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2024 IRMAA Brackets: Amounts and How to Forecast for Retirement2024 IRMAA Brackets: Amounts and How to Forecast for Retirement

May 23, 2024 | Ralph Westlund | 0 Comment | 12:00 am

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.

With both Medicare and Social Security projected by the government to be insolvent (unable to pay) in less than 8 years the easiest way to save these programs is to make sure more people are in IRMAA.

How do you reach an IRMAA bracket:

IRMAA is all about your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI).

The more of it you have the higher the chances that you have to reaching IRMAA while having less of an MAGI reduces the chance of you reaching IRMAA.

What counts towards your MAGI:

According to Social Security your MAGI is the total of your adjusted gross income (AGI) and any tax-exempt interest you may have.

Both of these can be found on lines 2a and 11 of your 2022 IRS tax form 1040.

Some examples of where your MAGI will come from are:

Taxable Social Security benefits	Traditional 401(k) Withdrawals
Wages	Traditional IRA Withdrawals
Pension & Rental Income	Traditional 403(b) Withdrawals
Capital Gains	Qualified Annuities
Dividends	Interest

If you want to avoid IRMAA all together then the goal is to generate an income from financial instruments that do not count towards your MAGI and they are:

Roth Account Withdrawals

Life Insurance Loans

Non-Qualified Annuities*

Health Saving Account Withdrawals

401(h) Plans

Home Loans or Reverse Mortgages

*Non-Qualified Annuities – depending on certain factors a certain portion of all income you will receive from them can be completely tax free. Please see an IRMAA Certified Professional for more information on which Annuity is best for you.

For a complete list of what does and does not count towards IRMAA please click here.

How to File an Appeal

If you feel you shouldn’t be subject to IRMAA, you can file an appeal. What you do comes down to how you want to appeal.

For Medicare enrollees with a qualifying life changing event:

All that needs to be done is for you to fill out the SSA-44 form by competing the first 3 pages and then submit it with your corresponding proof of your life changing event to your local SSA office.

You can find your local SSA office here.

Once the paperwork is submitted all correspondence about your appeal will be mailed to you from the SSA. If the result is not satisfactory you can request a hearing which can also be done through your local SSA office.

For Medicare enrollees without a qualifying life changing event but who want to appeal based on an updated tax-return or income discrepancy:

Appealing IRMAA is even simpler than have a qualifying life changing event as all that is needed to be done is for you to request an appeal at your local SSA office.

Explain to the local Field Representative that you have a received an IRMAA notification and that you like to appeal based on updated tax information.

A case number will be assigned to you as well as Field Agent, which could be the person at your local office, so always be nice and any correspondence about your case ill be mailed to you by the SSA.

If the IRMAA result is not satisfactory you can always request a hearing at your local SSA office too.

At the point of request your local agent will be able to submit your appeal and a case number at that moment should be assigned to you. As your case is evolving you will have to provide documentation that disproves the information that the IRS has provided which can be a corrected or amended tax-return or even a more update one

Conclusion:

The 2024 IRMAA Brackets are, by law, going to increase, but the odds of you or someone you know reaching IRMAA at some point are also increasing.

The Power of Strategic Partnerships: Leveraging Synergies for Business GrowthThe Power of Strategic Partnerships: Leveraging Synergies for Business Growth

November 9, 2023 | Lillian | 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Like the popular saying goes, no man is an island. In order for you to make the best out of your business, you must form strategic alliance, otherwise known as partnership in the business World. Partnership involves collaborating with organizations whose objectives align with yours. These collaborations are ways of opening up new opportunities for your business and reaching out to a larger audience.

A careful examination of successful business men and women, you will notice how highly they consider partnerships. Scarcely would you encounter a successful business person who has no partnership with another successful person. Take Grant Kelley, for example, he is a seasoned and successful leader in private equity, business strategy, real estate investing, and sports management. He is a visionary and creative leader renowned for his relentless commitment to success. He is the Chairman of Holdfast Assets, a role he has held since September of 2008. In this article, we would take insights from him and other successful business person, and see the framework behind their maximization of strategic partnerships.

What are strategic partnerships

Strategic partnerships are relationships formed between Businesses which is targeted at being mutualistic and driving both parties towards a common goal. These partnerships can be in various forms, including, joint ventures, sharing technology, or carrying out co-marketing initiatives. Regardless of the form of partnership, it is important that the partnership is built on trust, and complementary strengths. By combining resources, your business can drive innovation and enhance your product/service offering.

Here are a few ways to implement strategic partnerships;

Identify Opportunities for Partnership

The first thing to do before looking for partnership is to access the strengths and weaknesses of your business. Your goal in any partnership should be to partner with those whose capabilities complement yours. For example, if you are a technology start up, you should partner with a company with a large customer base, to increase your audience reach.

State clear cut objectives

A partnership just like every relationship strives on trust and well stated objectives. From the onset, you and your partner must come to terms with what is expected in the partnership. Expectations might be to break into a new market, develop innovative solution etc. By setting these goals, you can both work in harmony for maximum efficiency. This sets the foundation for a fruitful and mutualistic partnership.

Leverage Resources and Expertise

This should be the driving force behind your partnership. Seek out organizations with resources and expertise that are lacking in your organization. By pooling resources such as technology and funds together, you can reach greater heights in your business and unlock levels that would have been otherwise impossible on your own. Leveraging expertise from partnership allows for shared learning, and enables you to offer improvised solutions to your customers.

Conclusion

Without strategic partnerships, Grant Kelley would not have been able to maintain his role as chairman since 2008. Instead, he has driven his organization to greater heights, something that has become more of a norm for him. If you wish to navigate the complexities associated with today’s market, then just like him, you need to embrace the power of strategic partnerships.

For more information: Grant Kelley

Evolution of Digital Twin Technology: A Brief HistoryEvolution of Digital Twin Technology: A Brief History

October 14, 2023 | Lillian | 0 Comment | 12:00 am

Within the annals of technological advancement, the history of digital twin technology holds a special place. This narrative began during the era of mankind’s first steps into the cosmos. Notably, during the Apollo 13 mission, an unforeseen calamity occurred when a critical oxygen tank failed. Faced with this daunting challenge and the vast expanse of space separating them from the troubled spacecraft, the NASA team on Earth employed mathematical models and simulations to remotely diagnose and resolve the issue. This ingenious approach not only salvaged the mission but laid the foundation for what would later mature into Digital Twin Technology. This methodology encapsulates the use of digital replicas and data to understand, analyze, and optimize real-World entities or systems.

As years rolled into decades, there was an explosive growth in computation capabilities coupled with advancements in digital data capturing technologies acting as catalysts further nurturing this embryonic concept. It wasn’t until we stepped into 2002 that Dr Michael Grieves stamped it with its official moniker “Digital Twin” while teaching at University of Michigan. He brought forth this innovative methodology linking tangibles with intangibles – blurring lines between physicality and virtuality which has become increasingly practical, invaluable, bordering on revolutionary across diverse sectors. From interstellar crafts to intricate supply chains; prosthetic limbs to extensive power grids; deployment of Digital Twin Technology has surged exponentially – showcasing the raw might of the ongoing digital revolution.

Early Implementations and Applications of Digital Twins

In the annals of history, one may stumble upon a peculiar origin story for Digital Twin technology. Its roots sprawl out to the intrepid space explorations of NASA’s Apollo missions. Enveloped in predicaments that were dictated by remote locations and time-sensitive situations, NASA was compelled to pour considerable resources into devising physical twin systems for their spacecraft.

These twins, though crude and bereft of any digital attributes, can be deemed as the embryonic form of today’s sophisticated concept. They served as invaluable tools permitting exhaustive data examination, system diagnostics while also aiding in crafting contingency Plans for their distantly situated spacecrafts.

Now if we leap forward through several decades – an era marked by exponential growth in computational prowess and omnipresent Internet connectivity – we find Digital Twin technology donning a more familiar guise. Within domains such as manufacturing and logistics, virtual analogues began springing up as mirror images depicting every facet from tangible assets to processes; personnel to locales; systems down to individual devices functioning within these operations.

This technological marvel bestowed engineers with an unprecedented power – they could now oversee, scrutinize and forecast real-time conditions pertaining to their physical systems. As analysis of aggregated data turned increasingly efficient yet potent over time; it made waves having far-reaching effects on aspects like throughput, system downtime ultimately culminating into remarkable operational efficiency improvements.

What are the most attractive private drive designs?What are the most attractive private drive designs?

August 28, 2023 | Lillian | 0 Comment | 12:00 am

There are plenty of possibilities available to you when it comes to private drives. A driveway can add considerable value to your house and make it a better place to settle down. Some choices will set you back more than others, but there is a lot of choice available whether you’re on a tight budget or have more to invest. Talk to us for more -

Tarmacadam private drives

Tarmac or asphalt driveways are also very inexpensive and are recognized for their tough climate level of resistance. Driveways made from tarmac are also very long lasting, which makes them a great match for larger vehicles. They also have a smooth coating, which means exceptional skid resistance. Tarmac driveways can easily survive hail, ice and storms. tarmacadam is also a perfect match for the eco-conscious due to the way that the material can be used indefinitely. For a great solution visit -

Block paving driveways

Block paving is based around interlocking, which gives you more strength. It can be designed in a range of designs and you can simply replace individual bricks if they are damaged. An additional key benefit of block paving private drives is that they have great fade resistance. A block paving driveway can last for up to 20 years. These driveways do not require top polishing, and there is typically no need to repaint them even years down the line. All you usually need to do to maintain a block paving driveway is to clean it with soap and water. Block paving driveways are also popular due to the way that they can withstand extreme weather with ease.

Resin-bound plus resin-bonded driveways

Resin-bound and resin-bonded private drives have become significantly popular over recent years. Resin-bound driveways are water-permeable. Whilst resin-bonded systems have resin spread across the surface with loose stone scattered on top of them, resin and stone are mixed together and shovelled into place to develop resin-bound systems. These systems give you a great deal of choice when it comes to versatility and colour.

Indian stone driveways

Indian natural stone driveways offer the look of natural sandstone, and there are plenty of styles and shades to choose from. One of the key Benefits of Indian Sandstone is that it doesn’t normally split, crack or peel. This stone also has non-slip qualities.

Natural stone private drives

Natural stone private drives are quick and straightforward to put in and may be the perfect choice if you’re on a budget plan. A significant advantage of having a stone driveway installed is that you’ll be alerted when somebody pulls up on your drive or walks across it. This means it can be a terrific discouraging factor for trespassers. These private drives also need little maintenance.

Cobblestone and brick private drives

Although they’re not as well-liked as they once were, Cobble Stone and brick driveways offer a highly distinctive, attractive appeal. These driveways offer good resistance to cold and are uncomplicated to maintain. They are also noted for their resilience and can be customised to your specific demands and preferences.

Pattern-imprinted cement driveways.

Pattern-imprinted cement driveways are also known as stamped concrete and decorative concrete driveways. These private drives offer a highly resilient surface and can easily hold up against heavy weights. Another reason why these driveways are so popular is that they require minimal upkeep. There are many designs, styles, colours and patterns to choose from.
No matter what your tastes and inclinations are, it shouldn’t be too hard to find a private drive style that meets your demands.

If you have any queries visit - for a free quote.

Osaki Massage Chairs: Spotlight on the Osaki Hiro LT 3DOsaki Massage Chairs: Spotlight on the Osaki Hiro LT 3D

August 20, 2023 | Lillian | 0 Comment | 12:00 am

In the World of luxury relaxation, the massage chair industry has seen a revolutionary change in recent years. The pursuit of the perfect relaxation technique has brought several brands to the limelight, with Osaki standing tall among them. Known for its precision, innovation, and dedication to user comfort, Osaki has become synonymous with luxury and relaxation. In this article, we dive deep into one of Osaki’s gems: The Osaki Hiro LT 3D Massage Chair.

The Osaki Lineup: A Quick Glance

Before plunging into Hiro LT’s features, it’s essential to understand Osaki’s range and variety. The brand, rooted in technological advancement, offers several outstanding products:

OS-Pro Honor: This chair boasts of its 3D massage technology, combined with the finesse of Japanese engineering.
OS-Atai: A luxurious escape, the Atai offers exceptional features like a dedicated remote control and the much sought-after zero gravity reclining.
OS-Champ: A fusion of modern design with functionality, the OS-Champ doesn’t break the bank but offers a range of settings and massage capabilities.

Deep Dive: Osaki Hiro LT 3D Massage Chair

When it comes to blending technological prowess with user comfort, the Hiro LT stands out.

3D Massage technology: Traditional 2D massage rollers move up and down and side to side. The 3D technology takes this a step further, allowing rollers to move in and out, simulating the feel of real hands pressing into your back.
Japanese Innovation: Hiro LT is a testament to Japanese precision engineering. This chair embodies efficiency, comfort, and an unmatched massage experience.
Quietness: In a world that’s constantly buzzing, a quiet massage session can feel like a sanctuary. The Hiro LT ensures peace, making it one of the quietest massage chairs in the market.
Color and Design: While performance is paramount, aesthetics aren’t overlooked. The Hiro LT, available in a plush brown shade, is both functional and stylish.
Release Date and Popularity: Since its launch in September 2019, the Hiro LT has garnered a reputation as a top-tier product in the Osaki lineup, blending luxury with state-of-the-art features.

User Experience and Reviews

While specific user reviews would require a deeper dive, anecdotal evidence suggests that the Hiro LT offers a comfortable, relaxing experience, with some users praising its intuitive controls and effective chair massage techniques. However, like all products, user preferences play a crucial role, and what suits one might not suit another.

Conclusion

The Osaki OS-3D Hiro LT massage chair is a testament to how technology when harmoniously blended with user-centric design, can create an unparalleled relaxation experience. While the chair is the epitome of luxury, potential buyers should always align their personal preferences and needs with the product’s features.

Looking to explore more? Check out the massage chair store and find your perfect relaxation partner today.