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Part of MAGI determines the amount for Medicare IRMAA.

How could Social Security income contributing to MAGI affect CMS?

Likely What happens if… A possibility worth considering, not a forecast.

CMS must update its rules to incorporate Social Security income into Medicare IRMAA. CMS must update its administrative processes because Social Security income is now included in the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) calculation. This MAGI figure is used by Medicare to set IRMAA surcharges. For instance, a couple with Social Security, a pension, and dividends could reach an estimated MAGI of $190,000 before a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD). Adding the RMD could push their joint MAGI to $235,283, which is over the $218,000 threshold for avoiding surcharges.

Reported by 1 independent outlet Written Sunday
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How it reaches CMS

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The facts so far

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  • Social Security income contributes to MAGI, affecting Medicare IRMAA calculations.aol.com
  • Medicare sets IRMAA surcharges from modified adjusted gross income (MAGI).aol.com
  • The joint threshold for avoiding IRMAA was $218,000 in 2026.aol.com
  • A couple's joint MAGI could reach $235,283, which is $17,283 over the threshold.aol.com

Why it matters

For CMS, this change represents an immediate administrative and technical burden. The agency must update its complex calculation models to accurately incorporate Social Security income into the MAGI determination for IRMAA. This ensures that Medicare continues to apply surcharges correctly based on the new rules.

For beneficiaries, the change means that Social Security income is now a direct factor in determining their Medicare premium costs. Since IRMAA acts as a cliff, even a small increase in MAGI due to SS income can push a household over a threshold, triggering significant annual surcharges.

What we don't know yet

  • What specific changes are being made to the CMS calculation software to accommodate this new rule?
  • How will the implementation of this change affect the timeline for Medicare premium notices?

Is this still moving?

No new developments lately Reached 2 outlets in its first 24 hours
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What would change this answer

CMS releases updated guidance on the MAGI calculationThis would confirm the exact operational changes required and the timeline for implementation.
Congress passes legislation altering the IRMAA thresholdsThe impact of the SS income change would be modified by new financial brackets.

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  • About Single Filers

    Since the explainer discusses joint MAGI thresholds, what are the specific MAGI thresholds for single filers to avoid IRMAA surcharges?

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The full eventSocial Security Income Now Counts Toward Medicare Premium Calculations Everything aboutCMS

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