Prescription drug costs can take a serious toll on older adults and people with disabilities. Even with Medicare coverage, the price of medications can add up quickly.
Fortunately, Medicare’s Part D Extra Help program—also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)—offers powerful financial relief for those who qualify. Here’s what you need to know about applying, eligibility, and benefits.
What Is the Medicare Extra Help Program?
The Medicare Part D Extra Help program is a federal initiative designed to make prescription drugs more affordable for people with limited income and assets. It’s jointly managed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
The goal is simple: ensure everyone can access needed medications without facing financial hardship.
How Extra Help Reduces Costs
Depending on your financial situation, you may receive either full or partial assistance through Extra Help. The level of assistance determines how much you’ll pay for monthly premiums, deductibles, and copayments under your Medicare Part D plan. Many participants pay little to nothing for their prescriptions, making the program one of Medicare’s most valuable benefits.
Who Qualifies for Extra Help in 2025
To qualify for Extra Help, you must be enrolled in Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and/or Part B (Medical Insurance) and live in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia.
The program focuses on helping individuals and couples with limited income and resources who might otherwise struggle to afford their medications.
Income and Resource Limits
In 2025, your annual income generally must be below $23,000 for an individual or $31,000 for a married couple living together. These limits adjust slightly each year to reflect inflation and cost-of-living changes.
Your resources—like savings, stocks, and bonds—must also fall below specific thresholds. However, your home, car, and personal belongings aren’t counted toward these limits.
Why You Should Apply Even If You’re Slightly Above the Limit
Even if your income or assets are slightly higher than the official limits, it’s still worth applying. Social Security considers certain circumstances—such as ongoing medical expenses, family support, or other financial challenges—that might allow you to qualify. Many people assume they don’t meet the requirements when, in fact, they do.
How to Apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help
Applying for Extra Help is free, straightforward, and can be completed in several convenient ways. Whether you’re tech-savvy or prefer paper forms, there’s an option that fits your comfort level. You only need to apply once, and if approved, your benefits can continue as long as you remain eligible.
1. Apply Online
The fastest and easiest method is to apply online through the official Social Security Administration website at www.ssa.gov/extrahelp. You’ll need to sign in or create a “my Social Security” account. The application typically takes less than 30 minutes to complete and provides instant confirmation of submission.
2. Apply by Phone
If you prefer personal assistance, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). Representatives are available Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. They can guide you through the application process and answer questions about eligibility or documentation.
3. Apply by Mail
You can also request a paper application, fill it out at your own pace, and mail it back to Social Security. This option works well for those who aren’t comfortable applying online or prefer to keep physical copies of their records.
4. Apply in Person
If you’d rather speak to someone face-to-face, visit your local Social Security office. Call ahead to schedule an appointment and avoid long wait times. Local representatives can provide personalized guidance and ensure your application is complete before submission.
Documents You’ll Need
Before you apply, gather key information to make the process smoother. You’ll need your Social Security number, income details (like wages, pensions, or benefits), bank account balances, and investment or savings information. Having your Medicare and prescription drug plan details on hand also helps ensure accurate processing and faster approval.
What Happens After You Apply
Once your application is submitted, the Social Security Administration reviews your information and sends a letter by mail to let you know if you qualify. If approved, you can select a Medicare Part D plan that best fits your prescription needs—or keep your current plan and automatically receive the lower costs.
The Benefits of Extra Help
Depending on your level of subsidy, you may pay reduced or no premiums, lower copayments, and no deductible. In many cases, Extra Help can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars each year on prescriptions. The savings can make a meaningful difference for people living on fixed or modest incomes.
The Medicare Part D Extra Help program is one of the most valuable yet underused benefits available to older adults and people with disabilities.
Many who qualify never apply simply because they aren’t aware of it. Taking a few minutes to apply could significantly reduce your medication expenses and ease your financial stress.
FAQs
What is the Medicare Part D Extra Help program?
The Extra Help program, also called the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), is a federal benefit that helps Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources pay for prescription drug costs including premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
Who qualifies for Medicare Extra Help in 2025?
To qualify, you must have Medicare Part A and/or Part B, live in one of the 50 U.S. states or D.C., and have limited income and resources. For 2025, income limits are about $23,000 for individuals and $31,000 for married couples.
How do I apply for Extra Help?
You can apply online at www.ssa.gov/extrahelp, by calling 1-800-772-1213, by mail using a paper form, or in person at your local Social Security office.
What documents do I need to apply?
Have your Social Security number, income details, bank balances, savings, and investment information ready, as well as your Medicare and prescription drug plan details.
How much money can Extra Help save me?
Depending on your level of assistance, you could save hundreds or even thousands of dollars a year through reduced premiums, lower copayments, and no deductibles on Medicare Part D prescriptions.
