I'm worried about affording my medications even with the 2025 changes. Are there additional assistance programs I should know about?

Question

Diana Garner · Accepted Answer

Even with the coverage gap being eliminated and a max of $2000 out-of-pocket being set, medications can still be costly.

Medicare Beneficiaries can:
1) Apply for the Low-income Subsidy (extra help) through Social Security 
2) Apply for the state-based program called the Medicare Savings Program
3) Apply for patient assistance programs offered by the drug manufacturers or non-profit organizations.

Gary Church · Answer

Here's a question: I'm worried about affording my medications. Even with the 2025 changes, are there additional assistance programs I should know about?

There is. And again, if you work with a licensed Medicare agent, he should be able to help you as far as determining what medications you need and what their classifications are. Under the drug plans, it is a five-year plan, and not all drug plans are equal. So it's very important to know your medications and what's in the formulary with that particular drug company.

But there are assistance programs out there and other resources. So sitting down with a licensed Medicare agent should be able to help you determine a doctor. But yes, when it comes to medications, some medications are very, very expensive. And hopefully, our government will start to do something to help reduce the cost, particularly for seniors who are on a fixed income and can't afford their medications.

So I hope that answers your question.

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

If you fall into certain income brackets, you would be eligible for what they call Extra Help. It would either pay part, or all of your medications, copays and other charges. You would check with Social Security to see if you qualify.

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer on April 16, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ & CA

Answered by Steve and Sue Brauer Medicare Insurance Agent

Daniel Brechin · Answer

When you speak with me I first review your needs and assets. I work with people that are very low income and and many that are not. I can help low income people with state programs that are here and will help them obtain Low Income Assistance.

Answered by Daniel Brechin on November 3, 2025

Agent Licensed in AL, FL, KY, MS & TN

Answered by Daniel Brechin Medicare Insurance Agent

William Lawler · Answer

Yes. Each state has a pharmaceutical assistance program. Contact your state pharmaceutical assistance program with questions.

Ann Sanfelippo · Answer

Yes — there are additional programs that can help lower medication costs beyond just your Medicare drug plan. The main one is Medicare’s “Extra Help” (also called the Low-Income Subsidy), which can dramatically reduce or even eliminate Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays if you meet income and resource limits, and many people qualify without realizing it. You can apply for Extra Help through Social Security or get free assistance through your local SHIP counselor. In some areas, state pharmaceutical assistance programs also offer help paying for drug costs, and manufacturer patient assistance programs may assist with specific medications if you meet financial criteria. Finally, comparing Part D plans each year during open enrollment can help you find one with lower overall prescription costs.

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo on December 18, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 14 other states

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo Medicare Insurance Agent

John Becker · Answer

For 2026, you can access additional medication assistance through Medicare’s "Extra Help" (Part D LIS) for low-income seniors, manufacturer patient assistance programs (PAPs), nonprofit co-pay foundations, and state-level pharmaceutical programs. These programs can significantly reduce costs for premiums, deductibles, and high-priced specialty drugs. 

Key additional assistance options:
Medicare Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy): If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for help with premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. In 2026, eligibility includes incomes up to 150% of the Federal Poverty Level.

Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs): Many pharmaceutical companies offer free or low-cost medications, especially for brand-name or specialty drugs. Search for your drug manufacturer's website for "patient assistance" or "copay card".

Nonprofit Copay Foundations: Organizations like NeedyMeds, RxHope, and Patient Advocate Foundation can help with out-of-pocket costs and provide emergency aid.

State-Level Programs: Some states offer their own programs, such as Wisconsin's SeniorCare Program, that provide extra savings.

Discount Cards: Utilize tools like SingleCare or NeedyMeds for lower prices, even if you have insurance.

Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): If eligible, using an HSA allows you to pay for medications with tax-free dollars. 

Contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for free, personalized counseling to apply for these programs.

Steven Litzsinger · Answer

Yes, there are programs specifically for beneficiaries that may need some "extra help". There are both state and federal programs that can provide additional assistance with covering the cost of medications.

Also, as of 2025, Medicare now offers a Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (MPPP) that will help balance your cost with equal payments over the 12 months. A great solution for people that are facing higher cost in months 1-3 of the year and then hitting their max out of pocket (catastrophic phase). 


Since the cost shares (co pays, coinsurance, deductibles), premiums, and formularies  change each year and can vary among plans and carriers, it is important to run your medications through each of the available plans within your market to ensure you are on the best and most cost effective Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug  or Part D- Stand alone Drug Plan for the upcoming year. 

In fact, when you work with a licensed Medicare Agent, they can provide you with your annual cost of medications and provide an outline of the you monthly cost, starting with the first fill staring January.

Carly Cusack · Answer

There are payment programs available through insurance carriers. They are called M3P programs. You can also look into help from your state.

Mike Odle · Answer

Low income subsidy may be available through the social security administration, but there are income and asset limit. 2025 income limits are approximately $23,475 (before expenses such as Part B) for a single individual and $31,725 for a married couple, while the asset limits are around $17,600 for an individual and $35,130 for a married couple.
If you are on a name brand drug consider contacting the manufacturer of the drug and see if they have any type of a special copay program for that particular drug. 
Lastly, consider a Medicare advantage plan. If you are already on one, review the drug coverage on the all the Medicare advantage plans that are available in your area. Many Medicare advantage plans do not have deductibles on prescriptions up through and including tier 3 name brand medications. This could lower out of pocket by up to $615 a year.

Mary Green · Answer

There are several different programs available to Medicare beneficiaries who need assistance with medication costs. One of the programs is called Extra Help, and offers income-based relief in the form of a subsidy. You can apply for this subsidy through your local Social Security office.

Another program is called a Patient Assistance Program, and is also income-based. These programs are available by applying through the pharmaceutical company producing the high priced medication. Just call the customer service number of the pharmaceutical company, or ask your physician to apply for you.

Medicare drug plans offer a payment plan option that allow you to spread your drugs costs over a 12 month payment plan to make it easier on people who might have to meet a large deductible at the beginning of the year..

Tammera Marrs · Answer

There are some Federal and State progams. Pharmacy programs, Discount programs, and Patient Assistance programs. So far my clients have been able to afford their prescriptions. Some clients have had help with one of the programs mentioned above. The out of pocket change of $2,000 for formulary covered prescriptions on the prescription drug plan (Plan D) has helped.

Answered by Tammera Marrs on May 1, 2025

Broker Licensed in KS

Answered by Tammera Marrs Medicare Insurance Agent

Tiffany Gladwell · Answer

2026 Medicare changes and options  are complicated and confusing , you should explore the  expanded Medicare Extra Help program (LIS) for income-based aid, plus State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs), nonprofit resources like NeedyMeds/RxHope, and pharmacy-specific discount programs, as these offer significant help for premiums, deductibles, and copays beyond the new drug cost caps.

A licensed and experienced Medicare / Medicaid Agent, like myself can help you navigate the options and help you sign up for No Cost !

Sabri Amara · Answer

Shopping your medications with a broker who will look at multiple insurance carriers and plans during the annual enrollment period is most ideal. Cost can vary drastically from one carrier to another. Yet sometimes costs can still be high even if you go with the lowest cost carrier for your prescriptions. Other than shopping coverage around if you qualify for the federal program known as Extra Help you should definitely apply. This will bring down the cost of all of your prescriptions not just one expensive prescription. Also most manufacturers have what is called manufacturer assistance program that you can apply for directly with each prescription manufacturer that may save you a lot of money

Answered by Sabri Amara on March 30, 2026

Broker Licensed in IN, AZ, FL & 13 other states

Answered by Sabri Amara Medicare Insurance Agent

Peter Joseph · Answer

Yes there are things you can do. You can apply thru social security for low income subsidy. You can also reach out to your insurance carrier to pay it over time (a period of a year). This doesn’t reduce your costs but there’s no interest and copays would be lower since they are spread out over 12 months. Please see me for more details.

Answered by Peter Joseph on April 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 36 other states

Answered by Peter Joseph Medicare Insurance Agent

Arsenio Sallie · Answer

It's understandable to be concerned about medication costs. Fortunately, there are several assistance programs that may help you:

1. **Medicare Extra Help**: This program assists with paying for your Medicare prescription drug plan costs. Eligibility depends on your income and resources.

2. **State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)**: Some states offer programs to help residents pay for prescription drugs. Check if your state has an SPAP and what the eligibility requirements are.

3. **Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs)**: Many pharmaceutical companies offer PAPs to provide free or low-cost medications to those who qualify. You can often find information on the company's website or through resources like NeedyMeds or RxAssist.

4. **Medicare Savings Programs**: These programs help pay for Medicare Part A and Part B premiums, and in some cases, may also cover deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.

5. **Nonprofit Organizations**: Organizations such as the National Council on Aging and the Partnership for Prescription Assistance can help you find resources and programs to assist with medication costs.

6. **Discount Cards**: Prescription discount cards, like GoodRx, can sometimes offer lower prices than insurance copays.

It's a good idea to review these options and see which ones you may qualify for. Additionally, speaking with a Medicare counselor or a social worker can provide more personalized guidance.

Andrew Zurbuch, MBA · Answer

Yes, in 2025 Medicare came out with programs through the Inflation Reduction Act regarding Medicare Part D. It eliminated the Coverage Gap part of Medicare Part D, also it put in a $2,000 maximum out of pocket for prescriptions costs for the Medicare Beneficiary for 2025. That amount is increased to $2,100 for 2026. Furthermore, Medicare began a new program for Medicare Beneficiaries called the Monthly Payment Program. This does not reduce Part D prescriptions costs it allows the Insured to budget their prescriptions out of pocket costs. The Insured needs to call their Insurance Company to enroll in the Monthly Payment Program.

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.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Steve Houchens · Answer

Depending on you financial situation you could possibly be eligible for LIS or low income subsidy or possible or help available and I feel it’s always worth checking for any extra help you qualify for.

Answered by Steve Houchens on June 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Yasmery Vargas · Answer

Yes. There are various programs through your local state that help with premium costs and reducing prescription costs. In Pennsylvania a good example is PACE/PACENET or Extra Help through social security. M3P Payment plan is also available.

Answered by Yasmery Vargas on May 15, 2025

Agent Licensed in PA

Answered by Yasmery Vargas Medicare Insurance Agent

James Stang · Answer

Yes. You can apply for Extra Help, called LIS (low-income subsidy) on the Social Security website. If you are accepted into the program, you will have your Rx costs reduced to nominal amounts.

Hannah Skinner · Answer

You can apply though Social Security for "Extra Help". This program can help get prescription costs down to a limited amount. You can find the application on Medicare.gov by searching "Extra Help".

Thomas Magnus, RHU · Answer

Here are some options for pharmaceutical financial assistance:
Patient Assistance Programs (PAPs): Many pharmaceutical companies, state programs, and nonprofits offer PAPs that can help lower the cost of medications for those who are uninsured or underinsured. 

1 Federal and State Programs: Financial assistance options are available from the federal government, state government, and nonprofit organizations to help with prescription medication costs. 

2 RxAssist: This platform provides information on various patient assistance programs run by pharmaceutical companies to help patients obtain free or low-cost medications. 

3 CMS Programs: Pharmaceutical manufacturers may sponsor programs that provide financial assistance or free medications to low-income individuals. 

4 Welvista: This organization offers a medication assistance pharmacy that can fill and deliver prescriptions at no cost to uninsured individuals.

Melanie Blackston · Answer

Yes, the insurance companies now offer a prescription payment plan program. You will need to reach out to the customer service department on the back of your insurance card to inquire about your options and more detailed information.

Answered by Melanie Blackston on August 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, GA & NC

Answered by Melanie Blackston Medicare Insurance Agent

Diana Salisbury · Answer

Yes, you can check to see if you qualify for Extra Help through Social Security, or apply for pharmaceutical assistance through the manufacture of the prescription.

Celeste McGrath · Answer

If you qualify for low income subsidy, that helps by reducing drug costs, or you can apply for assistance through the manufacturer. During certain times of the year, you may be able to change your plan to one that covers your specifics medications at lower costs. Speak with a licensed agent to get an estimate on your drug costs on different plans.

Answered by Celeste McGrath on February 9, 2026

Broker Licensed in GA, FL, NC & SC

Answered by Celeste McGrath Medicare Insurance Agent

Carolyn Duncan · Answer

Many options apply for those in need, when discussing the Medicare options a good agent will know when to offer the additional information to those clients that may need access to these programs.

Heidi Delaney · Answer

LIS is the Low Income Subsidy program provided through Social Security. Even people that do not qualify for Medicaid can qualify for LIS; you can apply by calling SSA or use this link to apply online https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help .

Answered by Heidi Delaney on August 27, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, AZ, KS & 5 other states

Answered by Heidi Delaney Medicare Insurance Agent

Françoise Mueller · Answer

Yes, even with the 2025 Medicare drug‑cost changes, there are several additional programs that can help you afford your medications. Most people don’t realize how many layers of assistance exist, and many qualify without knowing it. If someone’s income is moderate or low, Extra Help can reduce drug costs to just a few dollars and eliminate the Part D premium and deductible.

In 2025, Extra Help becomes even more generous — many people who didn’t qualify before will now qualify. Medicare Savings Programs or Medicaid automatically get Extra Help for medications. 

There are Manufacturer Patient Assistance Programs. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs and the MP3 program that will help you spread your payments out over the year so you can budget your finances and once you hit the $2,100 limit for 2026 then you pay nothing for the remainder of the year. This limit did increase by $100 between 2025 and 2026 so it may go up again in 2027. 

However, I go over all of those options with you to ensure we leave no stone unturned.

Darlene Cerezo Swaffar · Answer

You can check with the State Pharmaceutical Assistance program.  Many Medicare Primary Doctors are familiar with how to apply for these benefits for you regarding high cost brand name drugs.

Nicholas Ryckert · Answer

Options for reducing medication costs:
If you are a low-income Medicare beneficiary, consider applying for "Extra Help" to see if you qualify for reduced medication costs.
Look into manufacturer patient assistance programs (PAPs) that may offer free or discounted medicines.
Explore grants or assistance through the Patient Access Network (PAN) from the Patient Advocate Foundation.
Use savings programs like GoodRx, SingleCare, or Cost Plus Drugs to get discounts on prescriptions.
Check if your medication is available at lower prices via Canadian pharmacies such as PharmacyChecker.
Always ask your doctor about generic options and 90-day supplies to save money.

Rosalind Ryan · Answer

Even with the 2025 $2,000 out-of-pocket cap on Medicare Part D, there are several additional programs that can help lower your medication costs. Consider using GoodRx for discounts, applying for patient assistance programs through drug manufacturers, checking your eligibility for state pharmaceutical assistance programs, and exploring Medicare’s Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) program. You can also save by using generics, mail-order pharmacies, or choosing a different Medicare Part D plan during open enrollment.

Answered by Rosalind Ryan on June 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, FL & 8 other states

Answered by Rosalind Ryan Medicare Insurance Agent

Juan Osborn · Answer

Yes! A program called Extra Help offers assistance to low-income individuals to help with premiums, deductibles, and co-payments. You can apply on Social Security website or contacting Medicaid. Also, Medicare began a new program in 2025 that limits your annual drug costs to $2000 for the year. In 2025, this means your monthly average costs will not exceed $167. In 2026, it increases to $2100 or $175 monthly. Finally, there are many discount cards offered by pharmacies and health organizations.

Answered by Juan Osborn on September 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, CO, GA & 9 other states

Answered by Juan Osborn Medicare Insurance Agent

Mary Brown · Answer

You may qualify for the Extra Help program, which can lower or even eliminate your Medicare Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays, and you can apply for it directly on the Social Security website.

Mike Henry · Answer

Make sure you have the best Part D for your medicine. Also check with your pharmacy to see if any additional benefits are available to you. Such as Good RX!

Deborah Webster · Answer

Prescription savings are available both through the state and Federal Programs.
You can apply on the DHS website for the state pharmaceutical program. The Federal program is called LIS (low income subsidy) and this is available to apply online or contact your social security office for a paper version or sign up over the phone.

Eizel Mere · Answer

LIS and Medicaid are available to people that need extra help. If that is not an option, every prescription drug plan has different coverage. Call me for a consult to see if we are able to find a plan that will cover your prescriptions better.

Answered by Eizel Mere on September 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Eizel Mere Medicare Insurance Agent

Jeffrey Sodikoff · Answer

FLORIDA RX CARD
MEDICARE SAVINGS PROGRAMS
MEDICARE EXTRA HELP ( LIS )
MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION PAYMENT PLAN.......... PAY OVER 12 MONTHS
MAXIMUM OUT OF POCKET ANNUAL COST OF $2000 FOR DRUGS IN YOUR RX FORMULARY. GOING UP TO $2100 NEXT YEAR

Andre Cabral · Answer

You can apply for Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged & Disabled (PAAD)  at    https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/doas/services/l-p/paad/
This program offers a substantial discount on prescription drugs and may even cover your Medicare Part B premium, if you qualify.

Mark Murphy · Answer

A lot of states offer Senior Prescription Assistance programs (SPAPs) to help with prescription costs. In NJ we call that program PAAD (Prescription Assistance for the Aged and Disabled). It is a state program where your qualification is based on your yearly income. The income levels increase just about every year so it's always good to continue to check the site for updates.

Answered by Mark Murphy on April 9, 2025

Agent Licensed in NJ, AL, CO & 9 other states

Answered by Mark Murphy Medicare Insurance Agent

Alicia Tyring · Answer

There are several prgrams available to assist with prescriptions. Extra help is a program offered by the Social Security office. Medicare Savings Programs are offered at a state level. Medicare also offers a prescription payment plan to assist in managing costs. There are also state pharmaceutical assistance programs at a state and local level.

Answered by Alicia Tyring on November 6, 2025

Broker Licensed in IN, AL, AR & 42 other states

Answered by Alicia Tyring Medicare Insurance Agent

Fran Lovelace · Answer

You can go to Mecicare.gov and search "extra help"  Depending on your financial situation, you may qualify for extra help.  If so, you can apply there.
Also, some states have pharmaceutical assistance programs.
  For 2025 the maximum out of pocket for covered drugs is $2,000.00.  There is also a monthly payment program that you can set up this year with your Rx carrier.

Ingrid Kollmann · Answer

Firstly, the donut hole is going away and prescription drug costs will be held to $2,000 after which you don't pay anything more. Furthermore, the Medicare government came out with a prescription drug payment plan whereby one can spread the drug costs out over several months. Hope this helps.

Answered by Ingrid Kollmann on September 22, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA

Answered by Ingrid Kollmann Medicare Insurance Agent

Julia Alves · Answer

If you're on Medicare and still stressed about affording your prescriptions in 2025, you're not alone, but there are programs that can help. Extra Help (the Low-Income Subsidy) can lower or wipe out your Part D premium, deductible, and drop your copays to just a few bucks if you qualify. There’s also the new Prescription Payment Plan, which lets you spread out your drug costs month by month instead of paying a bunch up front (recommended for individuals with high up-front medication costs). And starting in 2025, there's a $2,000 annual cap on what you’ll spend out-of-pocket for prescriptions, a huge win for everyone with Part D.

On top of that, some people qualify for a Medicare Savings Program or their state’s SPAP for extra help with drug costs. Nonprofits like PAN Foundation and HealthWell also offer copay assistance, especially if you take expensive or brand-name meds.

A few next steps may be:

-Apply or reapply for Extra Help anytime through Social Security or Medicare.gov.
-Look into your state’s SPAP (State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program), if available.
-Check for manufacturer or nonprofit assistance programs (PAPs) for the specific medications you take.
-See if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP)

Jason Marshall · Answer

Yes. There’s Medicaid options, Low Income Subsidy, Medicare Savings Programs and many other options to help with drug cost.

Judi Norton · Answer

Yes.  Many of the Insurance companies that provide prescription drug coverage have programs to level out your payments for the year.

Christopher Akers · Answer

You can apply for Extra Help at SSA.gov.  You can use GoodRx to see if it can give you any discounts as well.

Julie Hamilton, RN · Answer

"Extra Help" is a Medicare program to help people with limited income and resources pay Medicare drug coverage (Part D) premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and other costs. Some people qualify for Extra Help automatically, and other people have to apply. You will get extra help automatically if you get full Medicaid coverage, help from your state paying your Part B premiums (from Medicare Savings Program), or SSI payments from Social Security. If you take brand name medications, you can also check into savings programs with the drug manufacturer and talk to your doctor about generic alternatives.

Answered by Julie Hamilton, RN on August 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in GA, AL, SC & TN

Answered by Julie Hamilton, RN Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Dooly · Answer

Absolutely! There are still additional programs that can help lower medication costs in 2026. One of the biggest is Extra Help, also called Low Income Subsidy, which can reduce or eliminate Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays for those who qualify. Some people may also qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, which can help pay Medicare costs and could automatically qualify you for Extra Help.

Since there are several factors that affect eligibility, it can be helpful to speak with a trusted local Medicare agent who can review your situation and help you see what programs may be available to you.

Kelli Callihan Ostrander · Answer

The Medicare Prescription Payment Plan is a new payment option for Medicare Part D enrollees that allows them to pay for their out-of-pocket prescription drug costs in monthly installments throughout the year, rather than all at once at the pharmacy. This program aims to help individuals manage their prescription drug costs by spreading them out over a longer period.

Answered by Kelli Callihan Ostrander on July 8, 2025

Agent Licensed in VA, FL, NC & WV

Answered by Kelli Callihan Ostrander Medicare Insurance Agent

Lara Goulson · Answer

Yes, there are extra help programs available that can lower your prescription drug costs, like the Extra Help program through Medicare. You might also qualify for state assistance programs or pharmaceutical company discounts depending on your income and needs. I can also help you find coupons to save on some medications.

Answered by Lara Goulson on August 4, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA

Answered by Lara Goulson Medicare Insurance Agent

Donna Hernandez · Answer

Yes, you can go to Social Security Administration at ssa.gov/extrahelp and apply for the Extra Help it’s a Low Income Subsidy Program if you qualify they help with Pard D premiums, deductible and copayments.

Answered by Donna Hernandez on October 13, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Donna Hernandez Medicare Insurance Agent

Casey Peterson · Answer

There are. Speaking with the drug manufacturers to see if you qualify, asking your prescribing doctor for samples, seeing if you qualify for assistance from your state or from the federal government, as well as other options.

Answered by Casey Peterson on April 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CO & 6 other states

Answered by Casey Peterson Medicare Insurance Agent

Virginia Barausky · Answer

Visit SSA.gov/extrahelp or call 1‑800‑772‑1213
There are also state programs that may be able to assist you, find an agent to help  you.

Tony Evangelista · Answer

Yes! There are a number of programs both at the state level and federal level. We do the hard work for you on getting you assistance to qualify for these.

Jamie Frank · Answer

Yes, even with the $2,000 out-of-pocket cap on Medicare Part D in 2025, there are additional assistance programs that can help seniors afford their medications. 
Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy), State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs, patient assistance programs from drug manufacturers, and websites like GoodRx for discounts. You can also discuss cheaper alternatives with your doctor.

Valerie Welch · Answer

There are a couple of options that could help you:

1) Along with the new $2000 out-of-pocket RX maximum, came the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan (M3P) which will allow you to pay for your prescriptions on a monthly basis, over the course of the whole year.

2) You might qualify for a "Low Income" Medicare Advantage Plan which would afford you "Extra Help" in paying for your prescription drugs.  Ask your Agent to see if you qualify.

Alison Grice · Answer

There are state and federal programs available to help cover the cost of your prescriptions, if you qualify. One such program is the Part D Extra Help program through social security. There are also various Medicaid programs that can help offset or cover the costs of your prescriptions as well and are dependent on the state you live and other qualifications. The Medicare Prescription Payment plan might be another option someone could consider. There are other programs as well out there and your trusted Medicare specialist can help point you in the direction of these resources as well as your providers and pharmacy.

Answered by Alison Grice on May 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, CO, FL & NC, TN, TX & WY

Answered by Alison Grice Medicare Insurance Agent

Roderick Gilliam · Answer

Yes, there are. 

You can ask your physician about a less expensive prescription.
Also see if they are able to provide samples that can help cover shortages.
There are some pharmacies as well as prescription manufacturers that offer coupons.
In my experience if you are VA service-connected, drug costs can be substantially lower.

Also be aware of the Inflation Reduction Act which is designed to reduce prescription cost for 2026

I'm worried about affording my medications even with the 2025 changes. Are there additional assistance programs I should know about?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website

I'm worried about affording my medications even with the 2025 changes. Are there additional assistance programs I should know about?

Agents: Share Your Expertise

Seniors: Ask a Question of Your Own

Related Questions

Agent Locator

Medicare Agents HubA non-government resource website

Medicare Agents Hub
A non-government resource website