A: The "Extra Help" program helps people on Medicare pay for their Part D prescriptions if they meet certain financial guidelines. People who receive this assistance typically don't have to pay a monthly premium. Their copays will be $3.30 or less for generic and $8.25 for brand name drugs.
The program is available to people who make $1,528 or less each month and have savings of $13,820 or less. If you're married and living together, it's $2,050 per month and $27,600 in savings. You'll need to add the amount of your Part B premium to your income (that was your income before the federal government helped themselves to it). The house you live in and the car that you drive are not counted as savings.
The Social Security Administration administers the Extra Help program. You can apply online through
www.ssa.gov or call their toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 for more information. THe State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) at 1-877-801-0044 will submit an application on your behalf as well.