financial Archives - Hartz Painting LLC

Medicare 2024 IRMAA Brackets: Amounts and HowMedicare 2024 IRMAA Brackets: Amounts and How

June 19, 2024| Katie Dowd| 0 Comment | 12:00 am

With the announcement of the August CPI-U, the 2024 Brackets are official and they will increase by over 5.00% to start at $103, 000 for an individual.

Now please keep in mind that at any point between now and the beginning of the 2024 Congress or the current Presidential Administration can alter these Medicare IRMAA Brackets, but if they do not then there will be at least a little bit of good news for seniors.

Official IRMAA 2024 Brackets

Single	Couple MAGI	Part B	Part D
< $103, 000	< $206, 000	$174.70	Premium (varies)
$103, 000 to $129, 000	$206, 000 to $258, 000	$244.60	$12.90
$129, 000 to $161, 000	$258, 000 to $322, 000	$349.40	$33.30
$161, 000 to $193, 000	$322, 000 to $386, 000	$454.20	$53.80
$193, 000 to $500, 000	$386, 000 to $750, 000	$559.00	$74.20
> $500, 000	> $750, 000	$594.00	$81.00

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How the IRMAA Brackets adjust:

When Congress created Medicare IRMAA back in 2003 through the passing of the Medicare Moderniztion Act, they ruled that the IRMAA Brackets would adjust by

“The percentage (if any) by which the average of the Consumer Price Index for all urban consumers (United States city average) for the 12-month period ending with August of the preceding calendar year exceeds such average for the 12-month period.”

So, if the CPI-U at the end of August of the current year is greater than the previous August then the IRMAA Brackets will increase. Note the inflation rate does not determine IRMAA costs.

By the way there is no language that would stop the IRMAA Brackets from going down if the CPI-U would actually deflate from year to year.

In terms of the all the Thresholds within the IRMAA Brackets, due to the passing of the Bi-Partisan Budget Act of 2018 the 5^th Threshold in the IRMAA Brackets will not adjust for inflation until 2028.

What is IRMAA:

IRMAA is short for Medicare’s Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount which is according to the Code of Federal Regulations:

“An amount that you will pay for your Medicare Part B and D coverage when your modified adjusted gross income is above the certain thresholds.”

IRMAA is a tax on your income through Medicare Part B and Part D coverage if you have too much income while in retirement.

Will you actually enter IRMAA:

According to the 2022 Medicare Board of Trustees Report, currently, there are over 6.8 million people in IRMAA. These people in IRMAA make up 16.63% of all eligible Medicare beneficiaries.

By 2031, according to recent reports the number of people in IRMAA will double to 13.8 million eligible people in IRMAA.

IRMAA is a revenue generator for both the Medicare and Social Security Programs.

For the Medicare program, IRMAA is an added cost that the person in it must pay. This added cost provides more money each year for the program.

As for Social Security, according to Congress, all IRMAA costs are automatically deducted from any Social Security benefit a person is receiving. Thus, for those who enter IRMAA, Social Security has to pay out less to them which reduces that program’s obligation to pay Benefits.

Navigating the Medicare Increase 2024: What toNavigating the Medicare Increase 2024: What to

June 19, 2024| Norman Curran| 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Imagine waking up to find that your morning coffee costs more than it did yesterday. Now, picture that sensation magnified when it comes to something as vital as our health services. The medicare increase 2024 is not just a headline; it’s a reality check for millions of Americans who rely on Medicare for their health care needs. Stumbling upon an unforeseen invoice for your Medicare Advantage plan evokes a similar sentiment.

The numbers are in, and they spell change. With the standard monthly premium jumping up by $9.80 from last year, wallets will feel lighter come 2024. And let’s talk deductibles – another $14 hike? Yes, it’s happening. These increases affect not only Original Medicare but also Medicare Advantage Plans.

This isn’t about pennies and dimes; it’s about understanding what these increases mean for you and me—the real people behind those Medicare cards tucked away in our wallets. Whether you have Original Medicare, a Medicare Advantage plan, or a Medicare Supplement, these changes will impact your healthcare costs.

Overview of 2024 Medicare Part B Premium and Deductible Increases

Premiums are on the rise in 2024. Yes, both the monthly premium and deductible for Part B are going up. Let’s dive into why that’s happening. These increases apply to both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, as Medicare Advantage plans must cover at least the same benefits as Original Medicare.

Reasons behind the rise in Part B premium and deductible

The main culprit? An expected uptick in healthcare spending. This increase will nibble away at Social Security’s recent cost-of-living adjustment. Rising healthcare costs affect all Medicare plans, including Medicare Advantage, which may lead to higher out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries.

Exploring What Medicare Part B Covers

Ever wonder what’s covered by Medicare Part B? It’s not just doctor visits. Think bigger: outpatient services, home health care, even durable medical equipment. And yes, that includes those lifesaving screenings and preventive services to keep you ticking. Many Medicare Advantage plans offer additional benefits beyond what Original Medicare covers, such as Dental, vision, and hearing services.

Understanding the 2024 Medicare Part A Deductible

Brace yourselves, folks. The Part A deductible is getting a hike in 2024. We’re looking at $1,632 – that’s a $32 jump. It covers your share for the first 60 days of hospital care. Some Medicare Advantage plans may help cover the Part A deductible, so it’s essential to compare plans and understand your coverage options.

Changes to Premiums in 2024

Medicare Part A premiums for 2024: They’re on the rise. But don’t fret, it’s all part of the plan. If you don’t qualify for premium-free Part A, consider exploring Medicare Advantage options that may help cover these costs.

Medicare Part B premiums for 2024: Buckle up; we’re seeing a bump. This increase applies to both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, so it’s crucial to factor this into your healthcare budget.

Medicare Part D premiums for 2024: A slight dip? Yes, please. Many Medicare Advantage plans bundle prescription drug coverage, so be sure to review your plan’s benefits and costs.

The Impact of Medicare Deductibles in 2024

Medicare deductibles are on the rise in 2024. That means more out-of-pocket costs for many. Exploring how these increased Medicare deductibles in 2024 might dent your finances. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer lower deductibles than Original Medicare, so it’s worth comparing your options during the Medicare enrollment period.

Updates to Medicare Part D Coverage and Benefits in 2024

Changes to Medicare drug coverage

The game is changing for Medicare Part D in 2024. In 2024, we’re revamping how prescription medication costs are handled to lighten the financial load. Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage, so be sure to review your plan’s formulary and costs.

The Impact of Rising Medicare Costs on Social Security

Rising Medicare costs could nibble away at the 3.2% boost to Social Security benefits. Imagine getting a raise only to see it vanish before your eyes. That’s the tightrope walk for many come 2024. Opting for a Medicare Advantage plan or a Medicare Supplement may help mitigate the impact of rising Medicare costs on your Social Security benefits.

Conclusion

So, we’ve walked through the maze that is the medicare increase 2024, dodging premium hikes and ducking under deductible jumps. It’s a bit like realizing your coffee costs more but on a scale where it affects how you plan for health care in retirement. Understanding the differences between Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medicare Supplement plans is key to navigating th

OASDI Limit 2024 Update: MaximizeOASDI Limit 2024 Update: Maximize

June 1, 2024| Billie Glenn| 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Last year, we saw a significant shift that rattled the foundations of Social Security contributions. This year is no different; 2024 brings another wave as the oasdi limit 2024 climbs higher than ever before.

You’ve heard whispers at work about it or seen headlines flash across your screen. It’s time to get a clear picture because this change isn’t just news—it directly impacts how much you’ll pay into Social Security and what your future Benefits might look like.

I’m peeling back the layers on these new rules so you can see exactly how they play out in real dollars and cents for both employees and employers alike. Stick around—knowing this could make all the difference when planning for retirement or crunching payroll numbers.

Understanding the OASDI Limit in 2024

The OASDI limit, which affects your paycheck by deducting a portion of it for Social Security taxes, is an impactful part of the Old-Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance program. For those scratching their heads, let me break it down: The Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance program caps how much of your income can be taxed for Social Security each year. And guess what? In 2024 this cap is jumping up to $168,600.

What is the OASDI Limit?

The OASDI limit, or Social security wage base, acts like a ceiling on earnings subject to that familiar social security tax we all love to hate. It’s like saying “You only have to pay up until here; after that enjoy your hard-earned Money.” This isn’t just an arbitrary number though—it’s pegged to average wages which means when we’re all making more dough on average, Uncle Sam adjusts his slice of our pie accordingly.

This leads us into why this matters: if you earn under $168,600 in 2024 (which most people do), every dollar earns its own little shadow called FICA—yep that pesky payroll tax—but if you soar above that amount? Well then congratulations high-flyer. Your additional income gets off scot-free from these particular taxes.

Calculating Your Contributions

You might now wonder how they decide who pays what. So let’s get down with some math fun—you contribute a steady rate of 6.2% towards social security taxes from each paycheck until your earnings hit that sweet spot—the wage base limit ($168,600). Once there however it stops even if salary keeps climbing because there’s no need for wings where eagles dare not perch—or something poetic like that.

Your employer matches this dance step-for-step contributing another 6.2%, so together both are grooving at a combined total rate hovering around 12.4%. But before self-employed folks start feeling left out don’t worry—we haven’t forgotten about you. You guys get double dipped since technically being both employee and employer which brings us to paying full combo meal deal at said tasty tune of 12.4% solo style—all without any fries on side unfortunately.

How the OASDI Limit Affects Social Security Contributions

Buckle up buttercups because changes in these limits affect everyone involved—from workers diligently watching deductions disappear from their paychecks right through companies doing the actual deducting themselves. Employers must keep tabs to make sure correct withholding happens based on updated figures, or else they might face the wrath of IRS spirits come audit time—and nobody wants that kind of unexpected surprise.

Unseen Threats: The Impact Of PPCPs On Your Water QualityUnseen Threats: The Impact Of PPCPs On Your Water Quality

May 13, 2024| Sherry Koss| 0 Comment | 12:00 am

In the intricate realm of water contaminants, PPCPs—Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Products—take center stage, drawing attention to their potential influence on Water Quality. At H2O Solutions, our commitment is to demystify the science behind these unseen threats, providing you with knowledge about substances that could affect the water you consume. In this blog, we delve into the world of PPCPs, examining what they are and how they can Impact your water quality.

Understanding PPCPs

Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Products (PPCPs) constitute a diverse Group of substances originating from medications, cosmetics, and personal care items. These compounds enter our water systems primarily through sewage, encompassing a spectrum of substances—from caffeine and carbamazepine (a medication for bipolar and epilepsy) to gemfibrozil (used to lower lipid levels), ibuprofen (an anti-inflammatory), and estrogens, among others.

The Path of PPCPs

Consumption of medications or use of Personal care products results in the body’s absorption of only a fraction of these substances. For instance, when someone takes ibuprofen, the body may absorb as little as 15%, with the remaining 85% excreted. Improper disposal practices contribute to the concentration of PPCPs in water sources, as individuals may discard unused medications down the drain or inappropriately dispose of them in the trash.

Potential Health Implications

The presence of PPCPs in water raises concerns due to their potential impact on human health. Even to low concentrations of these substances, continuous exposure has been associated with adverse effects. Estrogens may disrupt endocrine functions, and medications like carbamazepine can pose risks to individuals with specific health conditions.

EcoWater Solutions

Addressing the challenge of PPCPs demands advanced water treatment solutions. At H2O Solutions, we offer cutting-edge technologies to target and remove contaminants, including PPCPs. Our unwavering commitment to water quality ensures access to clean and safe water, free from the unseen threats of pharmaceutical and personal care products.

The infiltration of PPCPs into our water systems is a multifaceted issue with potential health implications. By comprehending the sources and impacts of these contaminants, you can take proactive steps to safeguard the water quality you consume. Trust H2O Solutions to provide you with effective water treatment solutions, addressing the diverse challenges posed by PPCPs and ensuring your water remains pure and free from hidden threats. To know if your water is safe, see our free water test.

Questions? We’re Here to Help

Navigating the maintenance and care of your EcoWater treatment system is vital to ensuring its lasting efficiency and performance. Whether it’s understanding salt maintenance, troubleshooting regeneration issues, or planning system deep cleaning, our team, as an EcoWater Systems distributor, is here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us today.

H2O Solutions | Unseen Threats

Kids Shoes: Footwear Purchasing with KidsKids Shoes: Footwear Purchasing with Kids

May 12, 2024| Phyllis Castellanos| 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Shoe purchasing with kids—it can either be a pleasant linking occasion or a disorganized challenge that leaves everyone feeling stressed. But with the correct approach and a bit of tolerance, it’s possible to convert this job into a enjoyable and stress-free quest for the whole clan. In this handbook, we’ll investigate some tested pointers for making kids shoes shopping with kids an satisfying experience that everyone can look forward to.

Handling the Difficulties of Sneaker Buying with Youngsters

Let’s admit it—shopping for boots with children can be a overwhelming task. From choosy youngsters to vociferous pubescents, there’s a wide range of challenges that parents may experience along the way. However, with a bit of preparation and imagination, shoe purchasing can transform into an occasion for top-quality time and constructive memories with your kids.

Selecting the Right Moment: Is Important

The solution to a effective footwear-purchasing trip with little ones often resides in picking the appropriate time. Picking the right hour and day of the week can make a significant impact in your child’s frame of mind and attitude. Make an effort to arrange your acquiring excursion during a time when your kid is well-rested and fed, as starving or tired kids are more prone to get testy and defiant.

Additionally, take into account going to the spendless.com.au outlet during non-peak moments to avoid crowds and prolonged wait times. Workday mornings or early afternoons are usually quieter times to peruse, allowing for a more calm and pleasurable experience for both you and your child.

Setting Expectations: Conveying with Your Kid

Before heading to the footwear shop in Australia, take a moment to discuss the reason of the acquiring trip with your youngster. Elaborate why they need new footwear and involve them in the decision-making procedure by discussing their choices and needs. This aids to set clear expectations and ensures that your child feels engaged and enabled throughout the purchasing occasion.

Enjoyment and Games: Converting Footwear Shopping Entertaining

Change sneaker buying into a fun and exciting expedition by integrating activities and rewards into the encounter. Make a search where your youngster has to locate specific sorts of sneakers or compete with them to a competition of “shoe store bingo”, where they mark off different shoe-related items as they uncover them.

Perseverance and Flexibility: Embracing the Unexpected

No matter how well you organize, it’s important to be prepared for detours and unforeseen twists during your sneaker-acquiring excursion. Kids can be capricious, and what starts as a smooth sailing trip may rapidly veer off course. Be forbearing and versatile, and don’t be frightened to take breaks or change course if needed.

Let your child to articulate their preferences and opinions, regardless of whether they differ from yours. While you might possibly have a particular style or brand in mind, eventually, it’s your little one who can be putting on the shoes, so their comfort and satisfaction should be the primary priority.

Conclusion: Creating Favorable Memories and Encouraging Freedom

Footwear acquiring with little ones in Australia doesn’t have to be a dismal chore—it can be a pleasurable and gratifying experience that fortifies your bond and builds lasting reminiscences. By choosing the right time, creating clear predictions, incorporating fun and games, and welcoming patience and flexibility, you can transform footwear shopping into an quest that your kid looks forward to.

Keep in mind, the objective is not just to uncover the perfect pair of shoes but to cultivate independence and confidence in your youngster as they move through the world of decision-making and self-expression. So, on your next occasion you head to the boot outlet with your little one in tow, accept the journey and enjoy the chance to produce favorable encounters jointly.

Taking time to save for what’s importantTaking time to save for what’s important

April 16, 2024| Doris Haas| 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Members Sean and Amy B. are intentionally saving for what’s important in their life. Keeping track of exactly where their Money goes is important to the couple’s budgeting success and their ability to save up for their goals.

Sean and Amy first became interested in Canopy after driving by a billboard. They were in the middle of a frustrating experience with their previous financial institution and were intrigued by Canopy’s advertisement for its Kasasa Checking accounts.

With the Canopy branch on Francis Ave. in the vicinity of their northside home, they decided to check it out. Both of them appreciate the welcoming atmosphere at the branch.

“Every time I come in to the branch, I get a warm, friendly feeling. And, it isn’t just the coffee. The atmosphere just feels warm and welcome,” Sean said.

At the end of their first month being members, Sean and Amy were pleasantly surprised with the dividends they earned and decided to save those extra funds for one of their goals.

Sean and Amy’s savings strategy? “A dime here and a nickel there,” Amy said.

using the envelope savings method, Sean and Amy set aside a chunk of change at the beginning of the month for each of their spending categories. If they end up spending less than the allotted amount, they take the extra cash and put it towards remodeling their home.

Five years ago, they found the perfect home in north Spokane in a “neat neighborhood”. They love that their neighbors are from a mix of generations.

“Mostly everybody knows each other,” Sean said.

Now that they have their home, they are building up their savings for home improvement projects.

“Our home is over a hundred years old with floors and an unfinished attic that need some love. That means we need to take time to save up,” Amy said.

When the couple isn’t saving up for their next goals, they keep busy with a variety of passions. Both write fiction and are creating stories for a book series and a podcast.

Sean and Amy’s focus on saving and intentional budgeting allows them to enjoy the Things that matter to them.

Canopy Credit Union | Saving

What is Your Money Personality?What is Your Money Personality?

April 12, 2024| Goldie Knight| 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Understanding why we do what we do, what motivates and drives us, or frightens and repels us can help us live more successful lives. Understanding your “Money Personality” can help you reach your Financial goals more easily and with fewer impediments.

Here are some of the traits that make up your “Money Personality”. Read on and see where you think you fit.

Money Worship

Does money solve your problems and always make life better? You may be a money worshipper. While having enough money can make life easier, expecting it to solve every problem can create brand new problems like overspending or racking up credit card debt.

So, what can you do if you think money worship is too big an influence for you? Talk with a Canopy Financial Coach about creating a budget and a strategy for paying off excessive credit card debts.

Money Avoidance

Is money the root of all evil? Do you feel like you just don’t deserve more? Money Avoiders may ignore their finances, avoid thinking about money, and even give money away money in order not to be burdened by it.

If money avoidance is causing problems in your life, talk to Canopy Member Advocate about setting up automatic transfers and payments for retirement plan contributions, savings, loan payments, and more. You won’t have to think about your money as much and you’ll avoid getting behind on payments or running short on cash.

Money Vigilance

A penny saved is a penny earned, right? But some who are too vigilant can be secretive about their money and uncomfortable discussing finances with others. That can be a problem.

If you’re uncomfortable talking to family or friends but still have money questions, reach out to one of our financial coaches for advice. It’s confidential, valuable, and it’s free.

Money Status

Do you believe self-worth equals net worth? Do you think people with money are intrinsically superior or more worthy of high status. While that may motivate you to become more successful and earn more, it might also tempt you to make risky financial decisions or buy expensive, high-status items.

If you’re worried concerns about your money status may be leading you to make unwise decisions, make a rule that you’ll always take a few days to consider something before you pull the trigger and create and stick to a budget to avoid overspending.

Interested in knowing more about your “money personality”? Click the link below.

Canopy Credit Union | Your Money Personality