Author: Jim Miller
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Savvy Senior: Can you get a lump-sum Social Security payment?
Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve read that the Social Security Administration offers a lump-sum payment to new retirees who need some extra cash. I haven’t yet filed for my retirement benefits and would like to find out if this is true. What can you tell me? — Born In 1958 Dear 1958, There is indeed a…
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Savvy Senior: How to use Medicare’s star ratings system during open enrollment
Dear Savvy Senior, What does Medicare factor into their star rating system? I need to find a new Medicare plan during the open enrollment period and want to get it right this time. — Medicare Shopper Dear Shopper, If you’re shopping and comparing Medicare Advantage plans (the alternative to original Medicare) or Part D prescription…
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Savvy Senior: How to use Medicare’s star ratings system during open enrollment
Dear Savvy Senior, What does Medicare factor into their star rating system? I need to find a new Medicare plan during the open enrollment period and want to get it right this time. — Medicare Shopper Dear Shopper, If you’re shopping and comparing Medicare Advantage plans (the alternative to original Medicare) or Part D prescription…
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Savvy Senior: How to use Medicare’s star ratings system during open enrollment
Dear Savvy Senior, What does Medicare factor into their star rating system? I need to find a new Medicare plan during the open enrollment period and want to get it right this time. — Medicare Shopper Dear Shopper, If you’re shopping and comparing Medicare Advantage plans (the alternative to original Medicare) or Part D prescription…
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Savvy Senior: What seniors need to know about this fall’s vaccines
Dear Savvy Senior, With a longtime vaccine critic leading the nation’s health departments, can you give me updated information on which vaccines are recommended for Medicare seniors this fall? — Medicare Mary Dear Mary, Even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is undergoing major cultural changes and upheaval, the overall fall vaccine recommendations…
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Savvy Senior: Is Social Security still taxable?
Dear Savvy Senior, Do I have to pay taxes on my Social Security retirement benefits? I heard that President Trump’s big, beautiful bill eliminated that. What can you tell me? — About to Retire Dear About, No, the new law, better known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” did not eliminate Social Security taxes.…
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Savvy Senior: Does Medicare cover ambulance rides?
Dear Savvy Senior, A few months ago, I took an ambulance to the hospital emergency room because I had a nasty fall at home, but just received a hefty $1,050 bill from the ambulance company. Doesn’t Medicare cover ambulance rides? — Frustrated Beneficiary Dear Beneficiary, Yes, Medicare does cover emergency ambulance services and, in limited…
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Savvy Senior: Where to find senior discounts in 2025
Dear Savvy Senior, My husband and I are in our 50s and would like to know what resources you recommend for locating senior discounts, and what age do they kick in? — Frugal Fay Dear Fay, One of the great perks of growing older in America is the many discounts that are available. There are…
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Savvy Senior: How to get relief from dry eyes
Dear Savvy Senior, What kinds of treatments are available to combat dry eyes? Since I turned 55, my eyes have become increasingly dry and sensitive. — Blinking Brenda Dear Brenda, Dry eye is a very common problem that affects an estimated 16 million Americans. But you don’t have to just put up with it. There…
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Savvy Senior: How to find affordable senior housing near you
Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any resources that you know of that can help seniors locate affordable housing? My sister, who’s 65 years old, needs to find a different place to live but has very little money. What can you tell me? — Searching Sister Dear Searching, Finding affordable senior housing options can be challenging…