Arsenio Sallie, Medicare Insurance Agent
About Me
Hey there, my name is Arsenio, and I am your local Medicare advisor and agent. I specialize in Medicare and am devoted to helping you find the best plan that matches your specific needs and financial situation. I will take care of the daunting task of comparing plans from well-known national and local companies for you. Even better, my services are completely free! Contact me today to explore your Medicare options, and be sure to mention that you found me on Medicare Agents Hub!
Q&A with Arsenio Sallie
My income fluctuates significantly year to year from investment distributions. How can I avoid IRMAA surcharges when I have an unusually high-income year?
Answer: Avoiding IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) surcharges can be challenging, especially with fluctuating income. Here are some strategies you might consider:
1. **Income Management:** Plan your investment distributions carefully. If possible, spread out distributions over multiple years to avoid spiking your income in any single year.
2. **Tax-Advantaged Accounts:** Maximize contributions to tax-advantaged accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s, which can reduce your taxable income.
3. **Roth Conversions:** Consider converting traditional IRA funds to a Roth IRA in years when your income is lower, which can help manage taxable income in future years.
4. **Charitable Contributions:** Make charitable contributions, which can be deducted from your taxable income if you itemize deductions.
5. **Harvesting Losses:** Use tax-loss harvesting to offset gains with losses, potentially reducing your taxable income.
6. **Filing an Appeal:** If your income has decreased due to a life-changing event (like retirement, divorce, or loss of income-producing property), you can file an appeal with the Social Security Administration using form SSA-44 to request a reduction in your IRMAA.
7. **Consult a Professional:** Consider working with a financial advisor or tax professional who can help you strategize and manage your income effectively.
Let me know if you have any more questions!
I am a member of a federally recognized tribe here in Arizona. I receive all my medical needs through the Indian Health Service at no cost. Do I still have to have Medicare?
Answer: If you receive healthcare through the Indian Health Service (IHS), you are not required to enroll in Medicare. However, there are several reasons why enrolling in Medicare might still be beneficial:
1. **Expanded Coverage:** Medicare can provide access to a broader range of healthcare providers and services that might not be available through IHS alone.
2. **Coordination of Benefits:** If you have Medicare, it can be used in conjunction with IHS services. Medicare can cover services outside of what IHS provides, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs for certain treatments.
3. **Future Needs:** Enrolling in Medicare when you first become eligible can prevent late enrollment penalties if you decide to use Medicare services in the future.
4. **Access to Specialists:** Medicare can provide access to specialists and facilities that may not be available through IHS.
5. **Prescription Drug Coverage:** Medicare Part D offers prescription drug coverage, which might be beneficial if you require medications not covered by IHS.
It's important to weigh your healthcare needs and consider how Medicare might complement the services you receive through IHS. Consulting with a benefits coordinator at your tribal health facility or a Medicare advisor can help you make an informed decision based on your special situation!