Do you need assistance paying for your prescription costs? Extra Help, also called the low-income subsidy (LIS), is a Social Security program that helps Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources pay for their Part D premiums, deductibles, and co-payments.

Who qualifies for Extra Help? In 2023, the resource limit is $16,660 for an individual or $33,240 for a married couple living together. Resources include bank accounts, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and cash, among other things. You do not have to count things like your primary residence, vehicles, life insurance policies, and burial expenses.

The annual income limit in 2023 is $20,385 for an individual or $27,465 for a married couple living together. However, Medicare beneficiaries may still be eligible if their income is higher under certain circumstances.

Additionally, to qualify, you must be receiving Medicare and reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. You do not need to be enrolled in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) to file for Extra Help, but assistance does not start until you are enrolled in a Part D plan.

To apply for Extra Help, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213, contact your local Social Security office, or click here.

Click here to view the full 2023 “Understanding the Extra Help with Your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan” guide.

After receiving Extra Help, Social Security may periodically review your status. If you receive a Review of Your Eligibility for Extra Help form, it’s important that you complete and return it within 30 days. This review is usually sent at the end of August each year. If you are not selected for review, your Extra Help amount will not change for the following year.

By: Steven Thomas Smith

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