Avatar photo

Eric Kustka

Managing editor, insurance and medicare advisory
Joined March 2026
medicarepal.com

Eric Jackson is the managing editor for the Medicare team at MedicarePal He oversees editorial coverage of Medicare where he is dedicated to helping readers navigate Medicare with confidence. Eric believes that when people understand their options, they’re empowered to make choices that support long-term health and financial security.

Experience
Marcus is the author of The Medicare Blueprint. He has an extensive background as a financial educator and insurance advisor, with more than 15 years of experience in the healthcare and retirement planning space.

Education
Marcus earned his bachelor’s degree in economics and later completed a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Michigan.

Articles by Eric Kustka

post-thumbnail
Medicare
Jun. 10, 2026
What Is Medicare and How Does It Work?
Medicare is a government-sponsored health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for medical expenses to eligible individuals. It was established in 1965 and primarily serves senior citizens aged 65 and older. However, it also extends coverage to some younger individuals with disabilities. Table of Contents 1. Understanding Medicare 1.1 What Is Medicare?...
post-thumbnail
Medicare
Jun. 10, 2026
How Do I Get the $16728 Social Security Bonus?
The concept of a “$16,728 Social Security bonus” has gained attention as people look for ways to maximize their Social Security benefits. It’s crucial to understand that there isn’t a one-time bonus of $16,728 that Social Security recipients can simply apply for. Instead, this figure is often used to illustrate the potential additional amount someone...
post-thumbnail
Medicare
Jun. 10, 2026
How do you get $144 added back to your social security check every month?
Ensuring financial stability during your retirement years is a top priority for many individuals, and every extra dollar can make a significant difference. If you’re receiving Social Security benefits and are looking to boost your income, you may be interested in learning how to get an additional $144 added to your Social Security check every...
post-thumbnail
Medicare
Jun. 10, 2026
Who qualifies for an extra $144 added to their social security?
Social Security plays a crucial role in providing financial stability to millions of Americans during their retirement years. In an effort to ensure that retirees can maintain a basic standard of living, the government has implemented various programs and initiatives to supplement Social Security benefits. One such initiative is the Extra Help program, which provides...
post-thumbnail
Medicare
Jun. 10, 2026
What Zip Codes Have the Medicare Give Back Program
Medicare, the federal health insurance program primarily for Americans aged 65 and older, offers a range of benefits to ensure seniors have access to essential healthcare services. One of the lesser-known programs within Medicare is the Medicare Give Back Program, designed to provide financial relief to beneficiaries living in specific areas. In this post, we...
post-thumbnail
Annuities
Jun. 10, 2026
What is Medicare
Medicare, the federal healthcare program in the United States, plays a crucial role in providing access to essential medical services for millions of Americans. Created in 1965, Medicare has evolved to become a cornerstone of healthcare coverage for eligible individuals, primarily those aged 65 and older, and certain younger individuals with disabilities. In this comprehensive...
post-thumbnail
Espanol
Jun. 10, 2026
¿Qué es Medicare y cómo funciona?
Medicare is a government-sponsored health insurance program in the United States that provides coverage for medical expenses to eligible individuals. It was established in 1965 and primarily serves senior citizens aged 65 and older. However, it also extends coverage to some younger individuals with disabilities. Table of Contents 1. Understanding Medicare 1.1 What Is Medicare?...
post-thumbnail
Retirement
Jun. 10, 2026
Retirement Roadmap: Crafting Your Financial Future
Medicare Short Plans provide a concise and streamlined approach to healthcare coverage for eligible individuals. These plans typically offer essential benefits tailored to specific needs, ensuring comprehensive medical services without unnecessary complexities. With a focus on affordability and simplicity, Medicare Short Plans are designed to meet the evolving healthcare needs of beneficiaries, offering a practical...