30, May 2024

Possible 2025 IRMAA

For retirees in medicare the tax of IRMAA is happening and at a more alarming rate than ever before, so much so that the future of IRMAA will impact many more retirees than anyone is planning for. The 2025 irmaa brackets are expected to affect even more retirees than the current brackets. Each IRMAA tier has a corresponding marginal tax rate that determines the additional premium part B and part D surcharges.

In 2007, when IRMAA first came into existence, roughly 1.7 million Medicare beneficiaries were hit with this tax.

Today, in 2023, the amount of people in IRMAA is over a staggering 6.8 million. This is an increase of 9.00% annually from 2007 and the future doesn’t look like it will decrease either.

What is the Future of IRMAA?

According to recent reports from the Trustees of Medicare, by 2030 there will be at least 12.8 million or 25% of all eligible Medicare beneficiaries in IRMAA.

This amount of Medicare beneficiaries who will be in IRMAA, according to the Trustees, must occur, regardless of what the IRMAA thresholds may become as the program itself (Medicare) will be insolvent in just a few years without it.

IRMAA is simply a revenue source for both the Medicare and Social Security programs, without it both programs will be in serious jeopardy. The Social Security Administration uses your Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) to determine your IRMAA tier and corresponding marginal tax rate.

What is IRMAA?

IRMAA, short for Medicare’s Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount, is a surcharge on to of Medicare Part B and D premiums for those who earn to much income. The income-related monthly adjustment amount (IRMAA) is based on your modified adjusted gross income.

IRMAA is a tax on income.

If you earn an income over a certain limit, then your Medicare premiums will increase accordingly. The more you make in oncome the higher your premiums will be. Your adjusted gross income, as reported on your tax return, is used to determine if you are subject to the income-related monthly adjustment amount. The marginal tax rate for IRMAA can be as high as 85% for the highest income tier.

Compounding this issue of IRMAA and its surcharges is that any surcharges you are hit by will reduce your Social Security benefit too.

You pay for your IRMAA surcharges through your Social Security benefit.

So, the more income you earn in retirement the more your Medicare premiums will be and the lower your Social Security benefit will be too. For married couples filing jointly, the IRMAA threshold is higher than for single filers. The Social Security Administration determines your IRMAA tier and premium part B and D surcharges based on your taxable income.

20, May 2024

Four Things to Do After a Slip and Fall on Someone’s Property

If you’ve ever slipped and fallen on someone else’s property, you know how quickly the situation can escalate. First, it’s important to document everything—take photos of the hazard and jot down any relevant environmental conditions. Don’t forget to report the incident to the property manager immediately; a formal report can be crucial later on.

But what about your injuries, no matter how minor they seem? Seeking medical attention should be your next step, not only for your health but also to support any potential claim. While these steps are straightforward, knowing when and how to consult a slip and fall accident attorney might not be as clear—especially when considering the complexities of liability and deadlines. What’s the best approach to ensure you’re not alone in dealing with the aftermath?

Document the Incident

If you’ve had a slip and fall on someone’s property, it’s crucial to document every detail of the incident immediately.

Start by taking clear photos of the exact location where you fell, including any conditions, such as wet floors, uneven surfaces, or obstacles, that may have contributed to your fall.

It’s also helpful to gather the names and contact information of witnesses who saw what happened. They can provide valuable statements later if needed.

Jot down your version of events while they’re fresh in your mind, noting the time and any factors you believe played a role. This record will be essential in understanding your fall’s circumstances and can help in any potential legal actions.

Report the Accident

After documenting your slip and fall, promptly report the accident to the property owner or manager. It’s crucial to let them know what happened as soon as possible. This not only notifies them of the potential hazard but also formally logs the incident in their records.

If the owner isn’t available, find a supervisor or any representative on duty. Explain clearly where and how you fell, making sure they make a written report, and ask for a copy for your records. This will be invaluable later if you need to make a claim.

Don’t forget to get the names and positions of the people you speak with. This ensures you’ve got a direct line of communication for any follow-up.

Seek Medical Attention

Once you’ve reported the accident, ensure you seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. It’s crucial to get checked out because some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, aren’t immediately apparent. Visiting a doctor or an emergency room ensures that you’re safe and that any hidden injuries are diagnosed early.

This step isn’t just about your health; it’s also essential for legal reasons. Documenting your injuries through medical records can prove critical if you decide to pursue a legal claim for your injuries. Don’t delay in getting medical help, as waiting can’t only worsen your condition but also affect the legitimacy of your claim.

Act swiftly and prioritize your well-being.

Consult a Legal Expert

Consulting a legal expert can provide crucial guidance on proceeding with your claim. After you’ve slipped and fallen on someone else’s property, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and the potential for compensation. A lawyer specializing in personal injury cases will evaluate the circumstances of your accident to determine the property owner’s liability. They’ll explain the legal framework, including deadlines for filing a claim and what to expect during the Process.

Your attorney will also negotiate with the property owner’s Insurance company to secure a fair settlement. If necessary, they’re prepared to represent you in court. Don’t underestimate the complexity of legal proceedings; let a professional guide you through the steps to ensure you’re adequately compensated.

9, May 2024

Leading Flags to Express Yourself in America: A Sign of Liberty and Identification

As freedom of expression faces challenges in various forms throughout the nation, flying a flag becomes a a lot more considerable act of expression. Right here, we’ll explore some of the top flags Americans make use of to share themselves and the vital factors behind this lively practice.

1. The U.S.A. Flag

The flag of the USA, commonly referred to as the Stars and Stripes, is possibly the most identified symbol of American flexibility and pride. It stands for the country’s worths, consisting of liberty, justice, and freedom. Many people show the American flag outside their homes, schools, and organizations to show their national pride and nationalism.

2. Trump Flag

Flags bearing the name, picture, or mottos associated with former President Donald Trump are prominent among his advocates. These flags usually signify a specific political placement and are a method for individuals to share their support for his plans and leadership style.

3. Gadsden Flag

The Gadsden flag, including a rattlesnake and the phrase “Don’t Step on Me, ” is a historical American flag that signifies individuality and resistance versus fascism. It’s typically connected with the worths of self-reliance and watchfulness. Get more info: Gadsden flag history

4. Army and Authorities Flags

Flags representing various branches of the armed forces and police are flown to lionize and assistance for the men and women that offer or have served in these functions. These flags frequently decorate homes of solution members and their family members along with public organizations.

5. First -responder Flags

Comparable to army and police flags, those representing initial -responders like firemens and lifesaver are utilized to share appreciation and assistance for these vital neighborhood heroes.

6. Betsy Ross Flag

The Betsy Ross flag, with its circle of 13 celebrities, is thought to be among the earliest types of the American flag. It is usually flown to pay homage to America’s innovative roots and the founding of the country.

7. Historical Battle Flags

Flags from substantial historic problems, such as World War II or the Vietnam War, are flown by veterans, historians, and fanatics to keep in mind the sacrifices made throughout these times. Learn more about Original Gadsden flag

8. Confederate Battle Flags

Civil Battle flags are necessary historic symbols that stand for the intricate history of the USA. These flags are commonly used in reenactments and educational setups to explore and talk about the problems surrounding this turbulent Period in American background.

9. USA Patriotic Flags

General patriotic flags are developed with elements like celebrities, stripes, and eagles to stimulate sensations of satisfaction and nationalism. These are preferred throughout Legal holidays like the Fourth of July or Memorial Day.

10. Revolutionary War Flag

Flags from the American Revolutionary War, such as the Grand Union Flag, stand for the battle for self-reliance from British guideline. They are a reminder of the country’s fight for its starting concepts.

11. “Come and Take It” Flag

This flag, with its historical origins in the Texas Revolution, features a star, a cannon, and the challenge, “Come and Take It.” It symbolizes defiance and is a favored amongst those who support for gun civil liberties and individual freedom.

12. Second Amendment Flags

Flags supporting the Second Amendment, which protects the right to keep and bear arms, are especially considerable in conversations about humans rights and weapon ownership.

13. Great and Funny Flags

Many people select to fly flags that are either trendy or amusing to showcase their character, humor, and uniqueness. These flags could include pop culture referrals, jokes, or innovative designs.

14. Pirate Flag

Pirate flags, especially the famous “Jolly Roger” with its skull and crossbones, are popular for their adventurous and defiant spirit. They are typically made use of at events, in video games, or by boating enthusiasts.

Traveling flags in America is a deep-seated custom that serves numerous functions– from revealing political beliefs and Personal worths to revealing assistance for numerous causes and groups. As the nation browses through times where freedom of speech is viewed to be under risk, these flags stand as a testimony to the long-lasting American spirit of expression and freedom.

25, Apr 2024

How Long Does It Take To Reinstate SSI Benefits?

If your SSI Benefits are ended, you can reinstate them by applying for expedited reinstatement of benefits (EXR). This process typically takes up to six months. During this period, you will be provided with monthly provisional benefits.

However, if your SSI benefits are suspended, there’s a different process for reinstatement. SSI benefits can be reinstated within 12 consecutive months without needing a new application. You can also appeal for reinstatement after the 12-month suspension period ends. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will decide within a month whether to reestablish your SSI benefits. Understanding these timelines and procedures is essential for individuals navigating SSI benefit suspensions and reinstatements. Understanding these timelines and procedures is essential for individuals navigating SSI benefit suspensions and reinstatements.

When Your Benefits are Ended: What is Expedited Reinstatement of Benefits?

Expedited reinstatement of benefits (EXR) is the process through which recipients can have their SSDI or SSI benefits reinstated without the need to submit a new application. This option is available to individuals whose benefits were discontinued for specific reasons:

You stopped receiving benefits due to earnings from work.
You are unable to perform SGA or substantial gainful activity.
You have a disability resulting from an impairment similar to or related to the impairment that initially qualified you for benefits.
You request reinstatement within five years from the month your benefits were discontinued.

Once you apply for EXR, the Social Security Administration (SSA) evaluates your case and, during this process, provides provisional or temporary benefits while determining whether to reestablish your SSI benefits.

What Are Provisional Benefits?

As mentioned earlier, provisional benefits are temporary payments that can be granted to you while the SSA assesses whether to reinstate your benefits. These benefits are made to provide financial support during the decision-making period. Provisional benefits will cease if:

You receive notification that your benefits have been reinstated.
You engage in substantial gainful activity.
You reach full retirement age.

Understanding the availability and conditions of provisional benefits is essential for recipients navigating the reinstatement process, as they can provide crucial financial assistance during this period.

What Is The EXR Process?

Expedited Reinstatement of Benefits (EXR) involves a series of steps to evaluate your eligibility for reinstating your SSI benefits. The Social Security Administration (SSA) manages this process by sending your EXR application to the Disability Determination Services (DDS). DDS plays a crucial role in reviewing your case, primarily focusing on your medical records and assessing whether your medical condition has undergone any significant changes since you were initially approved for benefits.

If DDS finds that your medical condition has indeed changed, they will then proceed to determine whether you still meet the requirements for SSI benefits. This meticulous evaluation ensures that individuals requiring SSI benefits receive the necessary support.

When Your Benefits are Suspended: Understanding the Suspension Period

In some cases, SSI benefits are suspended, not ended. In most cases, SSI recipients have 12 months from the date of suspension to have benefits reinstated without applying again. There is a different procedure for reinstating benefits after the 12 months of suspension.

But in other cases, recipients have 24 months to have their SSI benefits reinstated. These cases include situations where recipients are:

Blind and disabled children of overseas military personnel.
“Military-related” recipients who have become ineligible due to their spouse or parent(s) being called to active military duty (including the reserve or National Guard).

Procedure For Reinstating Benefits Before The Suspension Period

For example, a recipient is incarcerated for a whole calendar month. Upon being released in less than 12 months, they can reinstate their benefits by bringing their official release papers to their local Social Security office.

Procedure For Reinstating Benefits After The Suspension Period

Reinstating SSI benefits after a suspension involves several procedures, depending on the specific circumstances. Here are three different procedures for reinstating benefits after a suspension:

Appeal of a Suspension During the Administrative Period or Civil Suit: If a recipient receives a notice in December 2020 indicating that their benefits have been retroactively suspended starting in January 2020, they have a 60-day window to appeal this decision and provide evidence demonstrating their ongoing need for SSI benefits during that time. If their appeal is successful, their benefits will be reinstated, and they will receive support starting from January 2021.
Standard Suspension with Favorable Appeal Decision: After a 12-month suspension period, recipients can file for the reinstatement of their benefits. If their appeal results in a favorable decision, whether from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or even the federal court, their SSI benefits will be reinstated.
Administrative Finality or Reopening: In cases where a reconsideration request for the reinstatement of benefits is denied, the recipient still has an option. They can request a review from an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) within the prescribed time limits. If the ALJ reverses the initial reconsideration determination, SSI benefits can be reinstated.

Knowing these different procedures for reinstating SSI benefits after a suspension is essential for individuals who may find themselves in such circumstances. Each procedure has specific requirements and timeframes, making it important to navigate this process with the appropriate steps in mind.

Working with an SSI Lawyer for a Smooth Process

With the complexities of reinstating your SSI benefits, An experienced lawyer can skillfully navigate the complex reinstatement process, ensuring that your case is handled with the utmost care and expertise. When you choose to work with Marken Law Group, you benefit from aggressive representation and a personal response to your inquiries and calls, which can make all the difference during this critical time.

We encourage you to take the first step towards a smoother process by contacting us for a free consultation. Discover how working with Marken Law Group can be the key to a successful SSI benefit reinstatement by clicking the link below.

Marken Law Group | Reinstate SSI Benefits

24, Apr 2024

How Much Do Dental Implants Cost?

Besides the discomfort and inconvenience of dental procedures, the next thing people think of is, “How much does it cost?” For dental implants, that question can cause hesitation in having the procedure, even when implant dentures are an absolute medical necessity.

To help ease your concerns or to satisfy your curiosity if considering dental implants, read below and learn how much dental implants cost, and why.

The Average Cost of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants can vary, depending on how many teeth are being implanted, among other factors. For a single-tooth dental implant, the cost is around $5,000, but that is only for the implant and placement surgery; other contributing aspects can raise the cost significantly.

For full-mouth dental implants, the cost can be between $43,000 and $56,000, for the implants and surgery without any other factors included. Dental Insurance providers may cover a portion of the cost, helping with out-of-pocket expenses, but some insurance companies may consider it a cosmetic treatment and forgo coverage.

If considering or need dental implants, the first thing to do is look over your insurance plan or call your insurance provider to discuss implant treatment.

Factors That Impact Dental Implants Cost

As mentioned above, the base Costs for dental implants don’t include other factors that increase the price tag. While some may appear as a necessity, others are personal choices that depend on your lifestyle and insurance coverage:

Types of Dental Implants

The two typical and most common types of dental implants are endosteal and subperiosteal, the difference being how they’re attached to the jawbone. Endosteal implants are shaped like a small screw and are inserted into the jawbone, holding one or more replacement teeth. These are typically preferred when a patient has dentures or bridges already.

The other is the subperiosteal implant, which is placed on or above the jawbone with a metal post placed under the gum and holding the implant in place through it.

Implant Location

Where the dental implants are needed can affect the cost since the location affects how complex the procedure is. For example, implants in the front of the mouth are more visible, requiring more aesthetic considerations than those in the back.

Implant Material

There are two main options for dental implants to consider:

Titanium Dental Implants: These implants have a low failure rate due to their biocompatibility, meaning the body won’t recognize the material as a foreign invader. Titanium is also highly resistant to corrosion and has low thermal conductivity, meaning hot or cold foods won’t irritate the implant or area around it.
Zirconia Dental Implants: Like titanium, zirconia is biocompatible and metal-free for patients who have metal allergies or an autoimmune disorder. While it isn’t as strong as titanium, they are less susceptible to plaque buildup and blend well with natural tooth color.

Pre-Implant Treatments

Sometimes, additional procedures are necessary before or during the implant placement process to ensure a successful outcome. These procedures, such as bone grafting or gum disease treatment, can add to the overall cost of treatment.

Implant Insurance Coverage

Dental insurance coverage varies widely, and not all plans cover dental implants; as mentioned earlier, some even consider it purely cosmetic and won’t cover it. Those that do may only cover a portion of the cost, leaving the patient responsible for the rest of the costs. Always check with your insurance provider before scheduling dental implant treatment.

Benefits of Dental Implants: Is It Worth the Price?

This largely depends on what you and your dentist think about the total cost vs. dental Benefits. When wondering, how much do dental implants cost, compare them to the inconveniences of traditional dentures or the price to your overall oral health not to have them. Some dentists will work with their patients with financing or paying overtime to help ease the burden, but it’s important to have that conversation openly with your dentist.

We at Bellevue aim to help all our patients improve their smiles and work with them to ensure that the price doesn’t bar them from the smile they deserve. If you’re searching for a dentist in Bellevue to help restore your smile with dental implants, look no further than the team at Bellevue Dentist.

Dr. Siamak Najafi is an accomplished dentist who has trained with the world’s leading dental pioneers. These days he teaches dentists from all over the world how to enhance the health and appearance of their patients’ smiles through state-of-the-art dentistry Services.

Dr. Don Jayne is a nationally recognized leader in dentistry. He focuses on providing unparalleled expertise in cosmetic, general, implant, and sedation dentistry. He is dedicated to providing you with the most advanced techniques and effective technology available in dental care.

Bellevue Dentist | Dental Implants

Author: Nancy Dubois