Medicare Premiums to Rise in 2013
The premium for Medicare Part B, which is the voluntary Medical insurance covering medically necessary doctors' services, preventive care, durable medical equipment, laboratory tests, x-rays, limited home health and ambulance services will rise by $5 in 2013. This increase will offset the Social Security cost of living increase for 2013 of 1.7%, or an average of $19 per month.
The new Part B cost for the majority of beneficiaries will be $104.90, up from the current $99.90 per month. However, those "high income" beneficiaries, whose income is more than $85,000 for an individual or $170,000 for couples will see an increase of $42 to $230.80 per month. Most beneficiaries will not realize the change because they pay directly from their Social Security check.
In addition, Medicare's hospitalization deductible will increase by $28, to $1,184. The deductible is the amount a person must pay before health insurance kicks in. It is recommended that seniors have supplemental coverage to offset their Medicare hospital deductible.
This article is provided for informational purposes only. Nothing in this article shall be construed as legal advice or should be relied upon as such. Michael LaMagna is a partner at The Law Office of Michael LaMagna, LLC, practicing health care regulatory, elder /probate/disability/trusts and estates, social security and general legal practice in both New York and Connecticut. Email him at Mlamagna@nyandctlaw.com, call him at 914-534-1048 or visit www.nyandctlaw.com for more information.