TSCL enthusiastically supports these measures since they would go a long way in increasing access to more affordable prescription drugs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries. However, President Obama's budget request does include one reform to the Medicare program that TSCL opposes. It would increase means testing by requiring middle-class Medicare beneficiaries to pay higher Part B and Part D premiums. TSCL believes means testing within the program has gone far enough with recent increases under the Affordable Care Act, and we know that middle-class seniors simply cannot afford to pay higher out-of-pocket Medicare costs..Advocates who help retirees enroll in these programs say that, even if your income is slightly above the eligibility limits, you might still qualify because certain types of income and assets may not be counted..To learn more about deducting medical expenses, see IRS publication 502, which can be downloaded at..I turn 65 next year, and have very good healthcare coverage through my husband's employer. I need Humira for rheumatoid arthritis. The drug retails for more than ,250 a dose, which I require monthly. My husband's plan normally has a co-pay of 0 for Humira, but through a special arrangement I'm required to pay only $Do I have to give up this coverage when I sign up for Medicare?.Never provide your Social Security number, credit card, or banking information to anyone requesting it over the phone or at your home..But no matter how legislation would be structured, Canadian health experts are warning that the plan could accelerate drug shortages in Canada. Attempting to fill the U.S. consumers' needs with pharmaceuticals from our smaller northern neighbor could not only drain supplies in Canada, but also drive up prices in that government-run health system, opponents say..We strongly recommend that you call your dad's health plan and ask for a detailed statement including dates of stays and services billed. Keep careful notes of your call. If you are still unsatisfied, you can get free one-on-one counseling through your state health insurance assistance programs that may be able to help you determine what costs should have been covered and whether you should appeal the charges. Find a program in your area here..You can work while you receive Social Security benefits. When you do, your benefits may be reduced if you earn more than certain limits. But after you reach full retirement age, the Social Security Administration recalculates your benefits and it will be increased to account for the benefits withheld due to excess earnings. The work you do now could mean a higher benefit for you in the future, and that will be important in helping you to afford health care and other big cost increases later on..Stay Informed and Sign up for the TSCL Newsletter
