How can I lower my Medicare Part B premium if my income drops after retirement?

Question

John L Herman Jr · Accepted Answer

Depending on your personal situation you may qualify for a State Medicaid Program…and in certain situations have the State pay for the PART “B” premium.

Mike Alexander · Answer

You must file am SSA 44 form, its available on ssa.gov
Then you have to mail it to your local SSA office in your zip code.
Be sure to send by Certified mail.
You should contact your Cpa as they know how to fill out this form.
Ssa approves about 70% of ssa44 firms that are filed properly

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

Hi, thanks for watching. So the question is, how can someone lower their Part B premium if their income drops after retirement? The answer to that is the Part B premium this year in 2025 is $185 a month. That's if you made under $106,000 two years ago. The look back is two years; they always look back two years. If you made over $106,000 or $212,000 as a couple, then you're going to get what they call the IRMAA upcharge. It's a surcharge. Basically, they're going to charge you more because you're making more than most people. But you can't get it lower than $185 unless you qualify for extra help. Maybe you're on Medicaid or if you have a lower income. In that case, you want to go to Social Security, tell them what you're making, and maybe they can help you with that Part B premium.

Mark Bilgere · Answer

Fortunately, your retirement counts as a Life Changing Event. You can file FormSSA-44 along with proof of your retirement and request that your IRMAA be recalculated.

Norman Smith · Answer

There is a link through Media care .con where if you make a particular lower level of income per month, that you can apply for assistance. Not guaranteed. Otherwise, you are subject to the determined Part B Premium set for all participants.

Answered by Norman Smith on August 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, NJ & PA

Answered by Norman Smith Medicare Insurance Agent

Larry Dalton · Answer

The medicare part B premium can be reduced in a few ways.  

If you’re on a Medicare supplemental plan, you can always move to another one if you pass the health issue questions.  All Medicare supplemental plans are identical if you’re discussing a Plan G with one company or another.  The premiums are the only changes between companies with the same Plan.

If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, you may qualify for low-income help in several areas. This will depend up on the state you live in and your ZIP Code.  A trustworthy agent can help you locate the best possible plan to meet your financial needs.

Ann Sanfelippo · Answer

If your income drops after retirement, you could lower your Medicare part B premium by applying for state Medicaid.

If you are eligible for state Medicaid, apply, and then are approved for state Medicaid, your state will pay 100% of your Medicare part B premium.

If you are not eligible for state Medicaid, there are other ways to reduce your part B premium but that would require you to speak to a licensed medicare agent who can help you.

Answered by Krystal Hampton on July 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in MD, AR, AZ & 22 other states

Answered by Krystal Hampton Medicare Insurance Agent

Charise Karjala · Answer

Thank you for the question, which is how can I lower my Medicare Part B premium if my income drops after retirement? Well, great question, because this is a financial planning and budgeting question. So if you're preparing for Medicare, whether you're 40 or 64, just know that Medicare does charge a standardized fee, which changes along with the finance committee. So at present, it's $185. In 2025, it's set to go up to just over $200 for 2026. And that's the standardized Part B premium.

Now, if you make more money than $105,000 approximately, or about $185,000 if you're a couple, then you're going to pay more, and substantially more, upwards of perhaps even $600 per person if you're making in excess of half a million dollars as an individual or as a family. So the question being that how can I lower my Medicare Part B premium if my income drops after retirement? Well, that depends on what your baseline is. So if you're paying $600 a month for your Medicare and your income goes down below $100,000 a year, then of course your premium is going to go down. It's just going to be part of the calculation based on your income.

Now, the other option is to have a drastic change in your income, which means that as an individual you're making less than $24,000 a year, which is just dreadful. There are people that survive on that income. And in fact, they will pay very, very little, if not zero, for their Part B premium, which is our commitment as a society to take care of the least of us, the poor, and the disabled. So I don't want that for you. Obviously, I want you to be healthy and well and financially happy. But if your income does become very low, then there is an option for that.

And how do we access that? We have to go to our state, which administers our Medicaid benefits, and we apply with them. And we have to do what's called recertification every year, which shows them that we haven't become rich overnight. So it's a dreadful thing, and I don't wish it upon anybody, but it's there as remediation for those individuals that have low incomes. So I hope that helps. Thank you so much.

Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF · Answer

You would have to check and see if you qualify for one of the Medicaid levels (state program) that assist in paying those premiums. Depending on your health, you may also look at one of the insurance carriers that offer what is called a "part B Giveback". These plans most of the time have a higher out of pocket maximum in medical cost (when you use them) but if you are relatively healthy it could be an option. They are called give back programs because they put money back into your social Security check and this essentially reduces your part B premium.

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF on November 3, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, GA, IN, KY & TN

Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF Medicare Insurance Agent

Lynn C Shurtleff · Answer

If your income drops below the amount to have your state pay the Part B premium through the Medicare Savings program that could help, but it depends on your income AND assets. There are Medicare Advantage plans that giveback or rebate a portion of the Part B premium but it depends on what plans are available in your area and if your doctors are in network for these carriers and plans. If you are paying a higher amount for your Part B premium due to higher income, once the income drops contact Social Security and let them know and ask to appeal the higher amount due to a drop in income.

Answered by Lynn C Shurtleff on August 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AR, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Lynn C Shurtleff Medicare Insurance Agent

Gregg Matheny · Answer

All states have a threshold for “state Assistance” that if you are under then it will pay for your Medicare part B as well as some deductibles and some RX costs. If you don’t meet the financial criteria then your only other option to lower the part B cost is with a benefit called a “part B reduction”. Be careful when looking at plans that offer this because a few of them are “MA ONLY” plans which means they don’t include RX coverage. If you will be relying on your plan to get medications, then you want an MAPD with a part B premium reduction.

Answered by Gregg Matheny on March 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ & UT

Answered by Gregg Matheny Medicare Insurance Agent

Jacqueline Proffit · Answer

If your income drops after retirement, you may be able to significantly lower your Medicare Part B premium by requesting a new determination based on a "life-changing event."

Michael Denniston · Answer

When your income drops below certain levels you can apply for help with your part B premium payment, its called the Medicare Savings Plan, also part of LIS and extra help. There is help there for people with low means. I can help. Michaels Insurance Solutions.

Answered by Michael Denniston on June 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, AR & 11 other states

Answered by Michael Denniston Medicare Insurance Agent

Tasha Riggs · Answer

You can apply for LIS. Limited Income Subsidy. 
Some Medicare advantage plans will help pay for part B if you really need it.

Paul Potter · Answer

Medicare will adjust your Part B premium and Income Related Medicare Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) automatically each year.  You can appeal their decision if you have mitigating circumstances.  

I have a IRMAA schedule if you would like me to send it, please send an email to me.

Andrew Firmin · Answer

How can I lower my Part B premium if my income drops once I'm in retirement? Now, your Part B premium is based off your income as reported on your tax return two years prior. Depending on what that income is, Medicare and Social Security may charge you what's called an income-related monthly adjustment amount, or IRMAA, for sure. Now, if your income drops because of a life-changing event, for example, if you reduce your hours or retire and that brings your income to a much lower level than it was two years ago, you can often file what's called a redetermination. Basically, this indicates to Medicare and Social Security, "Hey, I am no longer working, and therefore I'm not earning the same amount I was two years ago." Therefore, I shouldn't be held liable to continue paying this added amount.

Additionally, if your income drops significantly below certain levels—and this depends on your state—you may be eligible for programs such as Medicaid, a low-income subsidy, or the Medicare savings program. Each state may have additional programs. So, it's important to understand those are opportunities to review the coverage and available plans within your service area and seek alternative methods should your income drop significantly. Hope that provides some direction. Until next time, be healthy and be well.

Sandra Teel · Answer

If you have incurred a higher Part B premium because you were considered a high-income earner, you can ask Medicare for a reconsideration if your income has dropped significantly.

Every year Medicare looks at your Adjusted Gross Income from 2 years previously to determine what you will pay for Part B.  If you were a high-income earner, then you received a letter letting you know that your Part B premium would be adjusted. In that letter there is an explanation of how to apply for a reconsideration.

If your income has decreased significantly and takes you to a lower premium bracket, Medicare will automatically decrease your Part B premium to match the new lower premium level when they look at your filed income taxes.

Dutch VanHoesen · Answer

There is a form (SSA-44) to waive or appeal. Once the IRS reports your income under the IRMAA limit, your premiums will drop.

Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI · Answer

If you've had a change in income after retirement and are currently paying an increased premium for your Medicare Part B and Part D, you may be eligible to request Social Security Administration to reconsider your Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount based on various life events, including marriage/divorce/death of a spouse, work reduction/stoppage, and loss of income. You can do this by completing form SSA-44.

Answered by Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI on August 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in NC & SC

Answered by Cody Hebden, MBA, CLU, FLMI Medicare Insurance Agent

Chad Sickle, RN · Answer

If your income drops after you retire, you may be able to lower your Medicare Part B premium.

Right now, your premium is based on income from about two years ago. So if you were still working then, it might be higher than it should be.

The good news is you can request a reduction by filing a simple form with Social Security (Form SSA-44) and letting them know you’ve retired and your income is lower.

Once they review it, they can lower your premium and sometimes even refund what you overpaid.

Lauryn Ivey · Answer

You can use Form SSA-44, Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (Life-Changing Event) and file that with your Social Security Office with the supporting documentation that shows your income reduction. Also, if you have an accountant or tax professional that you already work with, they can assist you with this form because they do this on a regular basis. You should also be able to Google the above referenced form, or go to SSA.gov and navigate their website to locate the form.

Answered by Lauryn Ivey on June 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in AL

Answered by Lauryn Ivey Medicare Insurance Agent

Edward Givens · Answer

Your Medicare Part B premium is based on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) from two years prior (per the Medicare & You 2025 handbook). So, for example, your 2025 premium is based on your 2023 tax return.

If your income has dropped due to retirement or another life change, here’s how you can potentially lower your premium:

1. Request a “Life-Changing Event” Adjustment

The Social Security Administration (SSA) handles Medicare premium billing. They allow you to appeal your Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) if you’ve had a life-changing event that reduces your income, such as:

Retirement or reduced work hours

Marriage, divorce, or annulment

Death of a spouse

Loss of pension income

Employer settlement payments

File Form SSA-44 (Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount – Life-Changing Event). You’ll need documentation (such as your retirement letter, pension change notice, or tax return).

2. File Taxes to Reflect Your Lower Income

If you’re newly retired, your recent tax return may not yet reflect your reduced income. Filing the appeal with updated tax information helps SSA re-calculate your Part B premium.

3. Consider Timing for Retirement Withdrawals

Large withdrawals from 401(k)s, IRAs, or capital gains can temporarily spike your MAGI and increase your premiums.

Planning withdrawals strategically (with a financial advisor) can help you stay under IRMAA thresholds.

4. Apply for Medicare Savings Programs (if eligible)

If your income drops significantly, you may qualify for state programs that help pay your Part B premium (and sometimes Part A and D too). These include:

QI (Qualified Individual Program)

SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary Program)

QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program)

5. Stay Proactive

Watch for your IRMAA determination letter from SSA.

If your income goes down again, you can re-appeal.

Keep records of retirement changes, pensions, or severance payments.

Bottom line: You don

Robert Reed · Answer

So the question is, how can I lower my Medicare Part B premium if my income drops after retirement? Well, you have a few options, but one option could be to find a plan that offers a Part B premium give back. This is where the plan will actually put money back on your Social Security to help mitigate those costs of your Part B premium.

Steve Thornton · Answer

If your income has recently decreased due to retirement or another qualifying life event, you may be eligible to lower your Medicare Part B premium in two ways. First, you can request an IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) reconsideration through Social Security. Medicare bases your Part B premium on your tax return from two years prior, so if your income has dropped significantly since then, you can file Form SSA-44 to request an adjustment based on your current income.

Second, you can explore Medicare Advantage plans that offer a Part B premium “giveback”. These plans, offered by private insurance carriers, provide a monthly rebate — also known as a Part B premium reduction — which lowers the standard $174.70 monthly Part B premium for 2025. The giveback is applied directly to your Social Security check, reducing the amount withheld each month.

John Hose · Answer

The premium is based on your taxable income from 2 years prior. When your income declines the premium will be reduced. You should consider talking with your planner, if you have one, who may be able to provide advice on how to bring your taxable income down.

Answered by John Hose on October 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in MD, FL, NC & 7 other states

Answered by John Hose Medicare Insurance Agent

Jason Hark, MBA, CMIP · Answer

If your income goes down after you retire, you can ask Medicare to lower your Part B premium by reporting your new income. You do this by filling out a form called the “Extra Help” or “Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) appeal.” This can help make your monthly costs cheaper based on what you earn now.

Answered by Jason Hark, MBA, CMIP on June 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, AL, AR & 17 other states

Answered by Jason Hark, MBA, CMIP Medicare Insurance Agent

Joseph Ritter · Answer

Key Steps:
Download Form SSA-44
You can find it on the Social Security website.

Choose “Work Stoppage” or “Work Reduction” as your life-changing event.

Provide Proof
Include documentation such as:

A letter from your employer confirming retirement
Your final pay stub
A copy of your severance agreement or pension documents
Submit the Form to Social Security:
By mail
In person at your local SSA office


Why This Matters:
Your Part B premium is based on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) from 2 years ago. But if your current income is much lower due to retirement, you can often get your premium reduced immediately — no need to wait two years.

Kim Fisher · Answer

You can either contact social security and ask for the forms to complete or go on ssa.gov and download the forms.

Joshua Allen · Answer

Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount: Life-Changing Event (Form SSA-44) can be used to reduce or eliminate the additional premium adjustments charged to those with higher income. There are 8 Life-Changing Events: Marriage, Divorce/Annulment, Death of Your Spouse, Work Stoppage, Work Reduction, Loss of Income-Producing Property, Loss of Pension Income, and Employer Settlement Payment. If you have one of these events that results in a reduction of income, this form will reduce or eliminate the IRMAA immediately rather than waiting for it to happen automatically 2 years later.

Answered by Joshua Allen on May 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AZ & 20 other states

Answered by Joshua Allen Medicare Insurance Agent

Patricia Lewis · Answer

If you have been subjected to the IRMAA charge and your financial situation changes, you can appeal that IRMAA charge and hopefully get it reduced or removed. Since they look back 2 years, a lot could have changed, and you have to let them know. 

The only other way I know to lower your Part B premium is to pick a Medicare Advantage plan that offers a giveback.

Rodney Turner · Answer

If your income drops after retirement, you could lower your Medicare part B premium by applying for state Medicaid.

If you are eligible for state Medicaid, apply, and then are approved for state Medicaid, your state will pay 100% of your Medicare part B premium.

If you are not eligible for state Medicaid, there are other ways to reduce your part B premium but that would require you to speak to a licensed medicare agent who can help you.

Shane Bullock · Answer

There are programs called Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) that can help folks with lower income and limited assets pay for their Medicare Part A and Part B premiums as well as penalties (if there are any). Certain MSPs even help with cost-sharing, meaning they can help pay out-of-pocket costs for medical services.

If you think you may qualify, your state Medicaid office will be able to help determine if you qualify for assistance with your Medicare premiums and/or cost-sharing through an MSP. They can also help you submit an application.

Tyler Dalton · Answer

Congrats, you did well. High income, strong career, and now you're seeing that IRMAA surcharge show up on your Medicare premium. 

That’s the government’s way of saying, “Thanks for your success. Here’s a little extra to pay each month.”

But here’s what most people don’t know.

Medicare bases your premium on your income from two years ago. So if you’ve just retired or had a big drop in income, you might be getting charged based on outdated info. And that means you could be overpaying.

The fix? It’s called an IRMAA appeal. You fill out a form SSA-44 and tell Social Security what changed. Retirement, income loss, divorce, work stoppage there’s a list of life events they recognize. If your income now is lower than what they’re using, they’ll often adjust your premium.

We help people with this all the time. The form is free. The savings are real. And the process is more straightforward than you'd think once someone shows you how to do it.

Don’t pay more than you should. If this sounds like your situation, give us a call or swing by the office. We’ll walk you through it step by step.

Jonathan Paddon · Answer

Higher income individuals may be subject to the Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) resulting in paying more that the standard Medicare Part B premium, as well as an additional amount added to your Medicare part D prescription drug plan premium. If this applies to you and you have a qualifying life event such as income reduction due to retirement, you can file form SSA-44 with the Social Security Administration to request a a premium reduction to reflect your new lower income. Otherwise you would have to pay the higher amount for up to two years until your premium would be recalculated based on your tax return. (Your Medicare premium is based on your tax return from two years prior unless you have a qualifying life event and file form SSA-44).

Answered by Jonathan Paddon on November 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in TN, AL, FL, GA, IL & MS

Answered by Jonathan Paddon Medicare Insurance Agent

Sean Cusack · Answer

Hello, great question. When you first sign up for part b, the rate you pay is determined from your last two years of income. When your income goes down after retirement, you can fill out the income related adjustment form. This form can be found on the SSA. Gov website. It will be under the Medicare tab. Choose forms and you will find it. 
Thanks,

Isom Julian · Answer

If your income drops after retirement, you could lower your Medicare part B premium by applying for state Medicaid.

If you are eligible for state Medicaid, apply, and then are approved for state Medicaid, your state will pay 100% of your Medicare part B premium.

If you are not eligible for state Medicaid, there are other ways to reduce your part B premium but that would require you to speak to a licensed medicare agent who can help you.

Answered by Krystal Hampton on July 18, 2025

Agent Licensed in MD, AR, AZ & 22 other states

Steven Bleicher · Answer

Once the IRS’ data checks in with the Medicare data, if the Adjusted Gross Income has lowered significantly, the Part B monthly premium will change. You have the right to call 1-800-Medicare to notify them of this major income change and your obligation will be decreased.

Answered by Steven Bleicher on May 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Diana Garner · Answer

You can request an adjustment from the Social Security Administration by filing Form SSA-44. This form allows you to demonstrate a life-changing event, such as retirement, that has affected your income and may qualify for a reduction or elimination of the increased premium.

If your income drops significantly, you may qualify for the Medicare Savings program, which can help cover the Part B Premiums.

Jim Tretola · Answer

There are programs that assist with lower incomes. In addition, you can consider Medicare Advantage plans that offer a Part B Give Back that can lower your cost.

Timothy Brown · Answer

Contact Social Security to report a change income and they will adjust your Medicare Part B premium accordingly.

Ron Cronwell · Answer

If your income dropped low enough you might qualify for Medicaid or a level of Medicare Savings Program where the state would pay your Part B premium. Contact your state Medicaid office to get more information.

While investigating  Medicaid, ask a local insurance agent to help you apply for Extra Help With Prescription Drugs. LIS is a income limited program through Social Security.

Rick Boyd · Answer

The part B premium is set by CMS which oversees Medicare. For 2025 the part B base premium is $185.00/mo, and will most likely increase for 2026. If you have filed over the last two years as Single, and have an AGI of $106,000/year or less, or filed Married and have an AGI of $212,000 or less, you pay the base premium. Above these limits for 2025 you will pay more for your part B premium. There are some Advantage Plans that offer a Part B "give back" of a certain amount that reflects as a lower Part B premium. The amount of the give back is dependent on the carrier and plan you enroll in.

Answered by Rick Boyd on July 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in KY, AZ, CA & OH, TN, TX & UT

Answered by Rick Boyd Medicare Insurance Agent

Robert Baez · Answer

There are plans/carriers that help with this. Please contact me and I’ll help you.

Barbara Patterson, CFP · Answer

If you are subject to IRMAA higher premiums and your income goes down you can appeal IRMAA thru SSA to get Part B lowered possibly.

Deb Haley · Answer

In Massachusetts if your income drops below $2,824 a month for an individual for $3,833 for a married couple you can apply for a Medicare savings program that will pay your Medicare Part B premium and potentially some of your copays.

Answered by Deb Haley on May 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in MA, AZ, CA & 11 other states

Answered by Deb Haley Medicare Insurance Agent

Melanie Rogers · Answer

You can submit a form SS-44 to Social Security to inform them that your income will be lower after retirement. I would suggest submitting this form and then following up by calling to speak to them to make sure that they have received the form and have it in their system. They will review this form at the end of the year when they are making determinations for your Part B cost for the following year. It is very important to be accurate on what your income will be, so as not to cause any over-billing or under-billing of the Part B cost amount. Melanie Rogers, contact me.

Answered by Melanie Rogers on April 16, 2026

Agent Licensed in FL, GA, OH & TX

Answered by Melanie Rogers Medicare Insurance Agent

David Koller · Answer

Contact your Social Security office and they will help you update your income and reduce your premium to part B

Glenn Quinn · Answer

If you are paying ERISA and your income drops to the Norma range due to retirement, you can appeal to Social Security and as for a review. 
If you are low income as a result of lost incomyou can apply for Low Income Subsidy.

Trina Knoche · Answer

You can file an Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount form (IRMAA) (SSA-44) for life changing events with Social Security. This form can be used for marriage, divorce, the death of a spouse, loss of income, and an employer settlement payment.

Answered by Trina Knoche on January 12, 2026

Agent Licensed in WA, AK, MT & OR

Answered by Trina Knoche Medicare Insurance Agent

Sheila Dow · Answer

You would have to complete an IRMAA forgiveness form to show why your Current Income is lower than your working Income. 
Usually the life changing event is work stoppage.  You report your estimated income and submit the form to Social Security for approval

Bill Slaughter · Answer

Apply for LIS through Social Security, or take a plan without drugs through a giveback program in Medicare Advantage.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

ou can request a reconsideration of your Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) by filing Form SSA-44 with the Social Security Administration (SSA). This form reports a life-changing event like retirement, which can significantly impact your income.

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on June 8, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

This is a common issue with people that have large incomes and then they retire and their income is going to be much lower. What you need to do is call social security and estimate your future income and they should be able to lower your part B payment if you're paying more for part B due to your income being over the base levels

Answered by Gary Henderson on September 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states

Answered by Gary Henderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Meghan Blankenship · Answer

Medicare bases your Part B premium on your income from two years ago. If you've retired and your income has dropped, you don't have to keep paying the higher premium. You can file Form SSA-44 with Social Security to show your new income, and they'll lower your premium accordingly.

Answered by Meghan Blankenship on November 25, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, MD & OH

Answered by Meghan Blankenship Medicare Insurance Agent

Carol Thompson · Answer

By consulting with an agent - she/he can verify your income to see if you qualify or are eligible for Medicare savings programs or Medicaid. There are also plans depending on your service area that offer giveback or rebates for part b as well.

Answered by Carol Thompson on July 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, LA, MI & NC, SC, VA & WI

Answered by Carol Thompson Medicare Insurance Agent

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

You can't. The premium is the same for all. The only thing you can do is apply for state associations.

Jack Mayer · Answer

You may be eligible for extra help, contact SSA for more information and if you meet the requirements they may be able to help or you could search for a modest give back through some carriers like United Healthcare but typically you can have a higher annual out of pocket. They give you something but it's never free, you may have a greater share of cost annually if you buy into a give back plan.

Answered by Jack Mayer on September 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA & NV

Answered by Jack Mayer Medicare Insurance Agent

Jennifer Kalbach · Answer

Some Medicare Advantage plans have a giveback which helps lower your Part B premium by providing money back into your SSI account (you pay the premium and they give you back) another way is if you qualify for a DSNP plan (dual eligible with Medicaid) these plans offer help in paying for your Part B premium.

Answered by Jennifer Kalbach on November 17, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY

Answered by Jennifer Kalbach Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Kim · Answer

Call Social Security office and let them know. Or just walk in with proof like you income tax papers, or anything else showing a drop in your income.

Sam Silva · Answer

To lower your Medicare Part B premium after retirement due to income drop, contact our Medicare Specialists. They stay updated with the latest plan options and regulations.

Tamela Clayton · Answer

One way to lower your Part B premium after your income drops is to ask Social Security to review your case using form SSA‑44.

If they agree that a life change like retirement or reduced work income has lowered your income, they may reduce or remove the extra ‘IRMAA’ surcharge you pay on top of the standard Part B premium. 

An agent can’t change your premium, but we can point you to the right forms and steps so you’re not paying more than you should.

Jeremy Watson · Answer

You may qualify for the Medicare Savings Program based on your income and asset levels. The programs that can save you money as based on both of those factors. You can apply through your state for the Medicare Savings Program. There is also a program called Extra Help that can help on medication costs. This is provided through Social Security and a link to apply can be found on Medicare.gov.

Answered by Jeremy Watson on August 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, FL, KY & MI, OH, SC & TN

Answered by Jeremy Watson Medicare Insurance Agent

Claudia Englert · Answer

There’s no way to avoid the Part B premium unless your income is so low that you qualify for low income subsidy or you qualify for Qualified Medicare Beneficiary or Medicaid. Also there are Medicare Advantage Giveback plans, but I’ve found that those plans have higher co-pays.

Answered by Claudia Englert on November 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH

Answered by Claudia Englert Medicare Insurance Agent

Fran Lovelace · Answer

You can call Social Security to talk with them.  You can also look up for SSA-44 to apply based on current income.

Dennis Sullivan · Answer

Your'e part B premium will automatically be lowered if your'e income is lower in retirement. There are also plans with a part B buyback  for as much as 175$ back on an advantage plan...

Rick Balistreri · Answer

Medicare uses your IRS tax return from two years ago to determine if you owe more than the standard Part B premium. If your income has dropped significantly since then (especially due to retirement), you may be eligible to have your premium reduced.

Your Part B premium is based on the average of your previous two years' adjusted gross income, so when that average drops, you are encouraged to contact Medicare to reduce your Part B premium.

Steven Maicus II · Answer

If your income drops after retirement, you could lower your Medicare part B premium by applying for state Medicaid.

If you are eligible for state Medicaid, apply, and then are approved for state Medicaid, your state will pay 100% of your Medicare part B premium.

If you are not eligible for state Medicaid, there are other ways to reduce your part B premium but that would require you to speak to a licensed medicare agent who can help you.

Emmond Wills · Answer

If your income drops after you retire, you can ask Social Security to lower your Part B premium by filing a “Request for Reconsideration” (Form SSA-44). In regard to life changing events like retirement, loss of income divorce, or death of a spouse.

Answered by Emmond Wills on October 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AZ, FL & 6 other states

Answered by Emmond Wills Medicare Insurance Agent

Robert Moore · Answer

Unfortunately you cannot lower your part B premium. There are ways to reduce the burden of part b. If you fall below a certain monthly income you may qualify for medicaid and they will pay your premiums in some scenarios. Also you can enroll in certain medicare advantage plans that can reimburse you for portions of your part B premium.

Answered by Robert Moore on May 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, AL, IL & 11 other states

Answered by Robert Moore Medicare Insurance Agent

Lakisha Bryant · Answer

To get Medicare part b premium assistance, you would need to apply for medicaid in your state. Apply for the Medicare savings program.

Krystal Hampton · Answer

If your income drops after retirement, you could lower your Medicare part B premium by applying for state Medicaid. 

If you are eligible for state Medicaid, apply, and then are approved for state Medicaid, your state will pay 100% of your Medicare part B premium.

If you are not eligible for state Medicaid, there are other ways to reduce your part B premium but that would require you to speak to a licensed medicare agent who can help you.

Daniel Matar · Answer

You may consider enrolling in a MA/PD plan that has a giveback feature. This will lower your part B premium in some cases. You can also check with the SSA to request an income related monthly adjustment

Answered by Daniel Matar on August 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, FL, NC & OH

Answered by Daniel Matar Medicare Insurance Agent

Christopher Stewart · Answer

The standard Medicare Part B premium for 2025 is $185 per month. Now, if you make over a certain threshold ($106,000 for individuals and $212,000 for joint tax payers for 2025) you will incur an increased Part B and Part D premium, this is called IRMAA. Based on how much over the $106k/$212k threshold you make, you can incur increased premiums of 1.4x up to 3z4x the standard amount. So, in order to "lower" your part B amount under the standard $185, you would have to qualify for Medicaid through your state.

Answered by Christopher Stewart on May 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 6 other states

Answered by Christopher Stewart Medicare Insurance Agent

Brian Williams · Answer

The Part B premium is standard for all Medicare participants that have Part A and Part B. You are able to reduce the cost of Part B with a Medicare Advantage plan that includes a Part B giveback. Contact a Medicare Agent to help you find a plan with that benefit. 

You may also reduce the Part B premium if you qualify for Low Income Subsidy (LIS) or Medicaid.

Louanne Allison · Answer

There is a form available to submit a request to lower the Medicare Part B premium to Social Security and Medicare.  Check with me or your insurance agent for details and help to submit the request.

Curtis Stoner · Answer

In 2025 $185 is the standard Medicare Part B premium. If your income has dropped below certain thresholds you may be qualify for the Medicare Savings Program.  You can find more information regarding this on Medicare.gov.

Susan Winters · Answer

Giveback Plans: Some Medicare Advantage plans offer a “giveback” — they reduce your monthly Part B premium by giving back part of it. This can help lower your overall costs.

Medicaid: If your income and assets are very low, you may qualify for Medicaid, which can help cover Medicare costs, including premiums, deductibles, and copays.

Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) / Extra Help: This program helps pay for your Medicare Part D prescription drug costs if you qualify based on income and resources.

Ken Correa · Answer

You can lower your Part B premium by filing form SSA-44 with the Social Security Administration. This form allows you to request a recalculation of your income to reflect your current retirement income level and if approved your premium can be changed.

Jason Meadows · Answer

If your income drops after retirement, you may be able to lower your Medicare Part B premium by requesting a review of your income. Medicare uses a prior tax year to set premiums, so if your current income is lower due to a qualifying life event—like retirement—you can file an appeal using Form SSA-44 with the Social Security Administration.

If approved, your premium can be adjusted to reflect your current, lower income instead of your past earnings, which can significantly reduce what you pay each month.

Tammy Monjaras · Answer

The Medicare Part B premium uses a two-year look back to determine your premium or IRMA(Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount. The premium is based on a sliding scale. As your income increases or decreases, your premiums will be based on the two-year look-back. However, there is an appeal process available. If you experience a life-changing event such as retirement, marriage/divorce, or loss of income that causes your income to drop significantly from two years ago, you can file an appeal with Social Security using Medicare Form SSA-44. For more information, check out the Medicare Cost Overview for a rate table. 

Hope this information helps!

Christie Bondos · Answer

The IRMAA Look back period is 2 years from the year we are in so for 2025 it's 2023. You should also consult with your Accountant for more information pertaining to your particular situation.

Amine Amraoui · Answer

There are Medicare advantage plans that will reimburse you a portion of your part B premium up to $185

Aubrey Prince · Answer

To find out if you can lower your Medicare part B cost please reach out to me. I will let you know if you qualify for savings to decrease your out of pocket!

Justin Hundley · Answer

Retirement, reduced work hours, or other income-reducing events can trigger a review of your Medicare premium. You will need to report a "life-changing event" to the Social Security Administration. 

You will also want to connect with your local Medicaid office to see if you can qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP) to assist with not only the cost of your premiums, but potentially the costs for copays, prescriptions, etc.  

If you do happen to qualify for assistance through Medicaid, you may potentially be eligible for different plan options in your area. It is advised to work with a licensed Medicare agent to determine what options are available for you.

Sarah Murphy · Answer

In order to be able to lower your premium for Medicare Part B you would need to complete the SSA-44 form and request a reduction. The form can be found on the Social Security Administration's Website. Along with the form, please make sure you are providing documentation to support the request. Documentation could be the last tax return or what your anticipated  income is after a life changing event.  Submit the documentation and the form to the social security office. It is important that you act promptly and have all of your documentation in order.  Still need help? Reach out to a profession such as a Medicare Advisor to help you.

Michael Waldron · Answer

Contact Social Security and ask them to lower your Medicare Part B premium by filing Form SSA-44. You will need to report a “life-changing event” such as work stoppage. They will use this to recalculate your premium based on your new, lower income instead.

Maxine Rosen · Answer

This is a very good issue to consider- 

Your medicare part B premium can be reduced in a several possible ways.

If you’re on a Medicare supplemental plan, you can always move to another one if you pass the health issue questions. All Medicare supplemental plans are identical if you’re discussing a Plan G with one company or another. The premiums are the only changes between companies with the same Plan.

If you’re on a Medicare Advantage plan, you may qualify for low-income help in several areas. This will depend up on the state you live in and your ZIP Code. 

In some areas of the country there are even Medicare Advantage Plans that can help pay some of your Part B premium too!

LaKeshia Howard · Answer

Hello thank your for contacting, in order to lower your Medicare premium You are able to file an .ssa 44 to report your retirement

Michelle Turner · Answer

Check to see if you're eligible for the Medicare savings program.  You can apply for Medicaid with your state to see if you qualify to get help with paying your part b premium. You can also file an  IRMAA appeal if your income is dropped. Check out the part b give back plans to help get some of your part b premium back into your pocket.

Demetrus Morton · Answer

Send in a life change of event to social security.  Do a medicare monthly income adjustment of your retirement.

Monica Gardner · Answer

You could request an IRMAA reconsideration by filing a SSA-44 Form with the Social Security Administration to report your retirement and reduction in income. OR Check to see if you are eligible for a Medicare Savings Program or Medicaid. You can also apply for LIS ( the Extra Help Program).

Martha Medina · Answer

Hello - Part B is based on your income from the last two years ago. If your income is now lower you can adjusted it by completing a SSA - 44 form which is a income adjustment form.  Please keep in mind that the Part B amount will be adjusted two years later. The form can be submitted in person or by mail.