6 Changes To Social Security Happening in 2026, #292
Retire With Ryan
The landscape of Social Security is changing yet again. As we enter 2026, six big changes will impact both current and future retirees. I break down everything from the new cost of living adjustment (COLA), increases in the earnings test limit, and updated eligibility requirements, all the way to shifts in the full retirement age and the solvency projections for the Social Security Trust Fund. You’ll also hear practical tips on maximizing your Social Security benefits, how to prepare for what’s ahead, and why it’s more important than ever to have a solid retirement plan in place. ...
info_outline
Protecting Your Schwab Accounts From A RAT Attack, #291
Retire With Ryan
Have you ever fallen victim to a RAT attack? No, not the furry kind, a Remote Access Trojan attack. I’m discussing how cybercriminals use social engineering to target victims, and the real-world impact these threats can have on your investment accounts and personal information. I reveal the latest tactics scammers use, and, most importantly, offer practical tips to help you recognize warning signs, safeguard your accounts, and minimize your risk, whether you’re an individual managing your retirement nest egg or a business owner overseeing company assets. You will want to hear...
info_outline
Can I Contribute to My 401(k) and a Traditional IRA in the Same Tax Year?, #290
Retire With Ryan
A listener recently wrote in with a common and important retirement planning question: If I’m already maxing out my 401(k), can I also contribute to a traditional IRA in the same year? The short answer is yes—but whether it makes sense, and how much benefit you receive, depends on your income, tax situation, and long-term goals. In this episode, I break down how traditional IRA contributions work alongside employer-sponsored retirement plans, when those contributions are deductible, and what options are available if your income is too high for a deduction. We also explore alternative...
info_outline
Top 5 Growth ETFs to Own For 2026 and Beyond, #289
Retire With Ryan
Last week, we covered the best investments to preserve your money, but this week we are shifting gears to focus on growth. For retirees, the goal is to have an income that outpaces inflation, and historically, the best way to achieve that is by having 50% to 70% of your portfolio invested in stock funds. In this episode, I break down five specific Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) that can help you grow your wealth in 2026. I discuss why I prefer ETFs over mutual funds, specifically focusing on cost, transparency, and liquidity, and provide the exact ticker symbols and expense ratios for the funds...
info_outline
7 Best Investment Options To Preserve Your Money in 2026, #288
Retire With Ryan
This episode is your introduction to the world of conservative investing, so it’s perfect for you if you’re looking to preserve your principal and grow your money at a steady pace. I’m walking you through seven standout investment choices for 2026, ranging from high-yield online money market accounts to short-term bond funds, CDs, and Treasury bonds. We’ll discuss how to shop around for the best rates, the importance of keeping up with inflation in retirement, and the benefits and limitations of each strategy. There’s something here for anyone who wants their money to work a little...
info_outline
4 Things All Successful Retirees Do, #287
Retire With Ryan
In this episode, I’m helping you kick off 2026 by reflecting on financial habits that pave the way for a successful retirement. As we set our goals for the year ahead, I share the four key traits I’ve observed in successful retirees, drawn from years of experience working with people from all walks of life. You’ll hear practical advice on how to work hard and invest consistently, the importance of living within your means, and ways to avoid common investment pitfalls that can derail your progress. Whether you’re just starting your retirement planning or fine-tuning your financial...
info_outline
6 Stock Market Predictions For 2026, #286
Retire With Ryan
As we turn the calendar to 2026, I reveal my forecasts for the stock market, interest rates, and top asset classes, and take a look back at how my 2025 predictions stacked up against reality. From the S&P 500’s rollercoaster performance to the ongoing rivalry between growth and value stocks, and even a showdown between bitcoin and gold, I break down what the numbers were, where I hit the mark, and where I missed. You’ll also hear my insights on international versus U.S. stocks, the outlook for small caps, and what the Federal Reserve might do with interest rates in the year ahead. Get...
info_outline
Most Asked Financial Questions of 2025, #285
Retire With Ryan
2025 has been a year of significant highs and lows, a bittersweet time marked by personal loss but also tremendous growth in our community of listeners and clients. As we wrap up the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect and, more importantly, to give back by answering the most pressing questions on your minds. In this episode, I’m tackling the top 10 most asked financial questions I received in 2025 from both clients and listeners. From the future solvency of Social Security and the reality of rising inflation to the specifics of Bitcoin and long-term care, we are covering the topics...
info_outline
Top 5 Tax Benefits of 529 Plans, #284
Retire With Ryan
529 college savings plans are a favorite tool for families looking to fund education, but recent updates have made them even more compelling. With the passing of the One Big Beautiful Tax Act in 2025, there have been some exciting changes to what you can use 529 funds for, including expanded coverage for K-12 tuition, test fees, vocational programs, and support for learning differences. I also discuss the various tax advantages of contributing to a 529 plan, like state tax deductions, tax-deferred growth, and even the ability to roll leftover funds into a Roth IRA for your child. He offers...
info_outline
4 Ways To Receive A Tax Deduction For Charitable Contributions in 2025 and 2026, #283
Retire With Ryan
In the season of giving, we’re discussing making charitable contributions in 2025 and 2026. Americans are known for their generous donations to worthy causes, but understanding the best ways to give and maximize your tax benefits is key. This episode covers four effective strategies for making charitable contributions, from utilizing Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your retirement accounts to cash donations, gifting highly appreciated stock or real estate, and using donor-advised funds. I also break down recent and upcoming tax law changes that impact your ability to itemize...
info_outlineHealthcare planning is a huge part of getting ready for your retirement. In this episode, I tackle one of the most pressing updates for retirees: the latest changes to Medicare premiums for 2026, including important surcharges, deductibles, and strategies to help you manage your healthcare expenses.
I’m helping you understand the significant increases in Medicare Part B premiums and deductibles, the impact these changes will have on your Social Security benefits, and why waiting to claim Social Security might pay off. Listen in to get helpful strategies for appealing IRMAA surcharges and practical tips for structuring your income to minimize additional Medicare costs.
If you’re planning for retirement or already navigating Medicare, this episode is packed with timely advice to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare and finances.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
- [00:00] 2026 Medicare vs. Social Security.
- [02:23] Part B Medicare surprise announced.
- [04:08] Social Security timing and medicare basics.
- [10:07] Appealing the Medicare IRMAA surcharge.
- [12:13] Avoid IRMAA by keeping an eye on your retirement income.
- [14:08] Key Medicare changes for 2026.
Medicare Part B Premiums Are Increasing in 2026
The standard monthly premium will jump to $202.90 per individual, a striking 9.7% rise from the 2025 rate of $185. This marks the largest increase since 2022, signaling that healthcare costs for retirees continue to climb at rates surpassing even Social Security’s cost of living adjustment, which will be 2.8% for 2026.
For retirees collecting Social Security, Part B premiums are automatically deducted from their benefits, while those not yet collecting must pay separately, typically on a quarterly basis. It’s possible for individuals with lower Social Security benefits to see the entire annual cost-of-living increase consumed, and even exceeded, by higher Medicare premiums.
Understanding Medicare’s Two Parts: A and B
It’s important to understand Medicare’s original coverage: Part A and Part B.
Part A (Hospital Insurance): Most retirees won’t pay a premium for Part A if they (or a spouse) have worked at least 10 years in the U.S. Those with fewer qualifying quarters face monthly premiums of either $311 or $565, depending on how long they’ve paid in. The Part A deductible will also rise to $1,736 in 2026.
Part B (Medical Insurance): Covers preventive care, with the standard premium set at $202.90 and a deductible of $283 for 2026 (about a 10% increase from 2025).
IRMAA: Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amounts & Surcharges
Higher-income retirees may be subject to IRMAA, leading to additional surcharges on Part B premiums. This is determined by your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) from two years prior (2024 for the 2026 premiums).
The IRMAA threshold for single filers is $109,000 and $218,000 for joint filers, with surcharges starting at $284.10 per person and escalating through higher brackets, potentially doubling your premium if you cross certain income thresholds.
Medicare will send IRMAA notifications, but an appeal process is available. If your income drops due to retirement or other qualifying life events, you can use SSA Form 44 to appeal unwanted surcharges. Reasons might include a work stoppage, divorce, loss of a pension, or the death of a spouse.
Strategic Planning for Retirees
How can retirees manage these costs and avoid sudden surcharge surprises? Ryan Morrissey provides practical guidance:
- Delay Social Security: Waiting until full retirement age or later can mean higher monthly benefits and greater long-term cost-of-living increases.
- Monitor Your Income: Large IRA withdrawals, significant capital gains, or property sales can raise your MAGI and push you into higher IRMAA brackets.
- Appeal When Justified: Act quickly if you’re eligible for an IRMAA appeal, as processing can take time and surcharges last 12 months before adjusting.
- Retirees should work closely with financial advisors to manage income distributions and plan for healthcare expenses as part of their broader retirement strategy.
With healthcare costs rising faster than Social Security increases, retirees must stay vigilant. Whether you’re newly eligible for Medicare or well into your retirement journey, understanding these changes is super important.
Resources Mentioned
- Retirement Readiness Review
- Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel
- Download my entire book for FREE
- Medicare.gov
Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management
www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact