Doug had worked as a pilot for Delta for 37 years and was eagerly anticipating his retirement as he neared his 65th birthday. He had already applied for Medicare and was reviewing his plan options when, unexpectedly, he received a letter from Social Security. The letter informed him that his Medicare Part B premium would be significantly higher due to his income. Concerned, Doug scheduled an appointment with me to discuss his options.

During our meeting, I explained that Social Security determines Medicare Part B premiums based on an individual's Adjusted Gross Income from two years prior. Since Doug had experienced a qualifying life event (retirement) that impacted his current income, we could submit an SSA-44 form to request that Medicare adjust his Part B premium based on his retirement income, rather than his earnings as an active pilot. This saved Doug over $5,000 annually.

Now, Doug is using those savings to book various excursions while he travels the United States in his motorhome. Having seen the country from 35,000 feet, he now wants to experience it from a different persective, with his feet firmly planted on the ground. He's already sent me a picture of him and his wife rafting down the Colorado river with Horseshoe Bend in the background.