Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy – LIS)
xtra Help, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), is a federal program that assists eligible individuals with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs. The program is administered by the Social Security Administration in coordination with Medicare.
What Extra Help Covers
Extra Help may reduce or eliminate certain Medicare Part D expenses, including monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription drug cost-sharing amounts. The level of assistance depends on verified income and resource limits established under federal guidelines.
Eligibility Determination
Eligibility for Extra Help is based on income and resource criteria defined by federal regulations. Applications are typically submitted through the Social Security Administration or may be determined automatically for individuals who qualify for certain Medicare Savings Programs or full Medicaid benefits.
Automatic Qualification
Some individuals may automatically qualify for Extra Help if they receive full Medicaid benefits, participate in a Medicare Savings Program, or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Automatic eligibility status is determined through government data matching processes.
Enrollment and Redetermination
Eligibility for Extra Help may be reviewed periodically to ensure continued qualification. Changes in income or resource status may affect the level of assistance provided.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and is based on publicly available guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It has not been reviewed or endorsed by Medicare, CMS, or any federal agency. This content does not constitute plan-specific advice. For individual coverage questions, please consult a licensed insurance professional.