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How-to · Health care

Ask Social Security to lower a Medicare income surcharge

A life-changing event that reduces household income may support a request to lower a Medicare Part B or Part D income-related surcharge.

Steps

3 steps
  1. Use SSA-44 for a life-changing eventSign in to fill out and submit SSA-44, Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount–Life Changing Event. Listed events include marriage, divorce, death of a spouse, loss of income and an employer settlement payment.
  2. Use mail or fax if neededComplete SSA-44 and fax or mail it with evidence to a Social Security office.
  3. Call for an amended tax returnIf your request is based on an amended income-tax return, call 800-772-1213 and ask about lowering IRMAA.
  • How-to

    Add Medicare Part B after employer coverage ends

    Health care
    1. Check the employer-coverage special enrollment periodIf active employer group coverage through you or your spouse covered you since 65 and ended within the last eight months, SSA says you can enroll in Part B without a penalty under this special enrollment period.
    2. Apply online or send the required formsApply online when ending employer coverage. For fax or mail, complete CMS-40B and, for the special enrollment period, CMS-L564; send completed forms to your Social Security office.
    Social Security Administration
  • How-to

    Apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help

    Health care
    1. Gather financial informationGather bank statements, tax returns, IRA or 401(k) balances, and statements for pensions, veterans benefits, annuities and Railroad Retirement Board benefits for you and your spouse.
    2. Apply online or arrange an appointmentApply through SSA’s online application, which asks about income and resources. For an appointment, call 800-772-1213 and ask to apply for Part D Extra Help.
    Social Security Administration
  • How-to

    Compare and change a Medicare health or drug plan

    Health care
    1. Check enrollment eligibility and timingReview Medicare’s eligibility and enrollment-period rules. Open enrollment runs October 15–December 7, with January 1 coverage when the plan receives your request by December 7.
    2. Compare plans against your needsCompare local plans with all regularly used prescriptions entered. Check benefits, doctor and pharmacy networks, premiums, deductibles and estimated drug costs. Talk to other insurance or benefits administrators before changing that coverage.
    3. Enroll by an approved methodChoose Enroll in Medicare’s plan comparison tool, contact the plan, or call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227). A mailed enrollment form must reach the plan before the enrollment period ends.
    Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services