Medicare Premiums to Increase Dramatically in 2022
Medicare premiums are rising sharply next year, cutting into the large Social Security cost-of-living increase. The basic monthly premium will jump 15.5 percent, or $21.60, from $148.50 to $170.10 a month.
What It Means to Need ‘Nursing Home Level of Care’ for Medicaid Eligibility
When applying for Medicaid’s long-term care coverage, in addition to the strict income and asset limits, you must demonstrate that you need a level care typically provided in a nursing home.
Closing of Social Security Field Offices Disrupted SSI Benefits for Thousands, Lawsuit Charges
When the SSA closed its offices at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it failed to provide practical ways for the elderly and people with disabilities to demonstrate their eligibility or challenge its decisions, according to a class-action lawsuit.
Elder Law News, November 2021
This month, we discuss Medicaid planning using Half-a-Loaf Strategies and Covid Vaccination Information added to Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare site. Our blog posts provide valuable insights in a time when more people than ever need help navigating…
In 2022, Social Security Beneficiaries Will See the Biggest Increase in 39 Years
Rising inflation due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic means that in 2022, Social Security benefits will rise 5.9 percent, the sharpest upsurge since 1983.
Better Than No Loaf: Medicaid Planning Using “Half a Loaf” Strategies
While it is preferable to conduct long-term care planning well in advance of needing care, if you haven’t planned ahead, there are some strategies available to avoid spending all your assets.
COVID Vaccination Information Added to Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare Site
Individuals who are researching nursing homes can now see staff and resident vaccination rates along with other quality and safety measure information at Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare website. The official Medicare website includes a nursing home rating system. Nursing Home Compare…
Social Security Shortfalls Are Predicted to Begin a Year Earlier Due to the Pandemic
The Social Security trustees are projecting that the Social Security trust fund will be depleted in 2033 — one year earlier than the previous estimates. Once the fund is depleted, Social Security benefits will be reduced unless Congress takes action.
It’s Medicare Open Enrollment Time: Is Your Plan Still Working for You?
Every year Medicare gives beneficiaries a window of opportunity to shop around and determine if their current Medicare plan is still the best one for them. During Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period, which runs from October 15 to December 7, beneficiaries can freely enroll in or switch plans.
Armed with a New Report, White House Pushes Congress to Reduce Prescription Drug Costs
The Biden administration is calling on Congress to pass proposals to lower prescription drug prices, including allowing Medicare to negotiate with drug companies and capping out-of-pocket spending by Medicare beneficiaries.
