Why Your Medicare Premium Went Up (IRMAA Explained 2026)

Did your Medicare premium suddenly increase?You may be affected by IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount)—a Medicare surcharge based on your income from two years ago.In this episode, local Medicare expert Amanda from I'm With Amanda breaks down:What IRMAA is and why it impacts your Medicare costs2026 income thresholds and premium increasesHow IRMAA is calculated using your tax returnHow to file an appeal using the SSA-44 formCommon mistakes (like Roth conversions) that can trigger higher premiumsStrategies to reduce or avoid IRMAAIf you live in Central New York and have questions about Medicare costs, premiums, or IRMAA, this video will help you understand your options and avoid overpaying.🌐 Learn more: https://imwithamanda.com/https://imwithamanda.com/00:00 – Intro: What Is IRMAA & Why You Got That Letter00:26 – Why Medicare Premiums Can Increase00:55 – What IRMAA Actually Means (Simple Explanation)01:25 – How IRMAA Is Calculated Each Year01:53 – When You’ll Get an IRMAA Letter02:04 – Why IRMAA Is Based on Income From 2 Years Ago02:30 – 2026 IRMAA Income Brackets Explained03:05 – Married vs Single Income Thresholds03:29 – How Much IRMAA Can Increase Your Premium03:50 – Real Example: $450K Income Breakdown04:13 – Single Filers: Key IRMAA Thresholds04:45 – Life Changes That Can Reduce IRMAA05:26 – What Is the SSA-44 Form (How to Appeal IRMAA)05:49 – Qualifying Life Events That Lower IRMAA06:33 – Documents You Need for an IRMAA Appeal07:24 – Important Warning: Be Accurate With Income08:01 – What Does NOT Qualify for IRMAA Reduction08:27 – Roth Conversions & IRMAA (Big Mistake to Avoid)09:06 – How to Plan Ahead to Avoid IRMAA09:35 – Final Takeaways: Lowering Your Medicare Costs10:11 – How to Get Help With IRMAA Questions#Medicare #IRMAA #MedicareCosts #MedicareTips #RetirementPlanning #MedicarePremiums #SocialSecurity #FinancialPlanning #MedicareEducation #AEP2026 #InsuranceTipsSupport the show