Medicare Open Enrollment Starts Now: What You Need to Know for 2026

Learn what’s changing with Medicare Open Enrollment for 2025–2026, including plan updates, premium shifts, and new drug pricing rules. Learn how to review your coverage, avoid hidden costs, and choose a plan that fits your healthcare needs.

In today’s update, Medicare Open Enrollment is here, and millions of Americans can review or change their plans before December 7. This guide explains how to compare your Medicare Advantage and Part D plans, understand new 2026 changes, and avoid costly mistakes. You’ll learn about updates to premiums, deductibles, drug price negotiations, and telehealth access, as well as tips for preventing scams and delays. Find out why fewer plans could mean higher quality, how to use Medicare’s Plan Finder tool, and what to do if your current plan ends. This overview helps you make smart, confident choices to protect your healthcare coverage, manage your budget, and stay informed about the latest Medicare policies for 2026.

Medicare Open Enrollment Starts Now: What You Need to Know for 2026

🆓Help finding a Medicare plan is ALWAYS FREE! Call 615-639-1937 for our Medicare partner, Chapter Medicare or click here

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

If you need help with Medicare, please contact Medicare, your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), your current Medicare insurance agent/broker/plan, or feel free to contact my Medicare partner, Chapter, at 615-639-1937. Chapter: Memoir, Inc. d/b/a Chapter is a privately-owned, data and technology-enabled advisory that helps older Americans navigate retirement. Insurance agency services are provided by Chapter Advisory, LLC, a licensed health insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of Memoir, Inc. In California, Chapter Advisory, LLC does business as Chapter Insurance Services (Lic. No. 6003691).
Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations and stand alone prescription drug plans that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan’s contract renewal. While we have a database of every Medicare plan nationwide and can help you to search among all plans, we have contracts with many but not all plans. As a result, we do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 50 organizations which offer 18,160 products nationwide. We search and recommend all plans, even those we don’t directly offer. You can contact a licensed Chapter agent to find out the number of products available in your specific area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Categories Health, Health Insurance, Insurance, Investing and Financial Planning, Retirement
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BREAKING: Social Security Increase Date Finally Confirmed!

Learn why the 2026 Social Security COLA announcement was delayed and when the new official date is confirmed. Learn how inflation, tariffs, and the government shutdown are shaping your benefit increase and what to expect from your check in the months ahead.

In today’s update, we explain the new Social Security COLA announcement date, why it was delayed during the government shutdown, and what the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment means for your monthly benefits. You’ll learn how the COLA is calculated using the CPI-W, the impact of rising inflation and tariffs on your increase, and how Medicare premiums could affect your final payment. The update also covers what services are paused during the shutdown, what to expect from the SSA’s timeline, and how these changes affect retirees, seniors, and anyone depending on fixed income. This impacts retirees including SSI (Supplemental Security Income), SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), survivors, VA, and spousal benefits. It’s a clear guide to help you understand how this year’s Social Security increase works, when to expect it, and how to plan for the months ahead.

BREAKING: Social Security Increase Date Finally Confirmed!

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

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IRS Announces NEW 2026 Tax Brackets – Here’s What It Means for You

Learn how the IRS’s 2026 tax bracket changes and inflation adjustments could affect your income, savings, and investments. Understand the new deduction limits, rate thresholds, and credits that shape how much you’ll pay next year.

In today’s update, learn about the IRS 2026 federal income tax bracket updates, new standard deduction amounts, and the latest changes to capital gains, child tax credits, and estate limits. Understand how inflation adjustments shift income thresholds, prevent bracket creep, and impact your take-home pay. Discover what the new $16,100 and $32,200 standard deductions mean for single and married filers, and how capital gains thresholds and estate tax exclusions have increased. This breakdown also covers the unchanged 37% top rate, new SALT deduction limits, and smaller rule changes for families, investors, and retirees. These key updates will help you plan smarter for taxes, savings, and income management in 2026.

IRS Announces NEW 2026 Tax Brackets – Here’s What It Means for You

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

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Social Security ALERT: New Supreme Court Scam Warning

Learn how scammers are using fake Supreme Court documents to target Social Security recipients and steal personal information. Learn how to spot the warning signs, stay calm, and protect your benefits from these increasingly realistic scams.

This Social Security update explains the alarming new Supreme Court scam targeting Americans in 2025. You’ll learn how fraudsters are using fake Supreme Court letters, forged signatures, and legal-sounding language to steal money and personal information. The scam falsely claims your Social Security Number is suspended and your bank accounts are frozen under court order. The discussion includes how scammers use AI voice cloning, fake documents, and fear tactics to appear legitimate. Viewers will understand how to spot red flags, verify real government communication, and protect themselves from identity theft and financial loss. This guide also highlights the government’s response, new fraud prevention tools, and practical steps seniors and Social Security beneficiaries can take to stay safe.

Social Security ALERT: New Supreme Court Scam Warning

🆓Help finding a Medicare plan is ALWAYS FREE! Call 615-639-1937 for our Medicare partner, Chapter Medicare or click here

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

If you need help with Medicare, please contact Medicare, your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), your current Medicare insurance agent/broker/plan, or feel free to contact my Medicare partner, Chapter, at 615-639-1937. Chapter: Memoir, Inc. d/b/a Chapter is a privately-owned, data and technology-enabled advisory that helps older Americans navigate retirement. Insurance agency services are provided by Chapter Advisory, LLC, a licensed health insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of Memoir, Inc. In California, Chapter Advisory, LLC does business as Chapter Insurance Services (Lic. No. 6003691).
Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations and stand alone prescription drug plans that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan’s contract renewal. While we have a database of every Medicare plan nationwide and can help you to search among all plans, we have contracts with many but not all plans. As a result, we do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 50 organizations which offer 18,160 products nationwide. We search and recommend all plans, even those we don’t directly offer. You can contact a licensed Chapter agent to find out the number of products available in your specific area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

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NEW Medicare 2026 Handbook: The Big Changes Explained Clearly

Learn how the official Medicare 2026 Handbook’s major changes — from drug caps to plan cuts — will impact your coverage and costs. Get clear guidance on what rights and risks you need to watch for heading into open enrollment.

You’ll learn what the new Medicare 2026 Handbook means: the $2,100 prescription cap, the new payment-plan option, how Medicare Advantage plans are being cut back, and what your rights are if your current plan disappears. You’ll also get clarity on Medigap switching rights, Part D penalties, and why experts say “Marry your Medigap, date your drug plan.” This gives you confidence to review your coverage and make decisions based on what really matters for 2026.

NEW Medicare 2026 Handbook: The Big Changes Explained Clearly

🆓Help finding a Medicare plan is ALWAYS FREE! Call 615-639-1937 for our Medicare partner, Chapter Medicare or click here

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

If you need help with Medicare, please contact Medicare, your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP), your current Medicare insurance agent/broker/plan, or feel free to contact my Medicare partner, Chapter, at 615-639-1937. Chapter: Memoir, Inc. d/b/a Chapter is a privately-owned, data and technology-enabled advisory that helps older Americans navigate retirement. Insurance agency services are provided by Chapter Advisory, LLC, a licensed health insurance agency and wholly owned subsidiary of Memoir, Inc. In California, Chapter Advisory, LLC does business as Chapter Insurance Services (Lic. No. 6003691).
Chapter and its affiliates are not connected with or endorsed by any government entity or the federal Medicare program. Chapter Advisory, LLC represents Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO, and PFFS organizations and stand alone prescription drug plans that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan’s contract renewal. While we have a database of every Medicare plan nationwide and can help you to search among all plans, we have contracts with many but not all plans. As a result, we do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent 50 organizations which offer 18,160 products nationwide. We search and recommend all plans, even those we don’t directly offer. You can contact a licensed Chapter agent to find out the number of products available in your specific area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-Medicare, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Categories Health, Health Insurance, Insurance, Investing and Financial Planning, Retirement
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Trump May Invoke the Insurrection Act – What Happens Next?

Learn what the Insurrection Act really allows and why President Trump’s recent remarks about using it are sparking national debate. Learn how this old law could affect military power, state authority, and your constitutional rights.

In today’s news update, we explain what the Insurrection Act is, how it gives the president the power to use the military on U.S. soil, and why President Trump’s comments about possibly invoking it are creating debate. You’ll learn how the law works, when it’s been used in the past, what legal experts are saying now, and what this could mean for states, citizens, and future presidents. The discussion covers presidential authority, law enforcement limits, martial law concerns, and the ongoing tension between federal and state power. It helps you understand the balance between order, freedom, and political control in today’s America.

Trump May Invoke the Insurrection Act – What Happens Next?

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Categories Economy & Politics, Investing and Financial Planning
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BREAKING: Social Security Chief Takes Control of the IRS — Payment & Refund Changes?

Learn why one person now leads both the IRS and Social Security, and how this could change how your taxes and benefits are handled. Learn what this historic move means for government efficiency, accountability, and everyday Americans.

In today’s news update, we explain why Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent appointed Social Security Commissioner Frank Bisignano as the first CEO of the IRS. You’ll learn how one person now leads both the IRS and the Social Security Administration, why this is historic, and what it means for your taxes, benefits, and trust in government systems. The discussion covers staffing cuts, efficiency goals, the upcoming 2026 tax season, Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill, and concerns about public service quality. It also explores the risks, challenges, and possible benefits of merging leadership between two of the most important agencies in America.

BREAKING: Social Security Chief Takes Control of the IRS — Payment & Refund Changes?

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Categories Economy & Politics, Investing and Financial Planning, Retirement, Taxes
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Social Security Payments October: Shutdown Delays, COLA Update, New Direct Deposit Rule SSA

Learn about your October 2025 Social Security payment schedule, the end of paper checks, and how new digital payment rules affect you. Learn how COLA delays, Medicare premium increases, and trust fund updates could shape your benefits in the months ahead.

In today’s update, learn about the key Social Security changes happening in October 2025, including the full payment schedule, the official end of paper checks, and updates on how direct deposits and prepaid debit cards now work. This update explains how the government shutdown could delay the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) and how Medicare premium increases may affect benefits. You’ll also understand new updates about the trust fund’s 2034 outlook, the repeal of WEP and GPO for public workers, and how new disability rules could change future eligibility. This impacts retirees including SSI (Supplemental Security Income), SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance), survivors, VA, and spousal benefits. Stay informed about payment dates, electronic transition rules, overpayment policies, and the latest updates from the Social Security Administration so you can plan ahead and protect your benefits.

Social Security Payments October: Shutdown Delays, COLA Update, New Direct Deposit Rule SSA

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

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Stimulus Update: Trump’s $2000 Checks – Real or Just Talk?

Learn how the 2025 government shutdown impacts SNAP benefits, food stamps, and WIC, and what that means for seniors, families, and communities. Learn the risks, history, and what you can do to prepare as the shutdown continues.

In today’s news update, we cover how the 2025 government shutdown affects SNAP benefits, food stamps, and WIC, explaining whether payments continue, the risks of delays, and how seniors and families may be impacted. It looks at how SNAP is funded in advance, what happens if the shutdown lasts, and why food banks and states play such a key role. It also explains the political debate, past shutdown problems, and what you can do now to stay informed. Learn about food assistance, Social Security safety, the role of USDA and states, and how millions of Americans may face risks if the shutdown continues.

Stimulus Update: Trump’s $2000 Checks – Real or Just Talk?

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Categories Economy & Politics, Investing and Financial Planning
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Government Shutdown 2025: Food Stamps at Risk

Learn how the 2025 government shutdown impacts SNAP benefits, food stamps, and WIC, and what that means for seniors, families, and communities. Learn the risks, history, and what you can do to prepare as the shutdown continues.

In today’s news update, we cover how the 2025 government shutdown affects SNAP benefits, food stamps, and WIC, explaining whether payments continue, the risks of delays, and how seniors and families may be impacted. It looks at how SNAP is funded in advance, what happens if the shutdown lasts, and why food banks and states play such a key role. It also explains the political debate, past shutdown problems, and what you can do now to stay informed. Learn about food assistance, Social Security safety, the role of USDA and states, and how millions of Americans may face risks if the shutdown continues.

Government Shutdown 2025: Food Stamps at Risk

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Categories Economy & Politics, Food & Cooking, Health, Insurance, Retirement
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Government Shutdown 2025: Paychecks, Benefits & Services at Risk

Learn how the 2025 government shutdown impacts your pay, benefits, and services you depend on, from Social Security checks to airports and national parks. Learn why shutdowns happen, what continues, what stops, and what it all means for your everyday life.

In today’s news update, learn what really happens during a government shutdown, how it impacts Social Security, Medicare, and Veterans benefits, and why federal worker paychecks are delayed. Understand how SNAP and WIC food programs are put at risk, why national parks and museums close, and what services like mail delivery and passports continue. See how air travel, federal courts, and education programs are strained, why shutdowns last longer today, and what the longest shutdown in history meant. Explore the political fight between Congress and the President, the disruption to families, and the hidden costs for contractors, small businesses, and public trust. This guide explains shutdowns in clear language so you know exactly how they affect everyday life, your money, and essential services.

Government Shutdown 2025: Paychecks, Benefits & Services at Risk

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Categories Economy & Politics, Investing and Financial Planning
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Government Shutdown Update: Social Security and Services at Risk

Learn how the government shutdown affects Social Security, Medicare, and your benefits. Learn what payments continue, which services may be delayed, and why it matters for seniors and families.

In today’s update, learn what happens to Social Security during a government shutdown and how it impacts seniors, families, and federal benefits. This update explains why Social Security payments continue, what services may be delayed, and how shutdowns affect disability claims, Medicare cards, and appeals. You’ll also understand the broader impact on the economy, small businesses, and federal workers, along with the politics behind the standoff. Find out how shutdowns cost billions, create uncertainty, and raise questions about trust in government, and learn what steps you can take to stay prepared.

Government Shutdown Update: Social Security and Services at Risk

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Money Instructor does not provide tax, legal, or investment advice. This material has been prepared for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult your own tax, legal, and investment advisors regarding your own financial situation. Although the information has been researched and vetted beforehand, it may not be current at the time of viewing. Please note, the context of financial investments can be complex and dynamic, necessitating professional advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

Categories Economy & Politics, Investing and Financial Planning, Retirement
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