August 2025 Newsletter
Q: Why did the moon break up with the sun?
A: Because it needed space.
Friends,
This month, I’m especially proud to share that my daughter Frankie is performing in The Lightning Thief — a Percy Jackson musical — August 1–3 at Trumbull High School. She’s poured her heart into this show, and we can’t wait to see her shine.
Meanwhile, I’m keeping a close eye on the new tax law changes affecting retirees and estate planning, plus updates to Medicare Advantage rules. Whether you're enjoying a peaceful summer at home or planning a big trip, I’m here to help you make sense of it all.
Kind Regards,
Michael Antonini
What’s New
1. New $6,000 Deduction for Age 65+
As part of the recently signed “One Big Beautiful Bill,” there’s now an additional $6,000 standard deduction for people aged 65 and older (2025–2028). This may reduce your federal tax bill — but it doesn’t eliminate taxes on Social Security, as some headlines claimed.
Here is a link to my recent video on an email you may have received from The Social Security Administration (SSA) on this new additional standard deduction.
2. Federal Estate Tax Exemption Raised to $15 Million
Starting this year, the estate tax exemption is rising to $15 million per person. That means most estates won’t owe federal estate taxes — but this may change in the next few years. Let’s stay prepared and coordinated with your financial advisor or attorney.
3. DSNP Value-Based Plans ending some benefits effective 12-31-2025
Medicare Advantage plans for Dual Special Needs Plans (DSNP) individuals that were using "value-based insurance design" are being phased out in many regions on 12-31-2025 per CMS rules. If you enrolled using a chronic condition SEP or other special circumstance, we may want to re-review your options this fall to keep these benefits. For Low Income beneficiaries most food and utility benefits will be eliminated. This is a CMS rule so I expect reductions across the board with all companies.
I will have the details on this available Wednesday 10-1-2025 and am eager to help you find the best fit for 2026. I am also happy to help your friends who do not know much about this.
Ask An Expert: What should I bring on a family vacation?
Planning a getaway? Here's what I recommend packing — beyond sunscreen and swimsuits:
Medicare card (or digital copy/photo)
Medication list with dosages & doctor contact info
Supplement or Advantage plan ID card
Out-of-state emergency coverage info
Travel insurance? It’s worth reviewing for longer trips.
Need a personalized vacation checklist or travel coverage review? Just let me know — happy to help you leave worry behind.
Important Dates
Let’s keep the summer fun going.
Happy August Birthdays!
August 1, 2, 3: The Lightning Thief Trumbull High School
August 11-13: The Perseid meteor shower. To best view the shower, it's recommended to find a dark sky location, away from city lights, and allow your eyes about 45 minutes to adjust to the darkness, according to CT Insider.
Thursday, August 14: 90th Anniversary of Social Security
Thursday, August 21: National Senior Citizens Day
Thursday, August 28: Full Sturgeon Moon. It is also the first of three supermoons in 2026, meaning the Moon will be near its closest point to Earth, potentially appearing slightly larger and brighter, according to SeaSky.org.
Whether you're cheering for a grandchild’s play, planning a Labor Day BBQ, gazing into the night sky or just soaking in some sun, I hope August brings joy and renewal your way. As always, I’m just a call or email away.
All the best,
Michael Antonini