Who Should Complete the Application For Extra Help With Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs?
1) Is your income per month below $1,508 (single) or $2,030 (couple)?
2) Do you have Assets less than $13,820 (single) or $24,600 (couple)?
** If the answer is yes to both questions, then follow the instructions below. **
Apply for Extra Help
Applying for Extra Help can be done on line at medicare.gov or by calling Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048) Or you may call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.
Click by Click instructions:
medicare.gov -> In the search menu at the top right of the page search -> Apply for Extra Help -> Click on "I need or get Extra Help" -> Apply for Extra Help -> Scroll to bottom of page -> Click "Apply Now"
You should complete this application for Extra Help on the Internet if:
-You have Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and/or Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance); and
-You live in one of the 50 States or the District of Columbia; and
-Your combined savings, investments, and real estate are not worth more than $27,600, if you are married and living with your spouse, or $13,820 if you are not currently married or not living with your spouse.
-(Do NOT count your home, vehicles, personal possessions, life insurance, burial plots, irrevocable burial contracts or back payments from Social Security or SSI.) If you have more than those amounts, you may not qualify for the extra help. However, you can still enroll in an approved Medicare prescription drug plan for coverage.
-Your average monthly income can not be more than $1,507 an individual or $2,030 for a married couple living together.
-There are some examples where your income may be higher and you can still get Extra Help.
EXCEPTION: Even if you meet these conditions, DO NOT complete this application if you have Medicare and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicare and Medicaid because you automatically will get the extra help.
When you have Extra Help you pay no more than the Low Income Subsidy (LIS) drug coverage cost limit. In 2017, costs are as follows for 48 States + DC:
Full LIS Extra Help:
Copay: $1.20 generic / $3.70 brand
Catastrophic Copay: $0
Partial LIS Extra Help
Copay: 15%
Catastrophic Copay: $3.30 generic / $8.25 brand
Annual Deductible: $82
*Monthly Premium may apply
These qualifications and applications can be tedious. Calling or meeting with an agent will insure you have done everything you can to make the right choice and get help.
Book your meeting:
Bill Gay: 386-846-4190
bill@suncoastlegacyadvisors.com
Kaitlyn Stafford: 386-957-7851
kaitlyn@suncoastlegacyadvisors.com