Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs (Low-Income Subsidy)

What this program is, in plain English

Extra Help is a federal program run by Social Security. It is also called the Low-Income Subsidy, or LIS. If you get it, you pay no Part D premium for a basic plan, no deductible, and only a small copay for each prescription. There is no coverage gap. You apply directly with Social Security online, by phone, or at an office. If you already have Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, or a Medicare Savings Program, you are enrolled automatically and do not need to apply.

What you actually get

Estimated to be worth about $6,200 a year in prescription drug help. Removes the Part D premium and deductible and caps copays at a few dollars per prescription.

Who qualifies

• Income limit: The federal limit is 150% of the poverty level — about $1,995 a month for one person, or $2,705 a month for two, under the 2026 guidelines. Some states set higher limits. Confirm with your state at the number below. Posted effective 2026-01-13. Source: 2026 HHS Poverty Guidelines (Federal Register) Close to the line? Apply anyway — some income doesn't count toward these limits.
• There is a limit on countable savings and other resources, and it changes each year. We do not publish a figure we could not read off an official page — ask Social Security for the current limit when you apply, and apply even if you think you are close to it.

What to have ready

• Social Security number
• Bank account balances
• Statements for stocks, bonds, or retirement accounts
• Income information for you and your spouse

How to apply

This program is run by Social Security Administration. Most decisions take Usually a few weeks; you get a written decision by mail.