What to know
- IRMAA is based on income information from a prior tax return.
- It can apply to both Part B and Part D.
- Certain life-changing events may support a request for a new determination.
What IRMAA is
The income-related monthly adjustment amount is an additional charge paid by some higher-income Medicare beneficiaries for Part B and Part D. Social Security generally uses federal tax-return data provided by the IRS.
Why retirement matters
The tax return used for the determination may reflect income earned before retirement. If income has dropped because of a recognized life-changing event, Social Security provides a process to request a lower adjustment.
Use current official thresholds
Income brackets and premium amounts can change annually. Check the current Social Security notice and official yearly tables rather than relying on an older article or calculator.