Medicare beneficiaries can qualify for Extra Help with their Medicare prescription drug plan costs. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $5000 per year.
To qualify for Extra Help:
- You must reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia;
- Your resources must be limited to $14,790 for an individual or $29,520 for a married couple living together. Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks and bonds. We do not count your home, car, or any life insurance policy as resources; and your annual income must be limited to $19,320 for an individual or $26,130 for a married couple living together. Even if your annual income is higher, you still may be able to get some help.
Some examples where you may have higher income and still qualify for Extra Help include if you or your spouse:
- Support other family members who live with you;
- Have earnings from work; or
- Live in Alaska or Hawaii.
Social Security has an easy–to–use online application that you can help complete for your love one. In fact, anyone — family members, friends and caregivers — can help complete an application.
Eligible beneficiaries can also apply by phone at 1–800–772–1213 (TTY 1–800–325–0778). Or go to the nearest local Social Security office.