What is 'Extra Help' and could it lower my Medicare drug costs?

Extra Help is a federal program that lowers what you pay for Medicare Part D, including your premium, deductible, and the copays at the pharmacy, if your income and resources are limited. It's sometimes called the Part D Low-Income Subsidy, and for people who qualify it can be worth thousands of dollars a year. A few things are useful to know. Eligibility is based on your income and resources, and the limits are set each year, so it's worth rechecking even if you didn't qualify in the past. Some people qualify automatically, for example if you have both Medicare and Medicaid, you get Supplemental Security Income, or you're in a Medicare Savings Program. And you can apply anytime through the Social Security Administration at SSA.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Qualifying can also open a Special Enrollment Period that lets you change your drug plan. Extra Help works with your Part D or Medicare Advantage drug coverage rather than replacing it. To see the current income and resource limits and to apply, start at SSA.gov or Medicare.gov, or reach out to your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program for free counseling. A licensed agent can also help you check whether you might qualify, and there's no cost to you.

— Matt Rolph, Los Angeles, CAVerified