Extra Help: Low-Income Subsidy for Medicare

If your income is low, you may qualify for Extra Help, which covers Part D drugs and lowers Part B premiums. The program is free. Apply through Social Security.

What Extra Help covers

Extra Help (officially the Part D Low-Income Subsidy) pays your Part D drug premiums, deductibles, and copays. Most beneficiaries pay $0 or near-$0 for drugs.

Extra Help may also lower your Part A and Part B premiums and deductibles, depending on your income. It's a federal benefit — no state variation.

Income and resource limits for 2026

Single: income up to $21,880/year, resources up to $13,940. Married: income up to $29,350/year, resources up to $20,910. These limits change yearly.

Resources include savings, investments, and property (but not your home or car). Social Security income, pensions, and other sources count toward the income limit.

How to apply

Apply through Social Security (1-800-772-1213), Medicare.gov, or Medicaid office in your state. During AEP, you can apply and select a $0 premium plan at the same time.

If approved, you'll get a Special Needs Plan (SNP) or be automatically enrolled in a $0 premium plan. You can switch plans during AEP without restriction.

Annual recertification

Extra Help eligibility renews yearly. Social Security typically notifies you if your eligibility changes. If your income or resources change, report it immediately to avoid overpayments.

During AEP, all Extra Help beneficiaries can re-enroll or switch plans without restriction, even if they've already switched once.

Frequently asked questions

If I get Extra Help, does it count as Medicaid?

No. Extra Help is a federal Medicare program, not Medicaid. You can receive Extra Help without being on Medicaid.

What if my income or resources change mid-year?

Report the change to Social Security immediately. Your Extra Help status may be updated. If you become ineligible, you lose the benefit and may face Part D copays going forward.

Can I switch plans if I'm on Extra Help?

Yes, during AEP, you can switch unlimited times at no penalty. Outside AEP, you cannot switch unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Is there a waiting period if I apply for Extra Help late?

No. Benefits start the first of the month you're approved. Apply anytime, and the benefit is retroactive to the first of that month.

General educational information only, not legal or financial advice. Extra Help eligibility, income limits, and application processes are set by CMS and Social Security. Confirm your eligibility directly.

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