School of Social Security & Medicare

The School of Social Security & Medicare, presented by Meld University, conducts classes and publishes articles to help you stay up to date on topics related to government supported retirement benefits.

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.

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 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.