Do you know what you earned 2 years ago? Why it's important for Medicare enrollment

Core Insights - Medicare enrollment for 2026 opens on October 15, with 2024 income determining potential surcharges for beneficiaries [1] - Medicare premiums are projected to rise significantly, impacting Social Security cost-of-living adjustments for older Americans [2] - The number of Medicare enrollees paying the IRMAA surcharge has increased from 1.7 million in 2007 to 5.1 million currently, with projections of 8.6 million by 2034 [2] Medicare Premiums and Surcharges - The expected standard monthly Medicare premium for 2026 is $206.50, with high earners facing additional IRMAA charges based on income brackets [4] - Specific IRMAA amounts for various income levels include: - $82.60 for individuals earning $109,001 to $137,000 [4] - $206.50 for individuals earning $137,001 to $171,000 [4] - $334.40 for individuals earning $171,001 to $205,000 [4] - $454.30 for individuals earning $205,001 to $500,000 [4] - $495.60 for individuals earning over $500,001 [4] - Nearly 4.5 million Americans currently pay the Part D drug plan surcharge, with forecasts indicating an increase to 7.7 million by 2034 [3] Planning and Awareness - Seniors often overlook the implications of IRMAA, which is based on a two-year income lookback, leading to unexpected premium increases [5] - Financial planning is essential for individuals to manage potential Medicare surcharges effectively [5]