Donald Friesen, Medicare Insurance Agent

About Me

Greetings! I'm Donald, a Medicare insurance agent dedicated to serving your local area. Medicare is my area of expertise, and I'm committed to helping you pinpoint the most suitable plan for your individual needs and budget. I'll handle the research and comparison of plans from top national and local companies, so you can relax. Plus, my assistance comes at absolutely no cost to you. Reach out to me today to discuss your Medicare insurance possibilities, and remember to mention you found me through Medicare Agents Hub!

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Q&A with Donald Friesen

I've heard about IRMAA affecting my Medicare premiums. How can I find out if it applies to me, and how does it work?

Answer: How IRMAA works

Based on income from two years ago

Your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) from your tax return two years prior (e.g., 2023 returns for 2025 Medicare) determines IRMAA

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Applies to Part B & Part D premiums

Affects both:

Part B (doctor services)

Part D (prescriptions)

Note: Part C (Advantage) includes Part B and D, so IRMAA applies too

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Sliding-scale surcharge

There are income brackets with surcharges added to the standard premiums:

Standard Part B premium for 2025 is $185/month

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If your 2023 MAGI exceeded:

$106K (single) or $212K (joint), IRMAA kicks in

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Surcharge ranges vary: e.g., Part B total premium can be from $259 up to $628.90/month, depending how high your income is .

Here's a simplified table for 2025 Part B IRMAA brackets:

2023 MAGI 2025 Part B Premium

≤ $106K / $212K joint $185

$106–133K ($212–266K) $259

$133–167K (266–334K) $370

$167–200K (334–400K) $480.90

$200–500K (400–750K) $591.90

> $500K (> $750K) $628.90

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Part D surcharges follow similar income tiers (e.g., ~$13.70–$85.80/mo)

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✅ How to check if IRMAA applies to you

Check your income from two years ago

Look up your MAGI on your 2023 tax return. If it’s above the thresholds, IRMAA may apply

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Watch for notices from SSA

First, you’ll get a “predetermination” notice.

Then an “Initial Determination Notice” explaining the surcharge and how to appeal if needed

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Check your Medicare bill

What do you like most about being a Medicare agent?

Answer: The part I enjoy most is making Medicare simple for people who feel overwhelmed. It's not just about plans and premiums it’s about helping someone feel confident about one of the most important decisions they’ll make in retirement. I get to listen to real concerns, explain options clearly, and make sure people get the benefits they deserve. Knowing that I’ve helped someone avoid costly mistakes or find a plan that truly fits their life—that’s what makes this work rewarding.