The Medicare Low-Income Subsidy (Extra Help) program helps eligible beneficiaries reduce prescription drug expenses — including premiums, deductibles, and copayments.
Our agents assist with eligibility screening and enrollment guidance.
Extra Help (LIS) Eligibility Guide
Medicare Part D Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) — also called Extra Help — helps people with limited income and resources pay lower costs for Medicare prescription drug coverage. It can cover premiums, deductibles, and copays, and is available to most Medicare beneficiaries who meet income and resource limits. (Source: SSA.gov)
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Entitled to Medicare Part A, Part B, or both
- Reside in one of the 50 states or Washington, D.C.
- Not currently incarcerated
- Household income below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level
- Resources within the specified limits
- File with the SSA or your State Medicaid Agency, or be deemed eligible automatically
Income & Resource Limits
- Income limit: up to 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (slightly higher in Alaska and Hawaii)
- Resource limit: generally $1,300 for an individual, $2,600 for a couple — your home and primary vehicle don’t count
- Limits are based on Federal Poverty Guidelines, updated annually by HHS
Automatic Enrollment
You may be auto-enrolled if you:
- Receive full Medicaid coverage
- Are enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program (MSP)
- Receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
What You Could Save in 2026
If you qualify, you may pay:
- No premiums for your drug plan
- No deductibles
- Up to $12.65 per brand-name drug ($5.10 per generic)
- No out-of-pocket drug costs once you reach the annual limit
How to Apply
- Apply any time, before or after enrolling in Part D
- Apply online at Medicare.gov or call 1‑800‑772‑1213
- Have bank statements, tax returns, and retirement account balances ready
Special Transition Program (LI NET)
If you qualify but have no drug coverage yet, LI NET can bridge the gap:
- Temporary — usually 1 to 2 months while you enroll in a permanent Part D plan
- Generally automatic if you qualify for Extra Help or Medicaid and aren’t in a plan yet
- At the pharmacy? Show your Medicaid or Extra Help documentation — pharmacists can often process it under LI NET on the spot
All Solution Plus Tip: Your eligibility is reviewed each year. If your income or resources change, you may need to update your information or reapply for benefits.
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