The Part D Extra Help Program is a great resource for those who have limited income and resources. This means if you need some extra assistance with your Part D prescription drug plan, this program is definitely something to consider.

Here’s what you can expect with the Part D Extra Help Program.

Qualifying For Extra Help

To qualify for this program as a single individual, your monthly income can’t exceed $1,630 as of 2021. However, if you are married, then you and your spouse’s monthly income together can’t exceed $2,198. Your assets must also be below a certain limit. However, it is possible to qualify for Extra Help even if your income or assets are above the preferred limit.

Another way to qualify for the Extra Help Program is if you’re enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income. In fact, being enrolled in one of these will automatically qualify you for the Extra Help Program.

Coverage

With the Part D Extra Help Program, you can get help and coverage for some of your Part D plan costs. These costs can include coinsurance, deductibles, premiums, and copayments. Other benefits included with this program are:

• Lowering prescription drug costs
• Getting rid of a Part D late enrollment penalty if you have one
• Granting you a Special Enrollment Period that is once per calendar quarter (this enrollment period will be during the first nine months of the year so you can enroll in Part D or switch to a different plan)

Now, with this program, there is such a thing called full Extra Help and partial Extra Help. For those who meet the income and asset requirements, there is a good chance that you will qualify for full Extra Help. If you have a higher income, you might qualify for partial Extra Help. 

With partial, you’ll pay reduced premiums, copayments, and deductibles. You also won’t have to cover any more than 15% of your prescription drug costs that are listed on your Part D plan’s formulary.

Regardless if you qualify for full or partial Extra Help, the benefits of this program are great! However, do keep in mind that this program is not here to replace your Part D plan. This program is just meant to help you with the costs of your plan and prescriptions. You will still need to be enrolled in Part D to keep Extra Help assistance.

Need Help?

At Game Changing Benefits, we understand how important it is that you get the coverage you need. That’s why our Medicare experts are here to find a Part D plan that works for you. And, if you need more information about the Part D Extra Help Program, we’ve got your back, too.

Give us a call today at 972-331-1060​ to learn more about what we can do for you!