Search found 716 matches

by cashmoney
Thu Feb 29, 2024 4:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare: 64 Year Old Eyeing 2025 Medicare
Replies: 164
Views: 11500

Re: Medicare: 64 Year Old Eyeing 2025 Medicare

Yes in most if not all states leaving a retiree group health plan/employer plan triggers a GI.That rate thing depends on if you live in community-rated state for medigap then yes your premium is based on where you live not how old you are. They include Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Arkansas, Minnesota and Washington This is from a medigap carrier agent underwriting guideline ( Florida) Thank you, Cashmoney! What's a "GI"? I'm located in CA, where might I find the medigap carrier agent underwriting guideline? are they same as FL? If I understand you correctly, I can decide to go with the Advantage plan offered by my employer and a few years later if I decide I want to switch to a Medigap plan G, I do not ne...
by cashmoney
Wed Feb 28, 2024 11:11 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare: 64 Year Old Eyeing 2025 Medicare
Replies: 164
Views: 11500

Re: Medicare: 64 Year Old Eyeing 2025 Medicare

You sort of have a mulligan for the first 12 months trial period with Medicare Advantage if you have a suitable MA plan in your county of residence with that said the scuttlebut in the industry is that MA will be pulling back benefits more than ever and increasing cost share (copayments) and or premiums in 2025.This is due to higher than expected utilization, crackdown on MA plans up coding for higher reimbursement and the higher cost to MA carriers to cover caps on part D out of pocket starting in 2025.Probably no more generous part B refunds,coverage for dental implants , personal trainers etc in 2025.Humana stock is especially being creamed because of this right now. disclaimer licensed agent Cashmoney, Is it true that someone that been...
by cashmoney
Wed Feb 28, 2024 6:16 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare: 64 Year Old Eyeing 2025 Medicare
Replies: 164
Views: 11500

Re: Medicare: 64 Year Old Eyeing 2025 Medicare

Sound contradictory, you say you don't like to skimp on medical yet you want to know what you would save with an advantage plan. Yeah, I know what I posted was contradictory. I really want Traditional Medicare/Part D/Supplement. Just wondering out loud how much I'd really save by going with Medicare advantage. Sounds like it's about $300 to $400 per month. For $3500 to $5000 a year more cost to me, I'll start out and probably stick with Traditional Medicare etc. I guess the framing is different with IRMAA, in that the top IRMAA brackets for Part B and Part D will be about $500 per month. So no matter what I do, Medicare will cost me $175 per month basic premium plus $419 IRMAA or about $600 per month. Do high income Medicare Part C (Medica...
by cashmoney
Tue Feb 27, 2024 2:51 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: another 5500ez penalty tale - $210,000
Replies: 131
Views: 23721

Re: another 5500ez penalty tale - $210,000

Funny you should ask after getting multiple " where working on it letters" from the IRS and 3 separate love letters from the IRS last week saying i owed 150k plus about 15k in interest for each tax year 2013,2014 and 2015 i got 3 more letters yesterday from the IRS saying my penalty relief application submitted in August 2022 was accepted for 2013,2014 and 2015 and i owe nothing.Finally after almost two year! Glad to hear that, these penalties are ridiculous for small business owners I agree.My problem started because way back my CPA who did my taxes recommended the 401k ( keogh) as a way to save on taxes but he never mentioned anything about the annual 5500 forms.I know better now that this is out of the scope of most CPA s who ...
by cashmoney
Tue Feb 27, 2024 2:27 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: another 5500ez penalty tale - $210,000
Replies: 131
Views: 23721

Re: another 5500ez penalty tale - $210,000

Yeah, those numbers seem out-of-line, even for the IRS. The failure-to-file likely led to the IRS making up its own numbers, which happens all the time. There are also an untold number of entry errors every year which lead to unreasonable tax liabilities being assessed. Nope. Those fines are exactly as according to law. See the comment from Alan S above: https://www.bogleheads.org/forum/viewtopic.php?p=6700911#p6700911 I don't agree that the penalties assessed to the OP were "exactly as according to law". In 2019, the maximum penalty for late filing of Form 5500-EZ was increased from $15K to $150K for forms required to be filed after 12/31/2019. The 2018 form had a filing due date prior to 12/31/2019, so the maximum penalty for 2...
by cashmoney
Tue Feb 27, 2024 2:09 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare: Medicare Advantage to Medicare Original
Replies: 9
Views: 1437

Re: Medicare: Medicare Advantage to Medicare Original

Currently with Kaiser Permanente through Obamacare. Because of long time medical history with Kaiser and a current medical condition that requires surgery pretty soon, I need to stay with Kaiser until recuperation. This means staying with Obamacare Kaiser until May, then switch over to Kaiser's Senior Advantage until Medicare open enrollment in October. I don't understand the reasoning here. Why would just going to original Medicare and a supplement in May be a problem? Check with USAA. I have a friend who switch from her employer provided supplement to one of their medigap plans without any underwriting verification. Yes, I recently discovered this too. I think it's because that's a group plan. Though I have to pay the full premiums, I am...
by cashmoney
Mon Feb 26, 2024 11:53 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare: Medicare Advantage to Medicare Original
Replies: 9
Views: 1437

Re: Medicare: Medicare Advantage to Medicare Original

I wouldn't wait until October's open enrollment. That is primarily for changing your Medicare Advantage plan and Drug plan for the following year. (Your state may also have a variation of rules, such as California lets you change supplemental plans in your birth month, but not if you are on a Medicare Advantage plan. But since your birthday is in May, you can sign up for Medicare in the three months BEFORE May and the three months AFTER. So go ahead and have your surgery as soon as possible, recuperate, then choose any plan you want until May + 3 months (August). I suggest you confirm this with Medicare and your state's SHIP office, in case things have changed and I'm out of date. :beer The Annual Enrollment Period is equally for both swit...
by cashmoney
Mon Feb 26, 2024 11:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medical condition: Guaranteed Issue term Life insurance
Replies: 12
Views: 1056

Re: Medical condition: Gauranteed Issue term Life insurance

It really sucks. It's a first-world problem, I know. But for those with pre-existing condition, it limits employment to bigger/known entities and precludes smaller employers from consideration. Indeed. The Healthcare plans are also usually much better and cheaper in large employers. I guess my intent is to see if there are any known memberships or affiliations that provide smaller G.I. plans to subscribers. If I could stack a few G.I. products, it could benefit my family and change decisions w.r.t. employment. There is a myriad of GI issue life products out there but they are going to be mostly final expense whole life small face amounts policies ( usually less than 25k), very expensive and usually a two year waiting period to pay a death ...
by cashmoney
Mon Feb 26, 2024 11:25 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare: Medicare Advantage to Medicare Original
Replies: 9
Views: 1437

Re: Medicare: Medicare Advantage to Medicare Original

I turn 65 in May and will be eligible to enroll in Medicare. Currently with Kaiser Permanente through Obamacare. Because of long time medical history with Kaiser and a current medical condition that requires surgery pretty soon, I need to stay with Kaiser until recuperation. This means staying with Obamacare Kaiser until May, then switch over to Kaiser's Senior Advantage until Medicare open enrollment in October. . Come October when open enrollment begins, can I change from Kaiser Senior Advantage to Medicare Original with Medigap Plan G? Will it be difficult and will I have to go through underwriting procedures? Or am I stuck in Medicare Advantage? Thanks. You have 12 month trial period to go from MA to med supp anytime in the first twelv...
by cashmoney
Fri Feb 23, 2024 3:14 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Annuity Headache
Replies: 4
Views: 936

Re: Annuity Headache

A friend went to the Teacher’s Credit Union to invest $50,0000 for a one year CD — the loan agent said she should invest in a five year annuity and lock todays rate of 5%. I thought that made sense (she assured me that she would not need the money over the 5 years). I have had bad experiences with annuities and fees — I asked the agent “does your annuity product contain any fees that would reduce my eventual payout”. His answer was no — no fees. My friend sent me a 30 page small font LPL Financial Account Agreement that does mention fees — but honestly I would need a lawyer to sort it out. Is there a simple question that I can pose to the agent to determine if there are really no fees? Thanks — appreciate any help If it is a MYGA she is go...
by cashmoney
Thu Feb 22, 2024 8:55 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: go on Medicare, cancel ACA but keep dental?
Replies: 11
Views: 1734

Re: go on Medicare, cancel ACA but keep dental?

I have a very generous corporate-retirement linked Medicare Advantage plan, with a substantial premium, not "free". But the dental add-ons are separate products and I don't find them to be worth the additional premiums. You should carefully check the coverage levels, copayment percentage, limits per procedure-type, and total annual limits when evaluating a dental plan. Otherwise you're buying a pig in a poke. I mean, what good is a $200 payment on a $1200 crown? With annoying pre-approval required, besides. I have at least eight crowns, your mileage may differ. In general dental insurance is usually a waste but if your dentist is in network the plan usually pays 50% for crowns ( some MA plans will pay 100%) but more importantly t...
by cashmoney
Wed Feb 21, 2024 9:30 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Who keeps original will?
Replies: 68
Views: 6541

Re: Who keeps original will?

fsrph wrote: Wed Feb 21, 2024 8:38 pm
humblecoder wrote: Wed Feb 21, 2024 12:26 pm In our state, the original can be put "on file" with the "Register of Wills" office. That's what we did. We were given a receipt that our executors can use to obtain the original when needed.
What happens if you lose the receipt?

Francis

Put the receipt in safety deposit box and give key to box to your lawyer but make sure executor knows lawyer has the key.
by cashmoney
Tue Feb 20, 2024 2:05 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: What does Schwab do better than Fidelity?
Replies: 305
Views: 49348

Re: What does Schwab do better than Fidelity?

A few ways Schwab is better: - Schwab is a real bank. Fidelity offers a pseudo fintech solution (CMA) for banking. - Fidelity's unusually long account numbers can cause problems for paying bills online with some companies. - Fidelity is notorious for closing accounts without any warning and giving very vague, opaque directions to regain access: https://www.reddit.com/r/fidelityinvestments/search/?q=account%20closed&restrict_sr=1&sr_nsfw= - Fidelity does charge 1% fee on ATM international withdrawals despite many claiming to the contrary. I asked a Fidelity employee directly and was told this, and Fidelity employee's themselves have reported the 1% charge for international ATM withdrawals is true: https://www.reddit.com/r/fidelityin...
by cashmoney
Sat Feb 17, 2024 12:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Sound bar
Replies: 43
Views: 4023

Re: Sound bar

Chardo wrote: Sat Feb 17, 2024 10:50 am I'm getting a new TV for a wall unit in a huge great room. I would like to add a sound bar. If I include a wireless subwoofer, the only acceptable place I could put it would be the opposite side of the room, along the kitchen cabinets, 32 feet away from the TV. Would this work? If I skip the subwoofer, is the sound bar a significant improvement over the TV speakers?

Yes almost always much better than TV speakers especially for listening to dialogue and a system with a dedicated subwoofer ,which you can place anywhere,is always going to sound better and more immersive than an all in one soundbar.If your new TV has eArc you may want to consider a Dolby Atmos capable soundbar especially if you watch a lot of movies.
by cashmoney
Fri Feb 16, 2024 1:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Netflix subscription
Replies: 87
Views: 6111

Re: Netflix subscription

Netflix has a TV drama series that I am interested to check out. It looks like I can subscribe monthly for $6.99 (with ads). For $15.49 I can avoid the ads and for $22.99 I get better sound, greater simultaneous device access and other features. As long as the ads aren't ridiculously excessive the cheapest subscription should work for us. It will also be a chance to check out what other programs, films, etc. Netflix offers that may interest us. The Netflix site says "no commitments, cancel anytime" and that we can just watch on our computer or laptop. All of that sounds good to me: no setup hassles, no contract to deal with. Is it as straightforward as this? Anything I am missing? I realize that Netflix is probably passé at this ...
by cashmoney
Thu Feb 15, 2024 1:03 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Notes on 1040 -es payment for " weather related tax relief"
Replies: 2
Views: 187

Re: Notes on 1040 -es payment for " weather related tax relief"

increment wrote: Thu Feb 15, 2024 12:10 pm I wouldn't bother because I doubt that any human will ever read those kinds of notes.

I just heard back from accountant and she recommended to put " CLAY COUNTY,FL- HURRICANE IDALIA" May not help but it can't hurt i guess.Thx
by cashmoney
Thu Feb 15, 2024 12:07 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Notes on 1040 -es payment for " weather related tax relief"
Replies: 2
Views: 187

Notes on 1040 -es payment for " weather related tax relief"

Because of storms in Fl the IRS gave us until 2/15 to pay 9/15/23 and 1/16/24 est taxes.I am bringing my checks to post office today but was wondering if it is a good idea to make note on 1040-es form or checks about the tax relief i am eligible for or is all worked out when i do my 2023 taxes?

Also should i put checks and 1040-es form for 9/15/23 and 1/16/24 in two separate envelopes?
by cashmoney
Tue Feb 13, 2024 8:32 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare - variances by state?
Replies: 6
Views: 887

Re: Medicare - variances by state?

I am still a couple years away from Medicare, so I only am familiar with the most basic facets of the program. My question is this - from what I know, there is a federal component and state component? Are some states more advantageous to live in for Medicare purposes? ( I realize it's only one factor for a living location, so peace...lol) What might be any advantages or disadvantages for Medicare recipients in some states? this could be important for example, if one lives in an area where the state line is only a mile away. Muchas Gracias. Original Medicare A and B is a federal program and is the same in all states. Medicare Supplements are regulated by the state and are standardized coverage in all but a few states however the premiums ca...
by cashmoney
Fri Feb 09, 2024 5:48 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Etrade 1099 issues again. [Incorrect, e.g. missing T-bill interest]
Replies: 58
Views: 5571

Re: Etrade 1099 issues again. [Incorrect, e.g. missing T-bill interest]

Today I see that a consolidated 1099 form is available at Etrade. I see that only interests and dividends from the 4th quarter of 2023 were reported, but then I remember that reading from this forum that due to the switch over, I will receive two 1099 forms. Last year I had a problem as documented here. https://www.bogleheads.org/forum/viewtopic.php?t=396561 The same problem is happening again this year. For example, I have a T-bill purchased in the 3rd quarter of 2023 that was matured in the 4th quarter of 2023, and the interest was not included. I called Etrade and the person said she will submit a report. Does anyone have the same problem? I understand that one may have issues every now and then. The same issue two years in a row? Maybe...
by cashmoney
Tue Feb 06, 2024 2:01 pm
Forum: US Chapters
Topic: Are any BH's not wealthy?
Replies: 165
Views: 25670

Re: Are any BH's not wealthy?

funyun wrote: Tue Feb 06, 2024 10:30 am Plenty of folks here are not wealthy - but I think the wealthy folks end up getting a bigger platform (there is no shortage of humblebragging here). And I think folks who maybe are not as well off tend to lurk more and post less, partly because when they do post, they are generally told in no uncertain terms that they're doing something wrong. Not a ton of compassion here, but lots of solid advice. This is not the place you come for good news about any of your habits, ha!

I thought it was just me that thought that BH are all either doctors,lawyers or engineers and their children all go to either MIT,Harvard or Stanford studying to be the same however they all drive either Camry's ,Outbacks and Corolla's
by cashmoney
Wed Jan 31, 2024 6:01 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Dental Provider refuses to bill all charges to Insurance
Replies: 43
Views: 6067

Re: Dental Provider refuses to bill all charges to Insurance

A dental insurance is different from a regular medical insurance. most don't understand this - my dentist will have a price - he'll get what he can from insurance but I pay the difference - I think most are this way. So the question here is can the dentist charge his full fee for those things that are not covered by dental plan (including any services that are covered services but no longer are because the annual benefit amount has been exhausted) or do they still have charge a discounted fee because patient has dental insurance.Looks like it depends if contract between the insurance company and the provider has a " no-covered services provision which may also be subject to state laws "Know What Your Contract Says If you signed a...
by cashmoney
Tue Jan 30, 2024 8:18 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?
Replies: 11037
Views: 2066942

Re: What Movie Have You Recently Watched?

michaelscott wrote: Sun Jan 28, 2024 4:49 pm Killers of the. Wow! What an impactful film. A stunning portrayal of yet another betrayal of Indigenous people. Highly recommend but note the runtime! It’s a half day endeavor!

Good acting and interesting story but IMO too slow ,monotonous and way too long.i paid 20.00 to rent it so i was especially disappointed.
by cashmoney
Tue Jan 30, 2024 6:18 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

My hypothesis was that a big agency like Boomer Benefits has the customer service staff to deal with any issues to service the policy if needed, whereas independent agent might not want to or have the capacity to deal with that sort of thing after the sale is closed. Ideally you want the person that answers the phone to be the active agent that actually enrolled you and who will most likely remember who you are when you call so you can get to the point of the question much quicker- not a random agent who is handling customer service for the agency. service for an " orphaned account" at the agency. Unfortunately a lot of UHC customer service is now handled in the Philippine's etc. so even a very basic question or request can turn ...
by cashmoney
Tue Jan 30, 2024 5:25 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Dental Provider refuses to bill all charges to Insurance
Replies: 43
Views: 6067

Re: Dental Provider refuses to bill all charges to Insurance

Recently my son had wisdom teeth extraction at local dental facility. Before procedure they estimated the overall procedure would cost about $4000 and my out of pocket would be approximately $1000. They insisted that we pay $1000 upfront and they will adjust after the claim is processed. Though this practice seems a little shady, since this facility is part of my dental insurance provider(Cigna) network we just paid at that time. Now my insurance has processed the claim and as per the EOB patient responsibility is only $550. When I called the dentist billing department they said they are still waiting for the claim to be processed and will adjust based on the claim, however they mentioned about a $400 charge that cannot be sent to insuranc...
by cashmoney
Thu Jan 25, 2024 7:13 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

You're probably right. Also, I believe when a service provider doesn't agree to Medicare assignment, they agree to accept 95% of the Medicare approved amount as full payment, thus the maximum excess to the patient is 9.25%, not 15% (1.15 x 0.95 = 1.0925). But 15% excess payments is a great fear mongering marketing ploy used by insurance companies since only about 1% of providers charge excess (I don't have a source citation, just remember reading that not to long ago). Also, in 8 states it is illegal to charge excess billing. As of 2013 providers who don't accept assignment are reimbursed 78% of the medicare approved rate instead of 80% and plan G or F do not cover this 2%. https://www.cms.gov/outreach-and-education/outreach/ffsprovpartpro...
by cashmoney
Thu Jan 25, 2024 6:23 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

Likely it is a crap ton of paperwork and not worth the employee dollars to chase pennies. It seems to me this is the allure of many docs to opt into Medicare; bill Medicare and you’re done and know you will get paid. You're probably right. Also, I believe when a service provider doesn't agree to Medicare assignment, they agree to accept 95% of the Medicare approved amount as full payment, thus the maximum excess to the patient is 9.25%, not 15% (1.15 x 0.95 = 1.0925). But 15% excess payments is a great fear mongering marketing ploy used by insurance companies since only about 1% of providers charge excess (I don't have a source citation, just remember reading that not to long ago). Also, in 8 states it is illegal to charge excess billing. ...
by cashmoney
Wed Jan 24, 2024 6:34 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

Likely it is a crap ton of paperwork and not worth the employee dollars to chase pennies. It seems to me this is the allure of many docs to opt into Medicare; bill Medicare and you’re done and know you will get paid. You're probably right. Also, I believe when a service provider doesn't agree to Medicare assignment, they agree to accept 95% of the Medicare approved amount as full payment, thus the maximum excess to the patient is 9.25%, not 15% (1.15 x 0.95 = 1.0925). But 15% excess payments is a great fear mongering marketing ploy used by insurance companies since only about 1% of providers charge excess (I don't have a source citation, just remember reading that not to long ago). Also, in 8 states it is illegal to charge excess billing. ...
by cashmoney
Tue Jan 23, 2024 10:59 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Does Medicare pay for Hospice care?
Replies: 23
Views: 2758

Re: Does Medicare pay for Hospice care?

Man, this is so confusing :( Even the answers hear seem to be contradictory, from Medicare care will pay for hospice to care, to it depends on which Medicare care she has, to they will not pay the room/board portion. I do understand that hospice is a service, but in home hospice looks to be pretty limited in how many hours per week they would help. I think the bottom line is Medicare will pay for at least some portion (possibly 100%???) of in-facility hospice care and I just need to get the facilities to look at what Medicare she has and give me a written estimate? Is that really what it boils down to? No once it is determined a person qualifies for Hospice services it is 100% covered by any flavor of medicare (other than small copayment f...
by cashmoney
Mon Jan 22, 2024 9:33 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Does Medicare pay for Hospice care?
Replies: 23
Views: 2758

Re: Does Medicare pay for Hospice care?

Hi, I am hoping for some background info on what Medicare will pay for hospice care. My grandmother is 97, was just hospitalized with covid and is rehab now. Her rehab ends in about a week. She owns her home, gets the social security minimum payment, no other income around $15K in other assets. I believe her doctor will recommend hospice care. She can't stand, sit up on her own, can barely eat on her own, etc. Her mental state has also taken a quick turn for the worst. Family members plan to take care of her when she returns home, I don't know if they fully understand the care needed, so I am trying to determine some plan Bs. We have talked to two different facilities and have gotten slightly different answers, so I thought I would ask thi...
by cashmoney
Mon Jan 22, 2024 7:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

If you've decided that you are going to get a G with UHC/AARP, then most of what you've quoted is just noise. If you call a big broker like Boomer Benefits and they don't want to sell you UHC/AARP, then don't use them and sign up at https://www.aarpmedicareplans.com/ But I dont' see how you'd have anything to lose by going through Boomer Benefits - its just more profit for UnitedHealthcare if you don't. If she knows she is going with UHC then she may want to search for agents here https://www.myuhcagent.com .You can get a brief bio on agents (Look for Platinum Premier Producers) in your area including the number of years agent has been selling UHC products which is the biggest indicator that agent will still be active for years to come.Som...
by cashmoney
Mon Jan 22, 2024 1:48 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Part D payment SS deduction
Replies: 35
Views: 2237

Re: Part D payment SS deduction

An elderly relative signed up for a new part D drug plan and requested that premium payments be deducted from her Social Security payments. She has received a letter from Social Security to the effect that the premium has been deducted from the SS check she will receive for January. However, the part D insurer's web site is now saying her initial premium is overdue. Neither Social Security nor the insurance company will talk to me and she's not up to this sort of call. She'd rather not pay the premium herself given the SS letter and the fear the insurance company will not return the money when SS pays the premium. I had heard that there's a grace period during which an insurer can't cancel a policy but the only thing I can find on google s...
by cashmoney
Mon Jan 22, 2024 11:44 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

Hi Bogleheads. Thanks for all of the great extra information that you have offered since my last post. I didn't think about using a cash-back portal to purchase AARP, and I'm beyond relieved that Part D will be easy since I don't take medications. The best medicine for me has always been to eat right and exercise. I've been pondering all of your feedback about using a broker. It's not like I'm opposed to it, but I sort of feel that they're going to benefit (i.e., forever commissions) more than I will considering I've already determined that I'm going to get a Plan G with AARP/United Healthcare. However, several of you mentioned that brokers can deal with any issues later versus me calling United Healthcare. Do problems really arise that of...
by cashmoney
Sun Jan 21, 2024 7:33 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

Hi Bogleheads. Thanks for all of the great extra information that you have offered since my last post. I didn't think about using a cash-back portal to purchase AARP, and I'm beyond relieved that Part D will be easy since I don't take medications. The best medicine for me has always been to eat right and exercise. I've been pondering all of your feedback about using a broker. It's not like I'm opposed to it, but I sort of feel that they're going to benefit (i.e., forever commissions) more than I will considering I've already determined that I'm going to get a Plan G with AARP/United Healthcare. However, several of you mentioned that brokers can deal with any issues later versus me calling United Healthcare. Do problems really arise that of...
by cashmoney
Fri Jan 19, 2024 6:10 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: No-state-income-tax states are not good for retirees.
Replies: 413
Views: 39199

Re: No-state-income-tax states are not good for retirees.

Jamech wrote: Wed Jan 17, 2024 4:54 pm Read this subject line in another thread. I have always assumed the opposite.

We currently live in a no income tax state and are considering relocation to another no income tax state in retirement. The weather is the main consideration for us.

Does anyone have any observations about various states for retirees from a financial standpoint (income, property or sales taxes)?

Homeowners insurance costs (seems I have read that Florida is very expensive or unobtainable) ?

Also, initial cost for similar properties seems to be less in Texas than Florida (the 2 states we are considering for better weather).


I wonder if there any nice cities to live in for retirees with no state income tax that border a no sales tax state?
by cashmoney
Fri Jan 19, 2024 3:12 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Purchasing MYGAs (multi year guaranteed annuities) - mega thread
Replies: 2224
Views: 287039

Re: Purchasing MYGAs (multi year guaranteed annuities) - mega thread

I have a MYGA maturing at American Equity (A- rating). They just sent me a letter offering a 3 yr 5.35% rate. That seems decent although I haven't been following the rates lately. I'm leaning towards just transferring it to Fidelity. 5.35% is a competitive rate on a 3 year MYGA from a company rated A- or higher. I didn’t see any rates on Blueprint Income that beat your 5.35% rate. However, Annuity Advantage shows rates of 5.70% from Oceanview, and 5.55% from Aspida, both of which are rated A-, for 3 year contracts. Those Annuity Advantage rates are going down in a few days - on the 19th for Aspida and the 22nd for Oceanview. The rate reduction has already been implemented on the Blueprint site. I don’t know why Blueprint Income site cuts r...
by cashmoney
Sat Jan 13, 2024 7:35 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

Thank you so much to everyone who has replied so far. I'm very grateful for your feedback and words of wisdom. I haven't called a broker yet to verify, but it seems that AARP/United Healthcare and Florida Blue have the majority of the Medigap policies in Florida. While there appears to be 29-30 policies in my zip code with numerous companies, I looked on the Medicare.gov site to get an initial idea of pricing with just those two for now. It shows a Plan G with UHC is $190 and Plan N is $162 ($28 a month difference). I'm not an AARP member so I think I'd have to subscribe to get that plan. It also shows a Plan G with Florida Blue is $214, and Plan N is $177 ($37 a month difference). I assume these prices are accurate. I'm leaning more towar...
by cashmoney
Sat Jan 13, 2024 6:05 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

If plan G is $190-214/mo., then once the part B deductible cost is added in, that already is a total out of pocket cost similar to the G-HD deductible (which functions as an overall out of pocket maximum). What are G-HD premiums in your zip code? Add up 12 months of G-HD premium and add to the G-HD deductible --compare to-- Adding up 12 months of G premium and add in the part B deductible I suspect they are close enough to justify G-HD unless you expect to hit the G-HD deductible regularly. Hi G for most people is lowest cost but one thing to add to your equation is if you think you may stay with the same insurance company for the long term is you can only lock in age 65 age band once on med sup contract so be fairly confident that hi G is...
by cashmoney
Sat Jan 13, 2024 5:15 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history
Replies: 165
Views: 15908

Re: I'm having a hard time deciding if I should pick Medigap Plan G or Plan N because of my history

Thank you so much to everyone who has replied so far. I'm very grateful for your feedback and words of wisdom. I haven't called a broker yet to verify, but it seems that AARP/United Healthcare and Florida Blue have the majority of the Medigap policies in Florida. While there appears to be 29-30 policies in my zip code with numerous companies, I looked on the Medicare.gov site to get an initial idea of pricing with just those two for now. It shows a Plan G with UHC is $190 and Plan N is $162 ($28 a month difference). I'm not an AARP member so I think I'd have to subscribe to get that plan. It also shows a Plan G with Florida Blue is $214, and Plan N is $177 ($37 a month difference). I assume these prices are accurate. I'm leaning more towar...
by cashmoney
Sat Jan 13, 2024 4:04 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Medicare Initial Enrollment / Timing w-a little complexity
Replies: 5
Views: 453

Re: Medicare Initial Enrollment / Timing w-a little complexity

Thanks in advance for any help provided. I know enough here to be dangerous but don't want to get tripped up on the details. The timing issues and IRMAA impact, along with the spousal component, makes this a little more tricky than the standard Medicare application. Background : I am turning 65 and eligible for Medicare in April 2024. I will retire (announced to the organization and transition plan underway) on June 30, 2024. I have solid employee health coverage through my retirement date of June 30 but not beyond. Spouse turned 65 in November 2023 and is currently enrolled only in Medicare Part A. She will remain a participant in my employee health care plan through my retirement date. - Based on 2022 AGI, my income level places me squar...
by cashmoney
Thu Jan 11, 2024 6:25 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 2024 Deductible for Medigap Plans F-HD and G-HD
Replies: 36
Views: 3251

Re: 2024 Deductible for Medigap Plans F-HD and G-HD

Thank you ModifiedDuration. It is interesting that United American and Globe Life insurance companies has the lowest rates for HD Plan G and the highest rates for regular Plan G in Michigan.. Yeah, that tells you how much they really focus on the high-deductible plans. A little history.UA use to be sold only by their captive agents and they were known for pushing standard plan F that had the highest premiums in the land ( going back to early nineties' ) partly because they paid about twice as much commission to agent as other carriers and partly because they had liberal underwriting at the time.Somewhere around 2000 UA started a big push for their captive agents to sell the hi F plans in a strategy to " free up" money that could ...
by cashmoney
Thu Jan 11, 2024 5:29 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 2024 Deductible for Medigap Plans F-HD and G-HD
Replies: 36
Views: 3251

Re: 2024 Deductible for Medigap Plans F-HD and G-HD

Thank you ModifiedDuration. It is interesting that United American and Globe Life insurance companies has the lowest rates for HD Plan G and the highest rates for regular Plan G in Michigan.. Yeah, that tells you how much they really focus on the high-deductible plans. A little history.UA use to be sold only by their captive agents and they were known for pushing standard plan F that had the highest premiums in the land ( going back to early nineties' ) partly because they paid about twice as much commission to agent as other carriers and partly because they had liberal underwriting at the time.Somewhere around 2000 UA started a big push for their captive agents to sell the hi F plans in a strategy to " free up" money that could ...
by cashmoney
Mon Jan 08, 2024 8:36 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Timeline for Medicare B (re)enrollment
Replies: 7
Views: 1085

Re: Timeline for Medicare B (re)enrollment

Was wondering if others dealing with Medicare enrollment changes are having such a long wait time, now 2 months +. Not a new enrollment; I've been on Medicare for a while. I've left employer's plan as of 12/31/23 so I need to re-enroll in Medicare B. Medicare B has to go through Social Security and so far no action. So, also no Medigap until that gets done. (No problem with Part D plan; I sent the forms, and they sent a bill.) Did the online application on Halloween: Medicare B re-enroll, with filled out forms from employer to show I had coverage all along. Got a confirming email. Waited until mid-December and then contacted SSA since I was soon to be uninsured. After the 1 hr+ wait, the worker told me they had the application, nothing see...
by cashmoney
Fri Jan 05, 2024 10:52 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: TIME = MONEY: strategies to **SAVE TIME** (even if it costs $)
Replies: 51
Views: 7501

Re: TIME = MONEY: strategies to **SAVE TIME** (even if it costs $)

snowday2022 wrote: Fri Jan 05, 2024 10:16 pm Ignore CC rewards, frequent flier miles, buy one get one free, sales, etc. Just decide what you want to buy, and if you can afford it, buy it.
My news years resolution is to not spend the extra time comparison shopping on amazon,walmart.com and costco for best price every time i buy something that cost over 30.00 dollars but then again i am frugal so i am sure this is another new years resolution that i won't keep..
by cashmoney
Thu Jan 04, 2024 1:45 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: OLED TV screen burn-in in 2024
Replies: 6
Views: 1266

Re: OLED TV screen burn-in in 2024

buckeye7983 wrote: Thu Jan 04, 2024 11:38 am If I buy an OLED TV this year, do I need to worry about burn-in, or has that problem been solved?

Thanks!

I think that is urban myth i have had an oled about 4 years and leave it on the cable news channels most of the day and have never seen burn in besides that they are getting cheaper and cheaper to replace so i wouldn't let that stop me from enjoying the best image available on tv's today.
by cashmoney
Tue Jan 02, 2024 7:09 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Budget wireless home audio
Replies: 21
Views: 2319

Re: Budget wireless home audio

Looking for wireless options to improve our home audio system for movies and music. Budget is < $1,000. I have owned several systems over the years but don't want to go to the rabbit hole of bigger, more expensive, wired systems. I value simplified, budget systems more. We already have too many wires, and I do not have enough bookshelf space for an amplifier. I also don't have room for rear speakers. With that said, here's a couple leading options I'm eyeing. Appreciate any recommendations! $319 - Edifier S350DB Bookshelf Speaker and Subwoofer 2.1 Speaker System https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077Y6PHKQ/?coliid=I3I7U32RI3DLBE&colid=2J41E5PZSNB25&ref_=list_c_wl_lv_ov_lig_dp_it&th=1 $549 - JBL Bar 9.1 https://www.amazon.com/JBL-Bar-9-...
by cashmoney
Mon Jan 01, 2024 11:30 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Long term care policy from 2004: good, bad, ugly?
Replies: 21
Views: 2210

Re: Long term care policy from 2004: good, bad, ugly?

"3. Is there anything else I should find out about this policy to fully evaluate it?" - are the policy premuims currently fixed for life? - do they cover in home care? If yes what are the daily limits? - what are the reasons for the 4 year limit? If they utilize less than the $500 per day does the yearly limit increase? Consider whether there is a restoration of benefits,premium waiver when on claims and whether it is eligible for Partnership Program if your state has that.find out if the agent that sold the policy is still active because if he is he is still being paid renewals to service policyholders and has a vested interested in keeping his clients happy. I believe all LTC policies are a Guaranteed Renewable contract meaning...
by cashmoney
Sat Dec 30, 2023 3:24 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Turning 65 and still working - Medicare Questions
Replies: 5
Views: 1256

Re: Turning 65 and still working - Medicare Questions

chalet wrote: Sat Dec 30, 2023 12:19 am
krafty81 wrote: Fri Dec 29, 2023 12:28 pm Saves me over 500 per month.

Don't overlook the absence of deductible and copays with medicare + TFL.
+1 employer plan you go in hospital very common to hit maximum out of pocket ,also more importantly for some people the complete flexibility of medicare fee for service health insurance vs managed care (like medicare advantage) employer health plan (usually)
by cashmoney
Thu Dec 28, 2023 5:39 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Turning 65 and still working - Medicare Questions
Replies: 5
Views: 1256

Re: Turning 65 and still working - Medicare Questions

Waiting on a call back from our company rep, but here is my situation and questions. I turn 65 next year. I am retired military currently on Tricare prime. If I sign up for Part B Medicare, I will be on Tricare for Life (TFL) but owe Medicare fees plus IRMAA to the tune of about 600 per month. I can refuse to sign up for Part B and just go with my company plan (individual) and pay only about 150 per month. It looks like a good plan. I understand I will not be on TFL but can jump on that after I retire from this job (my last). Questions: - Do I have to notify Medicare that I am still working and not taking Part B? - Should I take Part A? - Anything I am missing here? Thanks. If you are not collecting social security you will not be automati...
by cashmoney
Thu Dec 21, 2023 9:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Cancelling orders, subs: dark patterns, roach motels - worst?
Replies: 38
Views: 5141

Re: Cancelling orders, subs: dark patterns, roach motels - worst?

Read an article explaining dark patterns - where companies make it difficult to cancel orders, subscriptions, etc. Many big companies are guilty. Fewer are guilty of "roach motel" patterns, where you actually have to call and talk to someone to cancel. I have run into the roach motel patterns with newspaper subscriptions - local and national. Although it may be coincidental, I recently was able to cancel a small order from Amazon (a sale which was probably not a moneymaker for them). Otherwise, I have found it difficult or impossible with Amazon and other companies. Which companies have you found that are the worst for these tactics? Are there companies you will not do business with because of these practices? Companies that you ...
by cashmoney
Wed Dec 20, 2023 10:22 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Tax implications of CD or MM vs . Fidelity Gov MM
Replies: 9
Views: 1133

Re: Tax implications of CD or MM vs . Fidelity Gov MM

Beachey wrote: Wed Dec 20, 2023 8:51 am In addition to State Tax implications, many CDs pay interest only on maturity which can delay the tax due versus a money market which typically pays dividends monthly.

I would like to now which CDs pay on maturity? Didn't think that was a thing with CDs.