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27, Apr 2024
Navigating the OASDI Limit 2023:

Ever wondered why some numbers in finance seem to shift every year? The OASDI limit for 2023 is one such figure that’s crucial yet often misunderstood. For those scratching their heads, OASDI stands for Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance – essentially Social Security. This year brings a fresh twist you’ll definitely want to get cozy with.

The OASDI limit marks the ceiling of your earnings taxed for Social Security purposes. Understanding this number is more than just ticking a box for the sake of it; it’s about smartly mapping out your financial journey ahead. In the same way you manage your credit cards to optimize credit health, understanding the OASDI limit helps optimize your financial health.

Understanding the Social Security Tax Limit 2023

The limit on Social Security tax isn’t something to shrug off. It’s the maximum amount of your earnings that are subject to the Social Security tax each year.

That limit is $160, 200. A nice chunk of change, right?

What Is the Social Security Tax Limit?

Let’s break it down. If your earnings hit that $160, 200 cap, you’ll pay a maximum of $9, 932.40 in Social Security taxes for the year. Your employer will kick in the same amount, for a total of $19, 864.80 paid into the system on your behalf.

But if you’re self-employed, you’re on the hook for the whole enchilada – 12.4% of your earnings up to that $160, 200 limit. The silver lining? You get to deduct half of that amount on your tax return. Every cloud, my friend. This is akin to how wisely managing your credit can lead to significant savings over time.

Now, let’s say you’re an overachiever and earn more than $160, 200. Congrats. But here’s the thing: you don’t pay Social Security taxes on anything over that amount. It’s like hitting the jackpot, tax-wise.

How the Increase Affects Payroll Taxes

So, how does this compare to last year? In 2022, the Social Security tax limit was $147, 000. That means the limit jumped by $13, 200 for 2023. Not too shabby.

But wait, there’s more. If you’re a high earner, you could pay up to $818 more in Social Security taxes this year compared to 2022. It’s all thanks to that increase in the wage base limit.

So, what does this mean for your paycheck? If you earn $160, 200 or more, you’ll see 6.2% taken out for Social Security taxes until you hit that magic number. Then, poof. No more Social Security tax withholdings for the rest of the year. It’s like a little bonus, right? Much like how responsibly using credit cards for monthly expenses can help manage cash flow effectively.

Changes in Social Security Benefits in 2023

Now, let’s talk about the fun part: Social Security benefits. Benefits are getting a boost.

Thanks to a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), benefits will increase by 8.7%. That’s the biggest jump since 1981. It’s like giving your monthly check a caffeine boost.

Retirement Earnings Test Thresholds for 2023

But wait, there’s a catch. If you’re under your full retirement age and still working, the retirement earnings test comes into play. This quiz is all about figuring out if earning a bit more cash will mean your benefits take a hit.

The earnings limit is $21, 240 per year or $1, 770 per month for those under full retirement age. If you hit that limit, your benefits will be reduced by $1 for every $2 you earn over the threshold. Ouch.

But once you reach full retirement age, the earnings test disappears like magic. Poof. You can earn as much as you want without any reduction in benefits. It’s like hitting the retirement jackpot. Similar to how managing credit effectively can increase your purchasing power over time.

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

24, Jun 2023
How Many Miles to Tampa Florida?

Tampa is an eclectic Florida city known for its beaches,theme parks,shopping and dining. Additionally,professional football can be found here as well as an active Ybor City historic neighborhood that boasts housing costs lower than the national average.

https://www.managed-it-tampa.com/how-far-is-tampa-bay-from-tampa

Tampa International Airport,situated within Hillsborough County which includes Tampa itself,provides easy access to Orlando.

Orlando

The distance to Orlando from Chicago is 85 miles; however,you should plan for additional stops along the way and explore new places and restaurants along your travels.

Tampa is an attractive tourist destination on Florida’s western coast,boasting plenty of sights and activities for all. From sandy beaches to family fun at Busch Gardens,this vibrant city provides something to keep everyone occupied for days on end.

As the Theme Park Capital of the World,Orlando is best-known for its numerous Disney attractions like Magic Kingdom and Universal Studios. Other popular spots include SeaWorld,Legoland and water parks.

Locating Orlando from Tampa via points or miles is now much easier,thanks to Tampa having its own airport and an expanding light rail system. There are multiple routes for travel; should any queries arise along the way,Trippy is an excellent resource filled with travel knowledge experts that are happy to answer them!

Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is an energetic area filled with exciting activities. From historic Gasparilla season and shopping in Ybor City to its beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and affordable housing costs,there is much to see and do here.

Traveling on day trips from Tampa can be an ideal way to escape the bustle and stress of urban life. There are numerous places you can visit,such as Strong Tower Vineyard and Winery (a family-run operation that will show you how grapes are grown and wines made),Suncoast Primate Sanctuary with chimpanzees,orangutans,and monkeys or The Florida Aquarium where dolphins,whales,sharks and marine life reside – and much more!

Central Florida city Orlando is an extremely popular tourist and local travel destination,boasting hotels,restaurants and theatres with dinner shows – not to mention 85 miles from Tampa! It has so much to offer visitors of both ilk!

Tampa International Airport

Tampa International Airport (TPA) is situated approximately 6 miles west of the city center and serves as a hub for Silver Airways and Frontier Airlines,while offering dining,shopping and lounge options to its passengers. A complimentary shuttle runs between TPA and downtown while taxis,limousines and rental cars can also be rented at TPA. Furthermore,several TSA checkpoints can be found there with passengers being given the option of using their TSA PreCheck program to expedite security screening process more quickly.

Driving between Tampa and Orlando takes approximately two hours on one tank of gas. The Tampa Bay area features beautiful beaches and Busch Gardens for an idyllic beach vacation experience,not to mention excellent fishing opportunities in its waters. Also worth seeing in Winter Park is Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Garden which should not be missed on your way through.

Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County offers something for the whole family in Brandon,Sun City,Apollo Beach,Town ‘n’ Country and Plant City. Family-friendly attractions can be found here along with award-winning breweries and fantastic dining establishments. Plus it serves as a sports hub where top baseball talent can be seen playing at Tropicana Field and other local venues!

Hillsborough County is administered by the Hillsborough County Commission,an oversight body appointed by Governor Scott to oversee local government and budget matters in Hillsborough. Members appointed by him,state senators/representatives as well as the mayor of Tampa make up this body.

Politically significant Hillsborough County and its voters tend to lean Democratic,serving as a bellwether county in one of America’s pivotal swing states and voting for every presidential election winner since 1964. Hillsborough River State Park provides a peaceful sanctuary that can offer relief from Tampa’s hustle and bustle with seven miles of hiking and biking trails; visitors can view class II river rapids while camping under historic structures for an idyllic landscape experience.