ArcaMax

Hi Toni,

In September I turn 65. I’m on COBRA from my job, which I retired from in May when I had heart surgery. The cardiologist informed me last week that the only thing that will improve my health is a heart transplant.

I need your guidance because I do not know what to do about enrolling in Medicare. Should I enroll in Medicare’s ...Read more

Dear Readers: This week I had my own experience with Medicare as my 92-year-old mother has reached her final stage of hospice. I feel it is important for me to explain hospice, so those with a terminally ill loved one learn the value of it. This information was given to me by the hospice provider taking care of my mother.

Dear Toni,

I ...Read more

Editor’s Note: Last week’s column about the “plastic Medicare card” scam stated that the most recent Medicare card update was in April of 2019. In fact, the rollout began in April 2018 and was completed 3 months prior to the scheduled completion date of April 2019. We apologize for any confusion.

Dear Toni,

Can you please explain ...Read more

Editor’s Note: The previous version of this column stated that the most recent Medicare card update was in April of 2019. In fact, the rollout began in April 2018 and was completed 3 months of the scheduled completion date of April 2019.

Reader Alert: You may remember reading about this scam in the Toni Says column several months ago. Below ...Read more

Toni,

My Medicare began June 1, and I received my first bill about a week ago. This bill is for 4 months from June 1 to Sept. 30 and is over $700. I thought Medicare was monthly. If I pay this amount, due on July 25, then I cannot pay my rent for August.

I was wondering if Medicare allows payments for Medicare Part B premiums to be monthly....Read more