Getting started.
Who this helps
People with Medicare may qualify if their income and resources are below the 2026 limits: $23,940 in income and $18,090 in resources for an individual, or $32,460 in income and $36,100 in resources for a married couple. People with full-benefit Medicaid, state help paying Part B premiums through a Medicare Savings Program, or SSI qualify automatically.
How to get started
If you get Extra Help automatically, Medicare mails you a notice. If you do not already have a drug plan, Medicare enrolls you in one and sends you the plan details.
Check automatic eligibility.
You get Extra Help automatically if you receive full-benefit Medicaid, state help paying Part B premiums through a Medicare Savings Program, or SSI.
Apply online.
Use Social Security’s online application for Extra Help.
Set an appointment.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and tell the representative you want an appointment to apply for Extra Help.
How they can help.
Social Security takes applications for Extra Help. It can help pay drug plan premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. You can apply before or after joining a drug plan.
- Help paying drug plan premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments
- No Part D late enrollment penalty while you get Extra Help
- Automatic enrollment in a drug plan if you qualify and do not already have one
- Free help applying from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
A few questions before you go.
Gather bank statements and tax returns, IRA or 401(k) balances, and statements for pensions, Veterans’ benefits, annuities, or Railroad Retirement Board benefits. Gather these for yourself and your spouse.
- Could I qualify automatically?
- What financial records should I gather?
- Can I apply before I choose a drug plan?
- What happens after I qualify?