It’s Easy to Get Extra Help with Your Prescription Costs
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: August 19, 2021
In times like these, every dollar counts. Some people qualify for big savings on their Medicare prescription drug costs and don’t even realize it! In fact, if you receive Medicare, you may be eligible for the Extra Help, which could save you about $4,000 per year on your monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments.
To qualify for Extra Help, you must be receiving Medicare, have limited resources and income, and reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. To find out if you qualify, Social Security will need to know the value of your savings, investments, real estate (other than your home), and your income. We will also need information about you and your spouse, if you are married and living together.
To apply for Extra Help, you need to complete Social Security’s Application for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs. Our secure online application has self-help screens that guide you through a series of questions. You can apply from the comfort of your home, or from any other computer that is convenient to you. You can start and stop the application at any time, and go back later to finish it.
If you choose, you can apply for Extra Help over the phone by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or visit your local Social Security office.
After you apply, Social Security will review your application and send you a letter letting you know if you qualify for Extra Help. Once you qualify, you can choose a Medicare prescription drug plan.
When you file your application for Extra Help, you can also start an application for a Medicare Savings Program — state programs that provide help to people with limited resources and income with Medicare expenses
Make sure you aren’t missing out on these easy savings. The sooner you apply , the sooner your savings begin.
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Tags: Medicare, online services
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Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
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marvn s.
how do I get dental as advertised on tv with the joe Namath ad
Ray F.
Medicare doesn’t cover everything. Most dental care is not covered by Medicare. Please visit http://www.Medicare.gov for information on Medicare medical coverage. Thanks!
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Betty G.
Can you provide me with the following information. What is the amount you can draw per month where you would be able to receive additional help with medicines?
Ray F.
Hello Betty. Please visit our “Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs” web page for complete information. Thanks!
James O.
filling out form for extra help the form for medacare number dose not fit my number what do I do numbers don’t line up with my mumbers
Bernard G.
Part B was terminated my mistake. I need a letter send to me saying it was reinistated so I can send to ins co
Ray F.
Hello Bernard. If you need proof you get Medicare benefits, you can request a benefit verification letter online by using your my Social Security account. If you need further assistance and need to speak to one of our agents, call us at 1-800-772-1213. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Thanks!
Judy D.
I am reapplying, you sent me a letter by mail, I need to know if I use my new medicare number or the old one when filling out the application?? for extra help with prescription drugs
Ray F.
Hi Judy, if you need help completing the application for “Extra Help With Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs“, call Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 or
TTY 1-800-325-0778. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Generally, you will have a shorter wait time if you call later during the day or later in the week. Thanks.
Kathleen N.
I know my income is too high to qualify for Extra Help. Do I still have to fill out and return the application? It is not clear about this anywhere.
Vonda V.
Hi Kathleen. You do not have to fill it out but keep in mind that you may be able to get help from your State with other Medicare costs under the Medicare Savings Programs. By completing the Extra Help application, you will start your application process for a Medicare Savings Program. We will send information to your State who will contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program unless you tell us not to when you complete the application.
If you need information about Medicare Savings Programs, Medicare Prescription Drug plans or how to enroll in a plan, call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048) or visit http://www.medicare.gov. You also can request information about how to contact your State Health Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (SHIP). The SHIP offers help with your Medicare questions.
Arlene N.
How do I did-enroll from Medicare Part B. I’m covered under my husband’s plan.
Arlene N.
How do I disenroll in Medicare Part B. I’m covered by my husband’s employer.
Guadalupe P.
I applied by phone for extra help for prescriptions. When do benefits start?