Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) — LIS
Extra Help, also called the Low-Income Subsidy, is a Medicare program that lowers Part D drug plan costs for people with limited income and resources.
Official source: ssa.gov
Extra Help is a plan that helps people pay for their Medicare Part D drug costs. It is also called the Low-Income Subsidy. This help is for people who have low income and not many resources. This means they do not have a lot of money in the bank or valuable items. Extra Help can make your prescription drugs much cheaper. It can also help you avoid paying a penalty if you join a Medicare drug plan late. This penalty is called the late enrollment penalty. Many people who have Medicare also qualify for Extra Help. It is important to know if you can get this help. Applying for Extra Help is a good idea if you think you might qualify. This is true even if you are not sure. You can apply for Extra Help at any time online. You can also apply by mail or at a Social Security office.
In real life
- A person on a fixed income with $15,000 in savings may qualify for full Extra Help.
- Maria struggles to afford her medications. Because her income is very low, Extra Help makes her drug costs much cheaper.
- David used to pay a lot for his prescriptions. Now, with Extra Help, his Medicare drug plan costs are significantly reduced.
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Frequently asked questions about Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
What is Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)?+
Extra Help, also called the Low-Income Subsidy, is a Medicare program that lowers Part D drug plan costs for people with limited income and resources.
Who qualifies for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)?+
Most people 65+, plus some younger people with qualifying disabilities or end-stage renal disease.
How do I apply for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)?+
Most people are enrolled automatically at 65. To pick a plan or sign up manually, go to medicare.gov or call your free SHIP counselor. Official forms and instructions: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help.
Where can I get help?+
Call your free State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for one-on-one Medicare counseling at no cost, or compare plans at medicare.gov.
Source: ssa.gov