Search
Search the entire knowledge base
One search across every lesson, glossary term, FAQ, and official resource on MedicareAndTFL.com.
Lessons1
Glossarys3
- IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount)An income-based surcharge added to your Medicare Part B and Part D premiums when your modified adjusted gross income exceeds CMS thresholds.
- Social Security (and Medicare Enrollment)The Social Security Administration handles Medicare enrollment, premium collection, and IRMAA determinations — even though Medicare itself is run by CMS.
- Part B PremiumThe monthly premium for Medicare Part B — the single most important ongoing Medicare cost for TFL beneficiaries, since TFL requires Part B to remain active.
FAQs13
- What is IRMAA and will I owe it?IRMAA is the income-based surcharge on Medicare Part B (and Part D). It kicks in above roughly $106,000 single / $212,000 joint MAGI, using your tax return from 2 years ago.
- I just retired and my income dropped. Can I lower my IRMAA?Yes. File SSA Form SSA-44 and provide proof of a 'life-changing event' (retirement, work stoppage, divorce, death of spouse, loss of pension, employer settlement).
- Part B Costs & IRMAA — FAQ categoryMedicare Part B isn't free, and higher-income retirees pay IRMAA on top of the standard premium. These FAQs explain what you'll actually pay — and how a Part B giveback can lower it.
- How much does Medicare Part B cost?Most people pay the standard Part B premium (roughly $185/month in 2026). Higher-income retirees pay IRMAA on top. Lower-income retirees may qualify for help paying it.
- How do I lower my Part B premium?Two main paths: enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan with a Part B giveback, or — if your income has dropped — appeal an IRMAA surcharge with SSA Form SSA-44.
- Why is my Part B premium so high?Probably IRMAA — an income-based surcharge SSA applies based on your tax return from two years ago. It can be appealed if your income has dropped.
- Can I get a Part B giveback and keep TRICARE For Life?Yes. Enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan with a Part B giveback lowers your premium, and TFL stays intact as a wraparound for in-network MA care.
- How do I pay the Part B premium?If you draw Social Security or DFAS retired pay, the premium is automatically deducted. If not, Medicare bills you quarterly via Medicare Easy Pay or direct billing.
- Can my state help pay my Part B premium?If your income is low enough, yes. Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) pay the Part B premium for qualifying beneficiaries. Apply through your state Medicaid office.
- What is Extra Help and do I need it on TFL?Extra Help (LIS) lowers Part D drug costs for low-income beneficiaries. TFL beneficiaries usually don't need it because TRICARE Pharmacy is already very low cost — unless you also enroll in a Part D plan.
- Are my Medicare premiums tax-deductible?Generally yes, as a medical expense if you itemize and your total medical costs exceed 7.5% of AGI. Self-employed retirees may deduct premiums above the line. Talk to a tax professional.
- Why did one extra dollar of income raise my Part B premium hundreds of dollars?IRMAA uses cliff thresholds, not gradual tiers. Crossing a bracket by even $1 jumps you to the next premium amount for the entire year.
- Does TFL pay my Part B premium?No. TFL doesn't pay any Medicare premiums. The Part B premium is your responsibility. A Medicare Advantage Part B giveback can refund part of it while TFL remains intact.