MEDICARE EXTRA HELP
WHAT IS EXTRA HELP?
Individuals with limited resources and fixed incomes may qualify for extra help with Medicare costs—monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments—related to Medicare prescription drug plans.
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In some cases, Medicare Savings Programs may also pay Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Medicare Part B (medical insurance) deductibles, coinsurance, and co-payments if certain criteria are met.
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In addition, your state may offer help with Medicare costs. We can help you determine your eligibility.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Once you choose a plan, you will be asked to provide the insurer with documentation proving that you are receiving extra help. Documents that can be used as proof include:
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A purple, yellow, or green notice of automatic qualification from Medicare
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An Extra Help Award Notice from the Social Security Administration
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Your Supplemental Security Income Award Letter
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A copy of your Medicaid card
If you qualify for Medicaid, then your Part B will be added back to your Social Security check.
DO I QUALIFY?
How do you know if you qualify for Medicare Extra Help? The Medicare Savings Program has a list of countable resources that includes:
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Money in a checking or savings account
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Your monthly income
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​Stocks and bonds
The following assets are not included among the countable resources:
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​Your home
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Your car
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Your burial plot and up to $1,500 for burial expenses if you have put that money aside
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Furniture, other household items, and personal items
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The federal government's income limits change each year.
If you don't qualify this year, you may qualify next year.
HOW DO I SIGN UP?
There are several ways to sign up for Medicare Extra Help:
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Apply online through the Social Security Administration site.
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Apply in person at your local Social Security office.
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Call 800-722-1213 to apply over the phone.
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Request a physical application by mail.
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Our office is happy to help you with the application process at no cost to you.
