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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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.

A retiree selecting a health insurance plan represented by a button with a medical cross surrounded by other healthcare icons.
Health Insurance for Early Retirees

School of Social Security & Medicare

Health insurance is one common barrier to early retirement. Fortunately, you have options to bridge the gap until Medicare begins.