How to Get Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs.

For many older adults, prescription drug costs can be a significant monthly expense. Thankfully, the Medicare Extra Help program—also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)—continues in 2025 to provide crucial financial relief for those with limited income and resources.

What Is Extra Help?

Extra Help is a federal program that reduces or eliminates out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. In 2025, beneficiaries who qualify may receive:

• $0 monthly premiums and deductibles (if enrolled in a basic plan)

• $4.90 copay for generic drugs

• $12.15 copay for brand-name drugs 1

Some individuals may pay even less depending on their income level or if they receive Medicaid or other assistance.

Who Qualifies in 2025?

You may automatically qualify if you:

• Receive full Medicaid coverage

• Get help from your state to pay Medicare Part B premiums (via a Medicare Savings Program)

• Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits 2

If you do not automatically qualify, you can still apply. For 2025, the income and asset limits are:

• Individual: Income below $1,976/month and assets under $17,600

• Couple: Income below $2,664/month and assets under $35,130 1

These limits include up to $1,500 per person for burial expenses counted as income/resources.

How to Apply

You can apply for Extra Help at any time—before or after enrolling in a Part D plan. Here is how:

• Online: Visit the Apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help program | SSA page

• By phone: Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)

• In person: Schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office

Why It Matters

Extra Help can save beneficiaries thousands of dollars annually. It also protects against the Part D late enrollment penalty and ensures access to essential medications without financial strain. 2

1 https://insurance.ohio.gov/consumers/medicare/medicare-part-d-extra-help-program#WhatIsTheExtraHelpProgram

2 www.medicare.com