If you’re on Medicare and have a high income, you may have to pay an extra fee called the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA).
This charge applies to both Medicare Part B and Part D premiums. But how much will it cost for a married couple filing separately in 2025? Let’s break it down.
IRMAA Basics
IRMAA is an additional surcharge that affects high-income Medicare beneficiaries. It’s determined by the Social Security Administration (SSA) based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) from two years prior. That means your 2023 income will be used to calculate your 2025 IRMAA costs.
If the IRS doesn’t have your 2023 tax data available, they may use 2022 information instead. The higher your income, the more you’ll have to pay in addition to the standard Medicare premiums.
Income Brackets
For 2025, the standard Medicare Part B premium is set at $185.00 per month. However, those subject to IRMAA will pay higher premiums. Here’s what a married couple filing separately can expect to pay:
| 2023 Income Level | 2025 Part B Premium | 2025 Part D Surcharge |
|---|---|---|
| $106,000 or less | $185.00 | No surcharge |
| $106,000 – $394,000 | $591.90 | Plan premium + $78.60 |
| $394,000 or more | $628.90 | Plan premium + $85.80 |
As you can see, IRMAA can significantly increase your monthly costs if your income is over $106,000.
How to Determine
To find out if you’ll owe IRMAA in 2025, follow these steps:
- Check your 2023 tax return – Look for your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI).
- Calculate your MAGI – Add any tax-exempt interest, foreign-earned income, and other excluded amounts to your AGI.
- Compare it to the IRMAA brackets – If your MAGI exceeds $106,000 as a married couple filing separately, you’ll have to pay IRMAA.
Ways to Reduce
Since IRMAA is based on income from two years ago, planning ahead is key. Here are some strategies to help manage or lower your IRMAA:
- Reduce taxable income – Consider Roth IRA conversions, tax-loss harvesting, or charitable contributions to lower your MAGI.
- Delay Social Security benefits – Taking Social Security later could help reduce your income in some cases.
- Manage capital gains – Avoid large, one-time capital gains that could push you into a higher bracket.
- Request an appeal – If you’ve had a life-changing event (like retirement, divorce, or loss of income), you can appeal your IRMAA determination with the SSA.
IRMAA can be a costly surprise, but with proper planning, you can manage or even reduce its impact on your Medicare costs. Knowing where you stand now can help you take action before it’s too late.
FAQs
What is the IRMAA income limit for 2025?
For married couples filing separately, IRMAA starts at $106,000 income.
Can I appeal my IRMAA charges?
Yes, you can appeal if you’ve had a life-changing event affecting income.
How is IRMAA calculated?
It’s based on your MAGI from two years prior, using IRS tax data.
Does everyone on Medicare pay IRMAA?
No, only those with incomes above the set thresholds must pay IRMAA.
Can IRMAA be avoided?
Yes, by managing taxable income through strategies like Roth conversions.
