Medicare Extra Help (LIS) | Save on Prescription Costs
What Is Medicare Extra Help (LIS)?
Medicare Extra Help (LIS), commonly known as the Low-Income Subsidy, is a federal program through the Social Security Administration (SSA) and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that helps eligible Medicare beneficiaries pay for prescription drugs covered under Medicare Part D. If you qualify, Extra Help can significantly reduce or eliminate many out-of-pocket costs such as monthly Part D premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription copayments or coinsurance.
The purpose of Medicare Extra Help (LIS) is to make necessary medications affordable for people with limited income and resources. The exact level of assistance depends on your household income and countable resources (like savings and investments). Many people who assume they are ineligible actually qualify after allowable deductions are considered.
Who Qualifies for Medicare Extra Help (LIS)?
Eligibility depends on several factors, including income and financial resources. You generally may qualify if you:
- Are enrolled in Medicare Part A or Part B;
- Live in the United States (50 states or D.C.);
- Meet the SSA's annual income and resource limits for the Low-Income Subsidy program.
People who receive Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or certain Medicare Savings Programs are often automatically enrolled in Extra Help.
How to Apply for Medicare Extra Help (LIS)
Applying for Medicare Extra Help (LIS) is free and can be completed online, by phone, or in person. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official SSA page: SSA.gov/extrahelp.
- Click “Apply for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs” and complete the form.
- You can also call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office for help applying.
After your application is reviewed, the SSA will mail a letter that confirms your Extra Help status and details how much assistance you’ll receive. Once approved, you may enroll in a Medicare Part D plan that accepts the subsidy.
What Extra Help Can Cover
If approved for full or partial Extra Help, you may receive reductions or removals of these costs:
- Monthly Medicare Part D premiums (may be reduced or paid entirely for some beneficiaries)
- Annual Part D deductibles
- Prescription copayments or coinsurance (often substantially reduced)
These savings make it far easier to afford long-term medication regimens and manage chronic conditions without skipping doses to save money.
Speak to a Licensed Sales Agent
If you want help understanding how Extra Help interacts with Medicare Advantage or Part D plans, a licensed sales agent can explain your options and local plan availability. Senior Healthcare Advisors LLC represents Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO, PFFS) and stand-alone Part D plans. Benefits and availability vary by carrier and county—enrollment depends on plan contract renewal.
Important Notes & Disclaimer
Disclaimer: Senior Healthcare Advisors LLC is not connected with or endorsed by any government entity. This page provides general informational content about Medicare Extra Help (LIS) and does not offer every plan available in your area. For official guidance, contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
Senior Healthcare Advisors LLC represents Medicare Advantage [HMO, PPO, and PFFS] organizations [and stand-alone PDP prescription drug plans] that have a Medicare contract. Enrollment depends on the plan’s contract renewal. Not all plans offer all of these benefits. Benefits may vary by carrier and location. Limitations and exclusions may apply.
Senior Healthcare Advisors LLC is not connected with or endorsed by any government entity.