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 senior man looking at medical bills.
Medicare Recipients Could See Lower Drug Costs in 2024

School of Social Security & Medicare

We have good news for Medicare recipients! The out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Part D catastrophic coverage have been eliminated. Learn how much you could save in our latest article.

social security card and 1040 form
When Is Social Security Income Taxable?

School of Social Security & Medicare

Many people don’t consider taxation of their Social Security benefits, but it is the reality for about half of recipients.

A power of attorney form being reviewed by a man in a suit.
Does a Power of Attorney Impact Social Security and Medicare?

School of Social Security & Medicare

A Power of Attorney handles your affairs if you are incapacitated, but important limitations apply to government benefits.

Medicare Premiums and Coinsurance Raised for 2024

School of Social Security & Medicare

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services recently announced higher Medicare premiums and coinsurance costs for 2024.

A retiree standing on a stack of coins representing the cost of living increase.
Social Security COLA Announced for 2024

School of Social Security & Medicare

The Social Security Administration recently announced benefit increases from the annual Cost-of-Living Adjustment [COLA].

A senior lady sitting on a park bench contemplating if she is eligible for social security survivor benefits.
Do you Qualify for Social Security Survivor Benefits?

School of Social Security & Medicare

If a close family member passes away, you could qualify for Social Security survivor benefits based on their past earnings.

A senior couple excited to learn about social security spousal benefits.
Do You Qualify for Social Security Spousal Benefits?

School of Social Security & Medicare

If you’ve ever been married, you could be eligible for Social Security spousal benefits. Learn whether you qualify for these benefits and how much income you could receive.

A retiree getting medical care
Medigap vs Medicare Advantage Plans

School of Social Security & Medicare

Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans help to cover the healthcare costs that Medicare Part A and Part B do not cover.

A retired couple riding a motorcycle while on vacation in a foreign country.
Medicare Coverage for Overseas Travel

School of Social Security & Medicare

If you don’t understand your Medicare coverage, a health emergency in a foreign country could leave you with a large bill.