expenses in retirement. As always, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or insurance expert to understand how these charges might impact your unique situation. Remember, health insurance isn’t just about securing coverage—it’s about ensuring peace of mind and safeguarding your financial wellbeing in your golden years.