Shari Barnes

"Turning 65 is a significant milestone, not just for making another trip around the sun but also for unlocking Medicare eligibility. As the federal health program for more than 68.5 million Americans, Medicare is a vital component of retirement planning.",You must pay a premium: Compare the costs and benefits of your employer plan versus Medicare to determine which makes the most sense for you.,"You contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA): Once enrolled in any part of Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA.","If your employer has 20 or more employees, you can delay Part B without a penalty and use your employer’s coverage as your primary. Most people enroll in premium-free Part A but skip Part B to circumvent paying the premium.","If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, consider signing up for Medicare Parts A and B, making your employer’s coverage secondary. Failure to enroll on time may result in gaps in coverage and penalties.",Medicare Part D (Prescription) can be delayed without penalty if your employer provides creditable coverage.,"Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) is an all-in-one alternative to original Medicare. Part C offers the benefits of Parts A and B, along with additional services, including prescription, dental, vision, and hearing care. Using Part C with an employer’s plan can lead to overlaps or conflicts of coverage.","Medicare Supplement, also known as Medigap, helps cover deductibles, coinsurance, and other out-of-pocket expenses. However, Medigap only works with Medicare Parts A and B, not your employer’s coverage. In other words, you can’t use Medigap if Medicare isn’t your primary insurance. Learn more about Medicare Supplement Insurance.","The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program helps cover Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.",The Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary program helps pay for Part B premiums. You must have Part A and Part B to qualify for this program.,Qualifying Individual programs help pay for Part B premiums.,The Qualified Disabled and Working Individual program helps pay for Part A premiums only for specific individuals with disabilities.,"The Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) program helps reduce Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays and may eliminate late-enrollment penalties.",Part B Penalty: A 10% increase for every 12 months you delay.,Part D Penalty: A 1% increase for each month you go without creditable drug coverage.,Online at ssa.gov/medicare.,By phone at 1-800-772-1213.,In person at your local Social Security office.,Initial Enrollment Period: Three months before and after your 65th birthday month.,Special Enrollment Period: If you’re coming off employer coverage.,General Enrollment Period: January 1–March 31 each year. Coverage starts July 1. Late penalties may apply if you delay enrollment without creditable coverage.

Traveling solo is no longer a niche trend—it’s a growing movement. Whether you’re single, seeking solitude, or simply craving the freedom to explore on your own terms, solo travel offers flexibility and opportunities for personal growth. But if you’re new to it, it can feel intimidating. These seven tips will help you travel smarter, safer, and more confidently in 2025.

Managing money can be a significant source of stress in life. For some, a simple tweak in their budget can bring clarity and stability. For others, financial challenges may stem from more complex issues, such as changes in financial circumstances, unhealthy spending habits, or emotional barriers. These difficulties can also impact relationships with partners and hinder progress toward achieving financial wellness. Moreover, our cultural background, religious beliefs, and gender identity often shape how we perceive and interact with money.