The VitalShield Insider

Smart Strategies for Medicare, Life Insurance, and Retirement Protection

Minnesota and Florida Edition | May 2026 | Issue 1

From Tim at VitalShield

Most people assume their coverage is “good enough” once it is in place.

Then something changes. A prescription is no longer covered. A premium jumps. A gap shows up where they thought they were protected.

This monthly update is designed to keep you ahead of those problems.
Simple insights. Real changes. Clear next steps.

If anything here makes you think about your own situation, reach out. That is what I am here for.

Medicare Moves

Part D costs changed again

The out of pocket cap for prescription drugs is now $2,100 for 2026. Once you hit that number, covered medications cost you nothing for the rest of the year.

That sounds like good news. But the deductible also increased to $615, and many plans changed their formularies.

What this means for you
A plan that worked last year may not be the best option now.

Part B premiums jumped

Part B premiums increased by 9.7 percent. That is one of the largest increases in years.

If you are on a fixed income, this matters more than most people realize.

Drug pricing changes are showing up

Several major medications now have lower negotiated prices. Some people are seeing real savings. Others are not because of plan design.

What to do now

Pull out your medication list and compare it to your current plan. If you have not reviewed your coverage this year, you are guessing.

Health Insurance Watch

Marketplace costs went up fast

The enhanced tax credits expired at the end of 2025. Many people are seeing premiums increase by over $1,000 per year.

On top of that, carriers raised rates by an average of 18 percent.
What this means

If your premium jumped, you are not alone. But you may still have options depending on your income and situation.

Special enrollments are being missed

Many people think they have to wait until open enrollment. That is not always true.
If you had a life change like a job switch, marriage, or a move, you may qualify for a special enrollment period right now.

What to do now

Do not assume your current plan is your only option. A quick review can uncover better coverage or lower costs.

Life Strategy

More families are finally taking action

Life insurance applications hit record levels last year. Many middle income families are locking in coverage they had been putting off.

Why
Because the risk is real. And the cost of waiting keeps going up.

Term rates are not getting cheaper

There is a common belief that rates might drop. They do not.

Life insurance pricing is based on your age and health. Every year you wait, it costs more.

IUL is evolving

Indexed universal life is still growing, but newer designs are more conservative. The focus is shifting toward long term protection and steady accumulation.

What to do now

If your policy is more than five years old, or you do not have one, it is time for a review.

A small gap today can turn into a major problem later.

Wealth and Retirement

Interest rates may start dropping

The Federal Reserve is expected to reduce rates this year.
That affects savings accounts, CDs, and future income strategies.

Social Security changes continue

The cost of living adjustment was 2.8 percent this year. Full retirement age is now 67 for many retirees.

Financial pressure is rising

Consumer debt reached record levels. Many families are feeling it every month.
What this means

This is exactly when having the right protection and income strategy matters most.
What to do now

If you have money sitting in low earning accounts, or no plan for guaranteed income, it is worth reviewing your options.

What Smart Clients Are Doing Right Now

They are not waiting.

They are reviewing their Medicare plan before it creates a problem.
They are locking in life insurance while they are still healthy.
They are looking at safe ways to create income in retirement.

They are making decisions before they are forced to.

A Quick Note From Me

If we have not reviewed your coverage in the past year, there is a good chance something has changed.

I keep a few 15 minute review spots open each week.

No pressure. No sales pitch. Just a clear look at where you stand.

Call or text me at 763-290-1267 to grab a time.

If you’re 55 or older, there’s a simple way to reduce your auto insurance premiums - and most people don’t realize how easy it is.

Minnesota allows a 10% discount on your auto insurance for 3 years just for completing an approved defensive driving course.

I actually took it myself. It was straightforward, done online, and honestly… worth it for the savings alone. Everything adds up.

Once completed, you just send the certificate to your insurance company and they apply the discount.

Use this Code Our Minnesota-Approved course is only $14.95 when your clients use your agency code – MNGRE

• If you're a current client we can get it to you free -

If you know someone turning 65 or someone who has been putting off life insurance, feel free to pass this along. I will take care of them.

Tim Peddycoart

VitalShield Insurance Services
Medicare | Health | Life | Retirement Planning

This information is for general educational purposes only. Coverage and availability vary by state and carrier. For advice specific to your situation, reach out directly.