HOOK
Thinking Medicare Part B is free because you paid into Medicare? Not quite. The monthly premium, deductible, and possible extra charges can change what you actually pay.
[On-screen: “Part B isn’t free” + simple cost breakdown animation]
KEY POINT 1
Part B covers outpatient care like doctor visits, lab work, and preventive services. In most cases, you pay a monthly premium for it, even if you’re already on Social Security.
[B-roll: doctor’s office, lab tests, Medicare card]
KEY POINT 2
You also have a yearly deductible. That means you usually pay out of pocket first before Medicare starts paying its share for covered services.
[On-screen: “Premium + Deductible” with meter filling]
KEY POINT 3
If your income is above a certain level, you may pay more through something called IRMAA. It’s an extra amount added on top of your regular Part B premium.
[B-roll: tax forms, calculator, “IRMAA” label]
KEY POINT 4
The best move? Check your current income, confirm whether Part B applies to you yet, and compare how these costs fit into your total retirement budget.
[On-screen: checklist with “premium, deductible, IRMAA, budget”]
CTA
Want to avoid a surprise bill? Look up Medicare Part B costs for the current year, and talk to Social Security or Medicare if you’re unsure what you’ll owe.
[On-screen: “Save this before enrolling” + Medicare.gov search bar]