Tax Playbook · Big life moves
IRMAA: keep Medicare premiums down
When you turn 65, Medicare checks your income from two years ago. For 2026, if that income is over $109,000 (single) or $218,000 (married), your monthly premium jumps. Going just $1 over the line can cost an extra $1,148 per year per person. But if you retired or had another big life change, you can file a form (SSA-44) to appeal.
Good for: People 63+ watching income before Medicare starts.
Learn the basics
Recent articles & guides
- Clark: The Medicare IRMAA cliff (2026)
- Medicare Advocates: 2026 IRMAA brackets & income limits
- Motley Fool: What is IRMAA? How 2026's Medicare surcharges are calculated
- United Medicare Advisors: How to appeal IRMAA in 2026
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Educational summary, not tax advice. Limits and rules change — confirm current law with your tax adviser.