General Information on the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) or "Extra Help" for your Prescription Drugs

Medicare beneficiaries who have limited income and resources may qualify for extra help to pay for prescription drugs costs. This low-income subsidy from Medicare provides financial assistance for beneficiaries who have limited income and resources. Those who are eligible for this low-income subsidy will get help paying for their monthly premium, yearly deductible, prescription coinsurance and copayments and no gap in coverage.

Some people are automatically eligible for the low-income subsidy. Those include people who are: full benefit dual eligibles; SSI recipients with Medicare; Medicare Savings Programs participants.

Some people must apply through the Social Security Administration. This includes Medicare beneficiaries with income below 150% Fixed Poverty Level. (See the table below for income and asset eligibility information)

Generally, dual eligibles and others deemed eligible for low-income subsidy pay no Part D plan premiums or deductibles, but pay $1.15 or $2.65 for generic drugs and $3.50 or $6.60 for brand-name drugs, depending on their income.

Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance, often people who do not believe they can qualify for assistance, do. Click here for more information on the Low Income Subsidy.

Medicare beneficiaries may also be eligible for prescription assistance through Rx For Oklahoma.  For more information on Rx For Oklahoma click here or call 1-877-794-6552.

Part D Extra Help Eligibility

Full Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)/Extra Help 2013

Partial Low-Income Subsidy (LIS)/Extra Help 2013

Resources
Medicare and You Handbook  Medicare Premiums, Deductibles and Copayments for 2013  Oklahoma Medicare Supplement Insurance Buying Guide  Oklahoma's Long-Term Care Insurance Shopper's Guide 2010 Have You Reached the Donut Hole in your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan?