I retired in August 2026 and want to take a large retirement-account withdrawal this year, which would push my 2026 MAGI above the IRMAA threshold. Since my income will be lower in 2027 due to retirement, could I use the work-stoppage life-changing event to have my 2028 IRMAA based on my lower 2027 income instead?

Answered by 4 licensed agents

Yes, you can use the Work Stoppage life-changing event in this scenario. When you get your 2028 IRMAA notification (typically comes late 2027), you can file the appeal and indicate Work Stoppage- Life Changing Event, submit the supporting attestation and your estimated income without the one time IRA withdrawal in 2026.

Keep in mind, Medicare utilizes a 2 year you look back rule. Therefore, your 2028 IRMAA is calculated off of your 2026 income.

If you are planning to retire in the next 1-2 years, it's best to consult an advisor and agent that can assist you with properly preparing for retirement. There are a lot rules that needs to be considered to minimize your taxes, impact on IRMAA, how to maximize your assets, and when to start drawing from your accounts (Social Security, 401K, IRA, etc..) and stop funding HSA accounts, and how to AVOID PENALTIES.

Answered by Steven Litzsinger on August 26, 2026

Broker Licensed in MO, AL, FL & 8 other states

Answered by Steven Litzsinger Medicare Insurance Agent
2028 Medicare premium will be based on 2026 MAGI. I do encourage you however to file an SSA-44 regarding one of 7 life events that could be considered by Social Security should they determine to lower or waive your IRMAA. However, if you do not ask for relief, your 2029 premium will automatically be lower as a result of your lower earnings in 2027.

Answered by Heather Majka on August 25, 2026

Broker Licensed in TN, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Heather Majka Medicare Insurance Agent
Yes, you may use the work stoppage as a LCE in 2027 to have your IRMAA reduced in 2028. An additional possibility is to use your expected 2028 income in 2027. If it is even lower than 2027 you could benefit from that also.

Answered by Mark Bilgere on August 26, 2026

Broker Licensed in TX, AR, IN & LA, MN, NE & OK

Answered by Mark Bilgere Medicare Insurance Agent

Answered by Voss Speros on August 24, 2026

Broker Licensed in AZ, CA, CO & 20 other states

Answered by Voss Speros Medicare Insurance Agent

Tags: Advice for Seniors Coverage The Medicare System

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Have insights or experiences related to this topic? Help others by sharing your knowledge and answering this question.

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Questions are generally answered within 1 to 3 business days. Receive valuable perspectives from multiple licensed agents and brokers.

Ask a Question