Medicare Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy)
💰 Save Up to $5,000+ Per Year
Extra Help is a Medicare program that helps pay for Part D prescription drug costs. If you qualify, you could save thousands on premiums, deductibles, and copays.
What Extra Help Covers
- ✓ Part D monthly premiums (most or all)
- ✓ Annual deductibles
- ✓ Prescription copays (reduced to $4-$11 per drug)
- ✓ Eliminates the coverage gap (donut hole)
Do You Qualify?
You may qualify for Extra Help if your income and resources are below certain limits:
2026 Income Limits (approximate)
| Household | Annual Income |
|---|---|
| Single | Up to ~$22,590 |
| Married couple | Up to ~$30,660 |
2026 Resource Limits (approximate)
| Household | Resources |
|---|---|
| Single | Up to ~$17,220 |
| Married couple | Up to ~$34,360 |
Resources include savings, stocks, bonds. Does NOT include your home, car, burial plots, or life insurance.
How to Apply
Option 1: Apply Online (Fastest)
Apply at Social Security's website:
Apply for Extra Help at SSA.gov →Option 2: Call Social Security
Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
Hours: 8 AM – 7 PM, Monday – Friday
Option 3: Apply by Mail
Download Form SSA-1020 and mail it to your local Social Security office.
Option 4: Visit Social Security Office
Apply in person at your local Social Security office.
Automatic Qualification
You automatically qualify for Extra Help if you have:
- ✓ Full Medicaid coverage
- ✓ Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- ✓ Medicare Savings Program (QMB, SLMB, QI)
If you have any of these, you don't need to apply — you'll automatically get Extra Help.