I'm a low-income senior who can't afford my prescription drugs even with Medicare Part D. What specific assistance programs should I apply for?

Question

Mark Cunningham · Accepted Answer

As a low-income senior, it can be challenging to afford prescription drugs, even with Medicare Part D. However, various assistance programs are available to help alleviate this burden. This document provides a comprehensive guide to specific assistance programs you can apply for to receive the help you need.
1. Extra Help from Medicare
To qualify for Extra Help, you must:
•	Be enrolled in Medicare Part D
•	Have an income below 150% of the federal poverty level
•	Have limited financial resources
How to Apply
You can apply for Extra Help through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, by calling SSA, or by visiting your local SSA office.
2. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)
Eligibility requirements for SPAPs differ depending on the state, but they generally include:
•	Residency in the state
•	Enrollment in Medicare Part D
•	Meeting specific income and resource limits
How to Apply
To find out if your state has a SPAP and how to apply, visit the Medicare website or contact your state's Department of Health Services. - https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/drug-costs
3. Pharmaceutical Company Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)
Each pharmaceutical company has its own eligibility requirements, but they generally include:
•	Having no insurance coverage or limited coverage for the medication
•	Meeting specific income limits
4. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. Medicaid also offers benefits not normally covered by Medicare, including prescription drugs.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility for Medicaid varies by state, but typically includes:
•	Having a low income
•	Meeting specific resource limits
How to Apply
To apply for Medicaid, contact your state’s Medicaid office or visit their website.

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

There are various levels of "Extra Help" that you can explore with Social Security. Its based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) and they determine what level of extra help you qualify for.

Mike Alexander · Answer

Apply for extra help and Lis (low income subsidy) thru SsA or medicare.gov. a good advisor will assist you

William Lawler · Answer

This answer is provided in a video format. Watch the agent's video response here: https://medicareagentshub.com/questions/low-income-prescription-drug-assistance-programs#william-lawler

Larry Dalton · Answer

There is assistance to help those with difficulty meeting their financial needs. I advise seeking extra help through the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) and Medicare Savings programs. Although these programs may not cover one hundred percent of your drug costs, they can help offset expenses. You can also check with the State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program, known as SPAP, in Oklahoma or Texas, which offers additional help with drug costs. To sign up for your LIS, low-income subsidy program, I recommend seeking assistance at the Department of Human Services, which manages the state Medicaid programs. You can also apply through the Social Security Administration. If you are on Medicaid or SSI when you sign up for Medicare, you will automatically be enrolled in this Medicare Savings Program.

Answered by Larry Dalton on May 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in OK & TX

Answered by Larry Dalton Medicare Insurance Agent

Ann Sanfelippo · Answer

Start with Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) through the Social Security Administration — it lowers your Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays. If your income is very limited, apply for Medicaid, which can cover prescriptions and often qualifies you for Extra Help automatically. You should also look into Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI), which help pay Medicare costs and trigger Extra Help eligibility.

If available in your state, State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) can provide additional drug cost support.

Tony Capraro III · Answer

I'd refer you to:  Medicare.gov    Those folks are wonderful and know how to guide and help folks!

Christy Jones · Answer

You should apply with Social Security for a program called extra help. Extra help is also referred to as low income subsidy.

Justin Doherty · Answer

I always recommend reaching out to your local assistance office to see what they might be able to offer you. Medicare Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy) is definitely a program I would recommend you look into. Depending on your state, you may have additional programs that you may qualify for. Finding a good agent will be your easiest route to finding these programs and getting enrolled if you're eligible.

Answered by Justin Doherty on September 26, 2025

Broker Licensed in PA, CO, CT & 11 other states

Answered by Justin Doherty Medicare Insurance Agent

Tasha Riggs · Answer

You should go to SSA website and apply for part D Extra Help program. 
You will need bank statements and tax return information and any retirement benefits to see if you qualify. If you want to talk to someone at Social Security you can contact them.
You can even look at Medicare's website and research Medicare part D extra help. I would also consider looking at LIS : Limited income subsidy. It may help with copays and premiums

Kerwyn Jones · Answer

1. LIS//Extra Help. A federal program for Low Income Medicare recipients. 

2. Your State Medicaid program. Its called different names in different states.

Steven Whetstine · Answer

There are multiple ways to address prescription drug costs.  

First, you can see if you qualify for "Extra Help."  You can visit Medicare.gov/extra help to learn more about the program or call 1-800-MEDICARE.

If you qualify, this can reduce or eliminate your Part D premiums, deductibles, copays, and coinsurance.

You can use prescription discount cards.  This includes Clever Rx and Good Rx, and many retail areas offer programs such as Kroger and Walmart with their own savings programs.  

State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs can also help with reducing premiums or copays.  You can contact your local SHIP (State Health Insurance Program) and talk to a counselor or Medicaid office to check on eligibility and also possible receive enrollment assistance.

Drug Manufacturers sometimes have programs of their own to provide assistance.  You can see if the drug manufacturer offers a patient assistance program to help cover the costs of the medications.

You can check the Health Resources and Services Administration website.  You can check to see if there is a Federally Qualified Health Center near you.  Federal Qualified Health Center pharmacies offer medications at reduced prices under the federal 340B program.

In addition, there are foundation grants available in some cases.  PAN Foundation, Health Well, Patient Services Inc, Cancer Care, NORD, Patient Advocate Foundation, Good Days, LLS and more offer grants for disease specific conditions.  There are often chronic illness funds within these nonprofit and charitable foundations that can assist with prescription costs, and some may help with premiums and potentially travel costs.

Finally, one thing to consider is checking into the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan with your prescription drug coverage.  The insurance industry also calls it MP3, and it allows you to spread your costs over the year with capped costs instead of all at once.

Daniel Maisel · Answer

Hello, I have glad to be off help. 
You ate l are not alone., others must deal with the same situation. 
A sporadic program you may wish to look into is called:
Extra Help/LIS

THIS IS A SPECIAL PROGRAM FOR A PERSON WITH LOW-INCOME AS YOU DESCRIBED. 

I hope this was of help.  Best wished Aniel Maisel Insurance - Medicare Agency.

Sandy Johnson · Answer

You can apply for your State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program, as well as State Medicaid Programs for assistance with your prescriptions

Kate Spilsbury · Answer

You may qualify for several programs designed to help with medication costs. The first is Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) through Social Security, which can lower or eliminate your Part D premium, deductible, and copays. You can also check if you qualify for Medicare Savings Programs through your state, which can help pay your Part B premium and sometimes other costs.

In addition, many drug manufacturers and nonprofit organizations offer patient assistance programs or grants that can help cover expensive prescriptions. My team regularly helps people find these resources, and you can also explore more options and links. Contact me.

Eddie Tune · Answer

I need specific information for your income? you could be eligible for a dual special needs plan were the is no cost for meds?

contact me, I would be glad to help you

thanks Eddie

Jeffrey Jon · Answer

You can apply for low income subsidy, apply directly to the pharmaceutical company for their drug programs or ask you pharmacy if there is any program they may be able to help you with. If you haven’t applied for Medicaid, you may consider that depending upon your finances.

Answered by Jeffrey Jon on May 18, 2026

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Jeffrey Jon Medicare Insurance Agent

Annelies Van Schie · Answer

You can look into applying to the following programs:

1) Extra help through Social Security. Those programs have the potential to lower your drug cost, and potentially also pay for your Medicare Part B premium.

And

2) Apply for state Medicaid benefits which potentially could cover for all your medical expenses that Medicare does not cover.

Donna Lueders · Answer

You can apply for Extra Help at Medicare.gov.  If accepted, it would help reduce your medication expenses.  The application is relatively simple to complete and is income based.

Kim Cotten · Answer

There is Medicare extra Help (LIS). This program assists individuals with limited income and resources in paying for Medicare Part D Prescription drug coverage.

Danny Radisewitz · Answer

I loved the short answer to this question Apply for LIS/Extra Help! Its easy to do, it doesn't take long and if you are not eligible "NO BIG DEAL"! You don't need to go to any government office and set a future appointment. Just APPLY! You won't regret it!

Answered by Danny Radisewitz on April 7, 2025

Broker Licensed in SD, IA, MN & ND

Answered by Danny Radisewitz Medicare Insurance Agent

Angela Ellington · Answer

The first thing that I recommend is applying for Extra Help through Social Security. If you do not qualify for that program, you may save by using GoodRx or Optum Perks which offer coupons that may be more affordable than using your Part D coverage. I have also referred some of my clients to fill certain prescription from the Canadian Med Store. Lastly, Part D has a catastrophic limit of $2000 in 2025 and they have started a payment plan that's called M3P that's spreads your copays out through the rest of the year in the event that a drug costs more than $600 to fill due to the deductible or coinsurance having a high cost up front.

Answered by Angela Ellington on April 21, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AZ, FL & 9 other states

Answered by Angela Ellington Medicare Insurance Agent

Ted Wallus · Answer

As a low-income senior, you should apply to the Medicare Savings Program. 

By applying to that program, you will automatically be checked for qualifying for Extra Help, the main Prescription Drug discount program for Seniors.

By applying to the Medicare Savings Program at the start, if you qualify for additional benefits, like having co-pays and your Part B deductible paid for they will notify you.

I hope this helps!

Anthony Lucero · Answer

We can apply for Low Income Subsidy that helps with your Part D premium, deductible and copays. There are also additional programs that help with your Part B premiums. Once we look at your income I would let you know if there are additional savings programs for Medicare beneficiaries.

Answered by Anthony Lucero on February 26, 2026

Broker Licensed in CO, CA & FL

Answered by Anthony Lucero Medicare Insurance Agent

Mel Brickman · Answer

Income is a determinate of the eligibility for various assistance programs on both the Federal and State levels. You should first check in with the Social Security Administration to confirm the income level that is on file for you at the federal level. If it is accurate and you have not been informed of your eligibility for the Extra Help program, then I would move on the your states Pharmacutical Assistance Programs and Medicaid assistance programs, which go under different names and have varying guidelines. Some states have specific agencies that could help you with this process.

Answered by Mel Brickman on April 21, 2025

Agent Licensed in CT

Answered by Mel Brickman Medicare Insurance Agent

Sonya Sims · Answer

You can apply for Extra help which is available to low-income Medicare recipients to help with prescription cost. Which can be applied for thru the social security office or online at ssa.gov. You can also apply for State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs or Pharmaceutical Company Patient Assistance Programs. Those are some really great resources to help with prescription drug cost.

Answered by Sonya Sims on September 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AR & 33 other states

Answered by Sonya Sims Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Zurbuch, MBA · Answer

Low Income Subsidy program, also referred to as Extra Help, through Social Security is 1 way to get there. You can contact them
State Pharmaceutical programs.

Your State's Medicaid you could contact.
Contact your Broker to assist you in when you can go to another Medicare Advantage Policy with Part D included or another Part D Policy. 

Plans are insured or covered by a Medicare Advantage (HMO, PPO and PFFS) organization with a Medicare contract and/or a Medicare-approved Part D sponsor. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Leslie Kaz · Answer

Medicare’s Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy, State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs), Medicaid, Pharmaceutical Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs),

Michael Pyers · Answer

Apply for extra help through the Social Security office.  It is based on your income and could result in significant savings for you!

Yasmery Vargas · Answer

You may be eligible for "extra help" through social security.  It is a pharmaceutical program that helps cover the cost of your prescriptions. Refer to ssa.gov for more information.  

You can also apply for state insurance with your local welfare office. Depending on state they can provide additional resources for local organizations that provide additional services based on eligibility.

James Stang · Answer

You can apply for Low Income Subsidy assistance (LIS), also called Extra Help, from the Social Security website. LIS gives you assistance with co-pays for medications.

Dana Dane · Answer

Please contact Medicaid as soon as possible and make an appointment to see if you qualify. There may be an office in your area. Some hospitals offer financial assistance if you are low income but do not qualify for Medicaid.

Answered by Dana Dane on April 14, 2025

Agent Licensed in OR, AZ, CA & 6 other states

Answered by Dana Dane Medicare Insurance Agent

Chad Watkins · Answer

Seniors with low income should look into these programs:
PAAD	- Pharmaceutical Assistance for the Aged or Disabled  
HAAD	- Hearing Aid Assistance for the Aged or Disabled
Senior Gold  
You can contact me

Richard Kozlowski · Answer

You should apply for "Extra Help" or a State Pharmaceutical Assistance program if one is available in your area

Happy to help you complete

Rich Kozlowski
Contact me.

Kathy Detweiler · Answer

You can apply for LIS also known as Extra Help. That will lower your drug costs significantly. You apply online. Contact an agent and they can help you apply.

Harold Randolph · Answer

Low income subsidies are available if your income is below certain thresholds. Contact a broker and have them help you through the process and answer any specific questions you may have. 

Hrandolph

Darlene Cerezo Swaffar · Answer

Call Social Security and ask to apply for "Extra Help for Medicare prescription drug" costs. Based on your income, Social Security can determine if you qualify for extra help. The process will take 2-4 weeks. If you qualify then your copays for medications will be less.

Answered by Darlene Cerezo Swaffar on October 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Darlene Cerezo Swaffar Medicare Insurance Agent

Tammie Rutledge · Answer

You may be eligible for Extra Help, also known as Low income subsidy from Social Security. 
You can apply online here: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help

Deborah Zanelotti · Answer

Most states have prescription assistance, for example, Maryland has a program called SPDAP, Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program.  It will automatically enroll you into the "Extra Help" program, if you qualify.  You can go to your states website and type "Medicare" in search and follow the prompts from there.  You can also see if you qualify for help if you follow this link to Medicare... 
 https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help

Stacie Singleton · Answer

Applying for Low Income Subsidy through the state is a great way to get help paying for your prescription drugs. A licensed agent should be able to help you find the forms you need.

Sheri Wright · Answer

If you are located in a state that has a Medicare Savings Program, your prescription costs can be significantly reduced; this is, of course is only dependent upon your income and not assets. You can go to your local Department of Social Services and fill out a quick application. You will get an answer within 7-10 business days if you qualify. This is not Medicaid that reviews assets, but you may get a Medicaid card that is specific to Medicare to help with Rx costs.

Answered by Sheri Wright on October 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in CT, GA, MA & NJ, NY, TX & VA

Answered by Sheri Wright Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

If you have low income and are struggling to afford prescription drugs despite having Medicare Part D, you should apply for the Extra Help program, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS). This program helps individuals with limited income and resources lower their out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs. 
Here's a more detailed breakdown of how to get help:
1. Apply for Extra Help:
You can apply for Extra Help through the Social Security Administration (SSA). You can apply online at SSA.gov/extrahelp or at your local Social Security office. 
2. Eligibility:
To be eligible, you typically need to have limited income and resources. You may also qualify if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. 
3. What Extra Help Covers:
Extra Help can help with your Part D drug plan premiums, deductibles, and copayments, reducing your out-of-pocket costs. 
4. New York State Assistance:
In New York, you can also look into the State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program (SPAP), which provides assistance for prescription drugs to those with low incomes. 
5. State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP):
You can contact your local SHIP to get free, non-biased assistance with understanding and applying for Medicare and related programs, including Extra Help. State Health Insurance Assistance Programs 
6. Patient Assistance Programs:
Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs that can help you get your medications for free or at a reduced cost. You can find information about these programs through RxAssist.org or NeedyMeds. 
To summarize:
Apply for Extra Help through the Social Security Administration.
Check if you qualify for SPAP or other state-specific programs.
Reach out to your local SHIP for assistance.
Explore patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

For a low-income senior struggling with prescription costs despite Medicare Part D, the main assistance programs to explore are Medicare's Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), also known as Extra Help and State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on July 24, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

Call social security and ask for the extra help program for prescription drug plans
You may also qualify for Medicaid with the states you live in

Mary Brown · Answer

If you’re a low-income senior struggling with prescription costs, you can apply for:
1.	Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy) – through Social Security or Medicare.gov, which can reduce or even eliminate your Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays.
2.	Medicaid – if you qualify based on income and resources, Medicaid can help pay for prescriptions, doctor visits, and other healthcare costs.

These programs can significantly lower out-of-pocket drug expenses and may also qualify you for other assistance benefits.

Meghan Blankenship · Answer

You should apply for the Medicare Part D Extra Help program (also called the Low‑Income Subsidy), and also look into state‑run Medicare Savings Programs and pharmaceutical assistance programs. These are the main ways low‑income seniors can reduce prescription drug costs.

Answered by Meghan Blankenship on December 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, MD & OH

Answered by Meghan Blankenship Medicare Insurance Agent

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

Medicare offers special Help. You need to apply on Medicare.gov. You can also see if your specific state offers help for Prescriptions.

Dean Chiapetto · Answer

If your income is low you need to speak with your Broker and have them explain the options you have with your Part D plan to stretch out payment or to apply for Extra Help from the Government, alson know as Limited Income Subsidy. You can go online to Medicare.gov to fill out the form or call your local Social Security Office and request a form. 
Contact a Local Broker.
Brokers Make a Difference.

Jennifer Kalbach · Answer

You should be applying for a DSNP (dual eligibility) first you need to get with your local Medicaid office to see if you qualify and they will enroll you in Medicaid. Once you are enrolled, you would qualify for extra help. You can also check with your local resources to see if they have additional help to provide you.

Answered by Jennifer Kalbach on March 27, 2026

Agent Licensed in KY

Answered by Jennifer Kalbach Medicare Insurance Agent

Karen Ansell · Answer

You can apply for several programs.
Low Income Subsidy which is a program that helps pay your prescription plan premiums and your copays for your medications. You can apply on www.Medicare.gov or www.ssa.gov/extrahelp. The program does have income and asset levels.

You can also apply for assistance through the medication's pharmaceutical company.
Not all companies have assistance but many do. Your income and assets can be much higher than government programs. You can apply at www.assist.org or ther are other sites.

Also many of my clients use www.goodrx.com or a similar program to help lower the cost. You can also ask your current prescription plan for a lower tier adjustment.

Michael Kim · Answer

You should apply for state Medicaid for those who are below poverty level. This along with your Medicare and Medicaid, I would be able to enroll you into a Duel Complete Plan, just for people like yourself. All your copays on Medications and Medical services would be covered by the state.

Answered by Michael Kim on February 24, 2026

Agent Licensed in NV, AR, AZ & 18 other states

Answered by Michael Kim Medicare Insurance Agent

Mel Stevens · Answer

There are LIS, limited income options available.  LIS level one provides assistance with medication.  If you qualify for level 1, a prescription medication plan will not cost more than $12.68.  If you qualify for level 2 then you could actually get assistance with paying for Part B.   If you qualify for level 3 or full Medicaid / Medicare, then it unlocks Medicare plans that offer richer benefits that can help ease your financial situation. It's all income based and every state has different parameters and income limits.  If you think you may qualify, I've provided a link.  Just clink on the link and follow the qualification process. 
In Arizona for Example, if you make $23,475 dollars a year or less you may qualify for LIS Extra Help Level 1.

Andre Cabral · Answer

You can apply for L.I.S. (Low income subsidy) a.k.a. Extra help" in the SSA.Gov website;  you can also apply for Medicaid.
When you are approved for Medicaid and you have Medicare parts A & B, you are dual eligible for DSNP - dual special needs plans, which will pay for virtually everything, $0 co-pays back to back.

David Christian · Answer

This is a wonderful questions. You want to apply for Medicare Part D Extra help. It's also known as Low Income Subsidy. It is for those within what is considered the Federal Poverty Level. You can apply for on the Social Security Administration website here: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help.

Answered by David Christian on April 24, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA & TX

Answered by David Christian Medicare Insurance Agent

Adam Morillo · Answer

You can apply for Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) at ssa.gov/extrahelp or call social security or apply for Medicaid.

Patrick Stinson · Answer

You should check out the Extra Help program. Also known as Low Income Subsidy. (LIS) You can also check out to see if your state has any assistance programs.

Abigail Turner · Answer

This is true for so many on Medicare and one of the first things your agent should go over with you. Are there any specific programs you would qualify for and if so, help you apply. 

The main program to help with Medicare prescription drug costs is Extra Help, also known as low-income subsidy (or LIS). This program will dramatically lower the costs of your medications, both name brand and generics, putting a cap on your copays along with possible help towards plan premium costs and deductibles. Extra Help allows for a slightly higher income level than Medicaid (your state aid agency) allows for so you may still qualify for Extra Help even if you don't qualify for Medicaid. 

Medicaid is another program you can apply for that can go beyond prescription cost help and may also help pay your Medicare Part B premium and possibly even medical copays. Again, this is where a licensed agent is so helpful as they should know what questions to ask to determine eligibility and be able to help walk you through the application process.

Dennis Sullivan · Answer

You need to apply for a low-income subsidy also known as the Medicare Savings Program to alleviate costs with your prescriptions and possibly get your Part B paid for by the state.

Danielle Jimison · Answer

Extra Help Or sometimes referred to as Low-Income Subsidy ( LIS) You would apply through Social Security   https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help

Some states offer additional help with drug copays, premiums and coverage gaps.  State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs 

or If you take band name medications many drug companies offer Manufacturer Patient Assistance  Programs

Rick Balistreri · Answer

Your best option is to contact the programs available in your state or residence. Medicare Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) or State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs). You can apply online: https://www.ssa.gov/extrahelp or call Social Security

Answered by Rick Balistreri on May 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in MO, AZ, FL & 7 other states

Answered by Rick Balistreri Medicare Insurance Agent

Anthony Albano · Answer

LIS also known as extra help will provide assistance for people with low income
You may also qualify for Medicaid depending on your income.
You should get with a license agent like myself to determine which way to go

Samantha Jones · Answer

Depending on your state, you could have a state pharmaceutical assistance program and that is something you want to check through Google and you also want to make sure to apply for extra help which is through your social security department

Answered by Samantha Jones on April 13, 2026

Agent Licensed in Ky, AL, AR & 29 other states

Answered by Samantha Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Dominic Colonero · Answer

The absolute first program you should apply for is Medicare's Extra Help program, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS). This is a federal program that significantly lowers or eliminates your Part D prescription costs, including premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. You can apply through the Social Security Administration (SSA) online or by phone. 

Another option can be to apply for State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs), which offer further help with drug costs in many states, and Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs). Most major drug manufacturers have PAPs that provide their specific, expensive brand-name medications for free or at a deep discount to people with very limited income.

Christopher Stewart · Answer

For low-income individuals, applying for Medicare Extra-Help can be key! For those that do not qualify for LIS (Low Income Subsidy) there are other pharmaceutical assistance programs through prescription manufacturers (Astrazeneca and others) that can help lower the cost of the medications. And if that fails, we can look at State Pharmacy Assistance programs.

Answered by Christopher Stewart on May 12, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 6 other states

Answered by Christopher Stewart Medicare Insurance Agent

Deborah Lee · Answer

You should contact your local State office, such as ADRC, and schedule an appointment with them, and they will be able to tell you what programs you are eligible for. There are many programs available for assistance.

Answered by Deborah Lee on August 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in WI, FL, IA & MN

Answered by Deborah Lee Medicare Insurance Agent

David Schult · Answer

If you’re a low-income senior struggling with prescription costs, you can apply for:

1. Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy) – through Social Security or Medicare.gov, which can reduce or even eliminate your Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays.

2. Medicaid – if you qualify based on income and resources, Medicaid can help pay for prescriptions, doctor visits, and other healthcare costs.

These programs can significantly lower out-of-pocket drug expenses and may also qualify you for other assistance benefits.

Answered by Mary Brown on March 30, 2026

Broker Licensed in NJ, DE, FL & NC, OH, PA & TX

Answered by Mary Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Roseann Vandevender · Answer

I would suggest you contact Social Security to see if you qualify for the Limited Income Subsidy(LIS) program . Your prescriptions can be covered at 50%, 75% or 100% of costs depending on your qualifications . It’s always good to check all of your options!

Answered by Roseann Vandevender on December 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in OH, AZ, CO & TX

Answered by Roseann Vandevender Medicare Insurance Agent

Irma Lopez · Answer

I would recommend you contacting your state's Medicare office or visit your Social Security Administration Website to apply for the Extra Help Program. This program aims to substantially assist you with your prescription's drugs out of pocket costs.

Answered by Irma Lopez on September 15, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, FL, LA, MI & NE

Answered by Irma Lopez Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Pane · Answer

You can apply for a few things: Low-Income Subsidies or known as Extra Help through Social Security.
Second, you may be in a state that has a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program. 
Third there's the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P). M3P allows that the costs of prescription co-pays be spread over the calendar year. 
Finally, if you qualify based on income, you can apply for Medicaid in your state.

Lisa Schaad · Answer

This comes up a lot, and I know it can feel overwhelming when even Part D doesn’t make the meds affordable. The main programs I’d look at are Extra Help through Social Security, your state’s Medicare Savings Programs, and sometimes State Prescription Assistance if your state offers it. Many drug companies also have Patient Assistance Programs for folks who qualify.

If it were me, I’d start with Extra Help because it’s usually the quickest relief. Then check with your state Medicaid office about the Medicare Savings Programs. And don’t forget—your agent can walk you through applying so you don’t feel like you have to figure it all out on your own.

David Alelishvili · Answer

I completely understand how challenging it can be to find affordable options for prescription medications. The good news is, if you live in New York State, there are several programs available that work alongside Medicare Advantage plans—potentially saving you a substantial amount of money.

These programs are based primarily on income and assets, and many people qualify without even realizing it. Navigating the options can be confusing, which is why speaking with a knowledgeable, licensed health insurance expert is so important.

If you're in New York, I’d love to connect and provide a no-cost, personalized advice to help you get the coverage you deserve.

Yadira Son · Answer

That’s a very common concern, and there are programs that can help. The first one to apply for is Extra Help through Social Security — it can lower your prescription copays and sometimes your Part D premium. You should also check into your state’s Medicare Savings Program, which can help with Medicare costs if your income is limited. Even if you’re unsure you qualify, it’s worth applying. I’m happy to help point you in the right direction if you’d like.

Josh Vojtush · Answer

Your best options, in my opinion, are the MSPs offered through your state's Medicaid department, or Social Security and their "Extra Help" program.

Mark Enright · Answer

?  Extra Help is an income based plan for seniors offered by the federal government to help with prescription costs.  Medicaid (which differs from state to state) is a state plan that helps financially with medical and prescription costs.

Janet Sterling-Cameron · Answer

For low-income senior struggling to afford prescription drugs even with Medicare Part D, there are several assistance programs that can reduce or even eliminate your prescription drug expenses.

First, apply for Extra Help (also called the Low-Income Subsidy) through Social Security. This program lowers or eliminates your Part D premium, reduces deductibles, and cuts prescription copays.  

You can also apply for Medicaid through your state. If you qualify, Medicaid can work with Medicare to cover most drug costs and other medical expenses.  Other options to look into if you don’t qualify for full Medicaid is Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs), such as QMB, SLMB, or QI. These programs help pay Medicare premiums and sometimes deductibles and copays, freeing up money for prescriptions.

You can ask your doctor or pharmacist about pharmaceutical manufacturer patient assistance programs. Many drug companies offer free or low-cost medications for people with limited income.

Lastly, you can check State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) if your state offers one. These programs help cover Part D costs and copays.  Georgia does not have a traditional state-funded SPAP for Medicare beneficiaries.  Instead,  Georgia offers a Drug Card: A free, statewide program that helps uninsured and underinsured residents, as well as those with insurance, to cover non-covered medications.

Chris Neal · Answer

You can apply for state funded help through your local Social Security office. If approved it can help with the copayments for prescription drugs. That would be the best way to get some assistance with you costs.

Patricia Burgess · Answer

Extra Help is a program through Social Security that can help pay for your prescription costs. It's typically based on your income and assets. While applying for Extra Help, you can also apply for the Medicare Savings Program to see if you qualify for assistance for other medical costs.