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. Pat retired at the end of 2025. 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 woman contemplating when to claim Social Security benefits.
When Should You Claim Social Security Benefits?

School of Social Security & Medicare

Your Social Security claiming strategy is one of the most important parts of your retirement plan as it impacts lifetime income.

A portion of an American Flag and a letter from the Social Security Administration with the words “Important Information” written on it.
Social Security Fairness Act Increases Benefits for Some Public Employees

School of Social Security & Medicare

The Social Security Fairness Act eliminated some provisions that reduced benefits for people who worked in the public sector.

A magnifying glass and health care symbols
What Is IRMAA?

School of Social Security & Medicare

High earners need to plan for additional monthly healthcare costs in retirement because of Medicare Part B and Part D IRMAA.

A clipboard with a document detailing the parts of Medicare
Medicare Premiums and Coinsurance in 2025

School of Social Security & Medicare

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently announced the costs for Medicare premiums and coinsurance in 2025.

A scale with a money bag on one side and icons of a retired couple on the other
2025 Social Security COLA Announced

School of Social Security & Medicare

The Social Security Administration recently announced the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment, better known as the annual COLA.

A woman calculating Social Security benefits.
How Are Social Security Benefits Calculated?

School of Social Security & Medicare

Calculating Social Security benefits is complex, but understanding the process is key to forecasting retirement income.

A wooden sign with the words “ready for tomorrow” printed on it.
How Medicare Impacts HSA Contributions

School of Social Security & Medicare

Health Savings Accounts can be vital during retirement, but there are important contribution limitations for those covered by Medicare.

A person calculating their share of a medical bill
Medicare or Private Insurance: Who Pays First?

School of Social Security & Medicare

Knowing who pays first – Medicare or your insurance company – can help you understand your medical bills and what you owe.

A man pleased to receive Social Security Survivor Benefits
Are You Entitled to Social Security Survivor Benefits? A Case Study

School of Social Security & Medicare

A client was told he didn’t qualify for Social Security Survivor Benefits. A second opinion from Meld helped him get what he was owed.