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 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.

A calculator sitting on an American flag.
How President Biden’s 2025 Budget Could Impact Social Security

School of Social Security & Medicare

The proposed 2025 federal budget provides additional funding to the SSA to improve access to benefits and customer service.

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].