Ray's Retire Right Report Retire Right — Retire Smart! Raymond T. Martin, Retirement Coach and Medicare Planning
February 2025 Happy February! This month I’m bringing you more goodies – fun facts and interesting stories. I hope these make you think and smile.
February is "National Haiku Writing Month" February 9th – 15th is "International Flirting Week" And February 25th is "Inconvenience Yourself Day"
When Cows Fly On February 18, 1930, a cow named Nellie Jay made world history as the first cow to fly in an airplane. She was chosen fly for her unusually high milk production, calm temperament, and weight of 1,000 pounds. The flight was a stunt during an exposition held in St. Louis. During the 72-mile trip Nellie Jay was milked producing 24 quarts. (Elsworth Bunce made world history as the first man to milk a cow while airborne.) The milk was sealed in paper cartons then parachuted down to the air show crowd below. The flight and its unusual passenger were billed as part of a study on the effects of flying on livestock, and to demonstrate the aircraft’s stability. Post-flight, Nellie Jan was given the nickname "The Sky Queen" and posed with people in front of a sign that read "Guernsey’s are always ahead.”
Who commanded the U.S.S. Enterprise in TV’s Star Trek before Capt. James T. Kirk? (See the Answer Area.)
The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P) is a program designed to help beneficiaries manage out-of-pocket prescription drug costs under Medicare Part D. Starting in 2025, M3P allows enrollees to spread their out-of-pocket costs evenly over 12 months, instead of paying large sums upfront. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with high-cost medications, as it ensures predictable and manageable monthly expenses. Here’s how M3P works: Once you enroll, your Medicare Part D plan calculates your total expected out-of-pocket costs for the year, up to the new $2,000 annual cap. Instead of paying as you go, your costs are divided into equal monthly payments. For example, if your out-of-pocket costs are estimated to be $1,200, you would pay $100 each month, regardless of when you fill your prescriptions. To enroll in M3P, you must contact your Medicare Part D plan provider. Enrollment is not automatic, so it’s important to reach out directly. Call the customer service number on the back of your Part D membership card or visit your plan’s website for details. Be prepared to complete any necessary paperwork or consent forms. It’s best to enroll as early in the year as possible to take full advantage of the smoothing program. M3P offers a practical way to manage prescription costs, but timely enrollment is key. If you think M3P could benefit you, contact your Part D provider as soon as possible to get started.
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