High-income seniors pay extra for Medicare Part B, which covers doctors’ bills. That’s especially painful for married couples if both spouses are on Medicare. With joint income over $170,000, a married couple will pay two above-average premiums.
Suppose John and Mary have joint income of $175,000. They will pay $3,876 a year for Medicare Part B. That’s twelve months of paying $161.50 times two, for both spouses. Couples with income under $170,000 might pay around $2,300 a year.
What’s more, the income numbers used by Medicare are always two years old. The premium you pay in 2011 is based on reported income for 2009. A couple might be paying for Part B based on a $175,000 income reported in 2009 even though their current income is under $100,000, for instance.
If you’re in such a situation, you can appeal. According to the federal government, you may be able to qualify for lower Medicare premiums for reasons of marriage, divorce, widowhood, and reduced working hours. To appeal, request a reconsideration of the initial determination from the Social Security Administration by calling 800-772-1213.
