What is Extra Help?
Extra Help — also called the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) — is a Medicare program that helps qualifying people pay Part D prescription drug costs. You do not have to be on Medicaid to apply.
What Extra Help pays in 2026
| Cost | 2026 Extra Help amount |
|---|---|
| Plan premium | $0 for the benchmark coverage level |
| Plan deductible | $0 |
| Covered generic drug | Up to $5.10 |
| Covered brand-name drug | Up to $12.65 |
| After qualifying drug costs reach $2,100 | $0 for each covered drug |
Could you qualify?
Eligibility is based on income and resources, and the limits can change each year. Medicare publishes the current limits and notes that some circumstances can allow eligibility even when income is above the basic figure. Don't disqualify yourself without checking.
What counts as a resource?
Resources can include money in checking or savings accounts, stocks, bonds and certain other assets. Your primary home, one vehicle, personal possessions and certain burial-related resources generally are not counted for Extra Help.
You may qualify automatically
People with full Medicaid, help from a Medicare Savings Program, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) generally get Extra Help automatically. Medicare sends a notice explaining the level of help.
Extra Help, Medicaid and Medicare Savings Programs are different
| Program | Main purpose |
|---|---|
| Extra Help / LIS | Reduces Medicare Part D prescription costs. |
| Medicare Savings Programs | Can help with Medicare premiums and, depending on the program, other Medicare cost sharing. |
| Medicaid | Federal-state health coverage/assistance with eligibility and benefits determined under state rules. |
How to apply
You can apply for Extra Help through Social Security. You can also get free application help from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
2026 cost-sharing figures: Medicare.gov, Help with drug costs. Eligibility limits change over time; use the official application/current limits rather than relying on an older printed figure.
Still have questions?
Medicare is personal. If you want help understanding how these rules fit your situation, Mike & Tracy can walk through it with you. There is no additional cost for our assistance.