WASHINGTON, D.C. – If you’re on Medicare and file taxes separately from your spouse, your premiums could be significantly higher in 2025. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released the new IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) brackets, and individuals earning more will be required to pay steeper monthly costs for Medicare Part B and Part D.
What Is IRMAA and Who Does It Affect?
The Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA) is an additional charge added to Medicare Part B and Part D premiums for higher-income earners. The Social Security Administration (SSA) determines your IRMAA based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) from two years prior—meaning your 2025 premiums are based on your 2023 tax return.
2025 Medicare IRMAA Brackets for Married Couples Filing Separately
📌 If your MAGI is $106,000 or less → You’ll pay the standard Medicare Part B premium of $185 per month
📌 If your MAGI is between $106,000 and $394,000 → Your total Part B premium jumps to $591.90 per month (including an IRMAA surcharge of $406.90)
📌 If your MAGI is above $394,000 → You’ll pay a whopping $628.90 per month for Medicare Part B (including an IRMAA surcharge of $443.90)
For Medicare Part D, the IRMAA surcharge is also applied:
✔ MAGI between $106,000 and $394,000 → $78.60 added to your Part D plan’s premium
✔ MAGI above $394,000 → $85.80 added to your Part D plan’s premium
Why These Brackets Matter
If your income exceeds $106,000, you’ll pay more for Medicare in 2025 than the standard premium. These increases can have a major impact on retirees who didn’t anticipate these extra costs, especially those filing as “married, filing separately”.
Can You Avoid IRMAA Surcharges?
Yes! If your income has dropped significantly due to retirement, job loss, divorce, or a major life event, you can appeal the IRMAA surcharge. You’ll need to:
1️⃣ File Form SSA-44 with the Social Security Administration
2️⃣ Provide documentation proving your income has changed since 2023
3️⃣ Request a reconsideration to potentially lower your 2025 Medicare premiums
What Should You Do Now?
✅ Check your 2023 tax return to see if your income falls within an IRMAA bracket
✅ Plan for higher Medicare costs if your MAGI is over $106,000
✅ Consider tax strategies to lower your reportable income for future years
✅ Appeal if your income has significantly dropped
Final Thoughts
For those filing taxes separately from their spouse, Medicare costs in 2025 could be much higher than expected. Planning ahead and knowing where you fall in the IRMAA brackets can help you avoid surprises and manage your healthcare costs effectively.
For more information, visit Medicare.gov or consult with a financial advisor to explore ways to reduce your taxable income and lower your Medicare premiums.
