Brief
Trump administration launches $90 Medicare Part B rebate for 20 million enrollees
The rebate, costing roughly $2 billion, will be sent by direct deposit or check this week, but millions of Medicare users remain ineligible.
By Felo News Desk · Published
President Donald Trump announced that his administration will issue a one‑time $90 payment to roughly 20.8 million original Medicare Part B enrollees, a move that will cost about $2 billion, according to the Los Angeles Times.
What happened
The rebate will be distributed this week. Eligible beneficiaries will receive a direct‑deposit on or around Friday, while others will get a paper check from the Treasury later in October. The payments target people who are not receiving premium assistance from Medicaid and who do not pay an income‑related monthly adjusted amount.
What the reports add
The article notes that Medicare Advantage participants—more than half of the 64.2 million Medicare beneficiaries—are excluded, as are about 12 million low‑income older adults and people with disabilities who receive premium assistance. Roughly 35 million Medicare Advantage enrollees and millions of disabled recipients will not receive the rebate.
What was said
Allison Schuster, a White House spokeswoman, said the administration "is enabling Americans to take control of their health by putting money directly back in the hands of Medicare patients." Juliette Cubanski, director of KFF’s Medicare policy program, explained that the payment is automatic and requires no action from beneficiaries.
How it came about
The rebate follows earlier reporting by Felo News on Oct. 3 that the White House planned $90 checks for 20 million Part B users, funded by the Medicare Improvement Fund. The rollout occurs weeks before the Nov. 3 midterm elections, where health‑care costs are a top voter concern.
Key facts
- The Trump administration will issue a $90 rebate to about 20.8 million Medicare Part B enrollees. (latimes.com)
- Eligibility excludes Medicare Advantage participants and low‑income beneficiaries who receive premium assistance. (latimes.com)
- Payments will be made by direct deposit this week, with paper checks following later in October. (latimes.com)
- The program is expected to cost roughly $2 billion. (latimes.com)
Sources
- [1] latimes.com — originally reported as “Trump's $90 Medicare rebate rolls out, but millions aren't eligible. Critics see a political stunt”
