Pat Burris, CFP®

Pat joined Meld Financial in 1997 serving as Vice President Corporate and Retirement Plan Services. In February 2021, she transitioned to a part-time consulting role serving as Meld’s resident Social Security and Medicare Specialist. She has over 40 years in the financial services industry and more than a decade helping clients navigate the maze of Social Security and Medicare. View Pat's LinkedIn Profile. Education: B.S. Accounting, Western New England University, Springfield, MA – 1978, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ – 2002, Securities Licenses: Series 7 and 63, Life and disability insurance license
A retired couple reviewing annual premium increases for their attained-age Medigap plans.
Is Your Attained-Age Medigap Plan Ruining Your Budget? A Case Study

School of Social Security & Medicare

Attained-age Medigap plans often have a lower initial cost than other options, but premium increases can derail your budget.

A 2026 calendar, a stethoscope, and a toy heart
Medicare Premiums and Coinsurance in 2026

School of Social Security & Medicare

The CMS recently announced Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance for 2026, along with Part B and D IRMAA amounts.

The Capitol Dome over a background of Social Security cards.
2026 Social Security COLA Announced

School of Social Security & Medicare

The Social Security Administration recently announced the 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment, which will take effect in January.

Retirees are reviewing their Medicare policy with a financial advisor.
Why You Should Review Your Medicare Policy Annually

School of Social Features

Medicare coverage and costs can change each year, so retirees should review their plan with an experienced financial advisor.

A person comparing Medigap plan costs with a calculator
Comparing Attained-Age, Issue-Age, and Community-Rated Medigap Plans

School of Social Security & Medicare

Medigap premiums are determined using attained-age, issue-age, or community-rated pricing systems to account for policyholder age.

A person looking at a chalkboard filled with complex mathematical calculations. This is meant to represent calculating provisional income or combined income.
How to Calculate Provisional Income (a.k.a. Combined Income)

School of Social Security & Medicare

Your provisional income determines if Social Security benefits are taxable, so it is important to know how to calculate this figure.

A couple reviewing Social Security claiming strategies on a laptop
Social Security Claiming Strategies for High Earners

School of Social Security & Medicare

These 5 Social Security claiming strategies can help high earners balance their income, assets, and estate planning needs.

A financial advisor explaining the parts of Medicare to a couple
Navigating Medicare: What Do the Different Parts Cover?

School of Social Security & Medicare

This guide explores the different parts of Medicare, what they cover, and how they work together to support your healthcare.

A reduction in social security benefits symbolized by a dollar sign in front of a down arrow.
4 Factors That Can Reduce Your Social Security Benefits

School of Social Features

These 4 factors can reduce your Social Security benefits. Preparing for them can help you maximize your retirement income.