Extra Help (Medicare Part D Low Income Subsidy)

About This Program

Extra Help — officially the Part D Low Income Subsidy — is one of Medicare's most valuable and least-claimed benefits. It pays for most or all of the costs associated with a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan: the monthly premium, the annual deductible, and per-prescription copays. Full Extra Help can reduce drug costs by an average of $5,900 per year. Even partial Extra Help provides significant savings. To qualify for full Extra Help in 2025, your income must be at or below about $22,590 (single) or $30,660 (couple), with limited assets. Partial Extra Help extends to slightly higher income levels. People who receive Medicaid, SSI, or Medicare Savings Program assistance are typically automatically enrolled in Extra Help and should not need to apply separately. If you are not automatically enrolled, you apply through the Social Security Administration — by phone (1-800-772-1213), online at ssa.gov, or in person at an SSA office. The application is separate from Medicare enrollment. Many eligible beneficiaries, particularly those who are newly eligible or who have had income changes, are not enrolled in Extra Help despite qualifying. Enrollment in Extra Help allows you to change your Part D drug plan during a Special Enrollment Period, rather than waiting for open enrollment. This matters because you may be able to find a plan that covers your specific medications at lower cost once your Extra Help status is confirmed.

Eligibility Requirements

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