What do I do if I cannot afford my Medicare premiums?

Question

Andrew Zurbuch, MBA · Accepted Answer

You can inquire on a reduction to your Medicare Part B premium by calling Medicare at 1800MEDICARE. When you call Medicare please note the date of the call & the Medicare representative's name. If you call Medicare back, you will most likely not get the same representative on that call. 
You can also apply for Medicaid in your State of residence. Please call your State's Medicaid Office. Thank you.

Steve and Sue Brauer · Answer

All right, thanks for watching. So the question is, what if someone can't afford their Medicare premiums? My first advice is to go make an appointment with Social Security. Go down there, talk to them, and say, "Look, here's my income," and they can even look it up. You may have all the details on it. Ask them for help, and figure out if you qualify for extra help. Maybe you don't, or maybe you go on Medicaid, and then you go on what they call Medicare and Medicaid. It's called a dual program. Maybe you just need a little bit of extra help because you can't afford certain things related to Medicare. It all depends on what your income is and how they can help you strategize. If it's Social Security, they'll be the ones to help you.

William Lawler · Answer

If you cannot afford your Part B premium, I would apply for help through your state`s Medicaid program.  Bill Lawler.

Terri Reagin · Answer

The first thing I would do if I could not afford my Medicare Part B premiums is contact my local Department of Human Services and apply for Medicaid, because if you're approved for Medicaid, they will actually pay your Part B premium. You can also apply for what's called a low-income subsidy, and that can pay either all or part of your Medicare premium. I hope this helps.

Christopher Boyd · Answer

Apply to your state for Medicaid assistance with the Medicare Savings Program. Some Medicare Advantage plans provide a Part B Giveback to cover a portion of the Part B premium for those folks who are not eligible for State Assistance.

Answered by Christopher Boyd on December 19, 2025

Agent Licensed in IN, KY, MI, OH, PA & TN

Answered by Christopher Boyd Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Maliwauki · Answer

Apply for State Medicaid. 

Partial Medicaid also known as Medicare Savings Program can help pay your Medicare Part A&B premiums, other plan premiums (if you have a Medicare Advantage plan), copays and coinsurance. This particular MSP is also called QMB or Qualified Medicare Beneficiary.

Ann Sanfelippo · Answer

If you can’t afford their Medicare premiums, there are programs that may pay part or all of the cost. The Medicare Savings Programs can cover the Part B premium and sometimes deductibles and copays, depending on income and assets. For prescription drug costs, Extra Help can reduce or eliminate Part D premiums and medication copays. You can apply through Social Security or your state Medicaid office, and a local SHIP counselor can help for free. It’s important not to stop paying premiums, because that can lead to losing coverage and penalties later.

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo on December 18, 2025

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

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo Medicare Insurance Agent

Bill Wheeler · Answer

You may seek help from a Medicare give back
Program. That will offer a benefit toward your part B cost.

Christy Jones · Answer

Get with a Broker that can help you apply for various programs based on your income. (You can also go to Social Security and Health & Welfare to see if you qualify.). Some programs will cover your Medicare premiums, but you have to qualify for them. Some qualifications are based on your income and financial situation.

Answered by Christy Jones on May 31, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AL, AR & 20 other states

Answered by Christy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Vincent Murray · Answer

Talk to your medicare advocate about applying for Extra help from your state.  
Full Medicaid dual eligible and QMBY pay premiums, co pays and co insurance.  DEL pays for Part B premium and reduced presciptions most PDP premiums under $36.

Steven Lovell · Answer

If you are struggling to afford your Medicare premiums, several options can help. You can explore Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) offered by your state, which can assist with premium costs, deductibles, and coinsurance. Additionally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) provides "Extra Help" for those with limited income to lower prescription drug costs, which can indirectly alleviate financial strain. 

We can allook at other products and other ways to pay for it.

Michael Denniston · Answer

If you cannot afford your Medicare part B premiums you should apply for LIS (low income subsidy) also known as extra help. Qualifying for LIS is based on income. There is also the application for MSP (Medicare Savings Plan) which may pay your part B premium. I as an agent work with many clients and help guide them through the application process. It's easy to explain and also submit.

Answered by Michael Denniston on June 1, 2025

Agent Licensed in FL, AL, AR & 11 other states

Answered by Michael Denniston Medicare Insurance Agent

James Carlson · Answer

Medicare companies expect to be paid within 30-60 days. If difficult to meet timely payment call and request your payment be submitted late. If really difficult you may requst your plan be changed to a less expensive plan. Even supplemdnts could be less expensive.

Answered by James Carlson on April 13, 2026

Broker Licensed in MN

Answered by James Carlson Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Andrews · Answer

So the question is, what do I do if I can't afford my Medicare premiums? Well, Connecticut and most states have their own program called the Medicare Savings Program, and it's for individuals who are below a certain income. Each state has its own requirements. I know in Connecticut, they have requirements that are just income-based. So as long as your income is below a certain amount, you can get some assistance paying for your Medicare premiums.

Just as an example, if you're single and your income is about $3,200 a month or less—and yes, that is gross income, including all of your Social Security and any distributions you're receiving from a 401(k)—then if that total amount is below $3,200, we can help you get on the savings program. If you're married, that income threshold is slightly higher. There’s no cost or anything like that, and it would help pay for your Part B premiums and sometimes your Medicare copays. Hope that helps!

Don Hudson · Answer

There are a few options if you need help paying your Medicare premiums, each of the options are controlled by the state where you reside. 
Medicare Savings programs may help pay for your Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Part B (Medical Insurance) premiums . If you qualify, Medicare Savings Programs might also pay your Part A and Part B deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.

Robert Pennington · Answer

Sounds like you have a Medicare Supplement with a monthly premium and also having to pay out of pocket for a Prescription Drug Plan and Dental, Vision, and Hearing. Most Medicare Advantage Plans cover all these benefits with a $0 Premium plus additional benefits.

Answered by Robert Pennington on February 2, 2026

Broker Licensed in NC, GA, SC & VA

Answered by Robert Pennington Medicare Insurance Agent

Sherry Rose · Answer

There are payment plans and options available! 
To get more information and assistance setting this up, please contact us.

David Bell · Answer

First apply for extra help with prescription drug costs. If you qualify, that program will reduce your part B premiums. Supplemental coverage premiums are usually more than what average co-pays on Medicare Advantage plans. So Medicare Advantage may be a good solution. Be sure to understand the details of the plan.

Answered by David Bell on May 26, 2025

Agent Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 8 other states

Answered by David Bell Medicare Insurance Agent

Amy Putrino · Answer

Apply for Medicare Savings Program.  This assists you with paying for your Part B premium, based on your income.
If you are having a difficult time paying for your plan premium, you can apply for Low Income Subsidy (LIS), also known as Extra-Help, which could reduce the plan premium.
We can help you determine whether you are eligible for these programs.

Allen McGirl · Answer

You should try and qualify for Low Income Subsidy or Medicaid by going to ssa.gov/prescriptionhelp.  We provide this service at no charge to all out clients and prospects.

Justin Call · Answer

We look at Medicaid options, Low Income Subsidies (Extra Help), and other programs. We also talk about what you are paying for currently. Maybe you have a life insurance policy that is more than you need, or maybe we can get you a better rate on a similar policy.

Answered by Justin Call on June 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in UT, ID, MT & WY

Answered by Justin Call Medicare Insurance Agent

Oscar Chavez · Answer

If you can not afford your premiums, you may qualify for the Medicare Savings Program that will help you pay your premiums.

Peyton Hanigan · Answer

If you cannot afford your Medicare premiums there are other options to consider. One would be getting a plan that offers a rebate on Part B premiums. Another option would be to apply for assistance through the sate aka Medicaid. If you don't qualify for Medicaid, you can also look into LIS (low-income subsidy) through the Social Security Administration.

Answered by Peyton Hanigan on March 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Peyton Hanigan Medicare Insurance Agent

Jackson Stodgel · Answer

If you’re having trouble affording your Medicare premiums, there are federal subsidies and state assistance programs that may significantly reduce your monthly costs. Reach out to a Medicare professional like myself so we can review your options and see what programs you may qualify for.

Answered by Jackson Stodgel on December 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, CA, IL & 12 other states

Answered by Jackson Stodgel Medicare Insurance Agent

Richard Smith · Answer

I would recommend going to your local Medicaid office and apply for Medicaid. They have different levels of Medicaid. 

If you don’t qualify for Medicaid I would signup for a Medicare Advantage plan that has a part B giveback. That could reduce your part B premium where you might could afford it.

Steven Bleicher · Answer

Please apply for Medicaid. If you are approved, depending on your aging in to Medicare, you can apply for a “SNP” (or a Special Needs Plan) Advantage plan, where there are no premiums/month and no out of pocket expenses for medical & hospital treatment or prescription drugs!

Answered by Steven Bleicher on June 4, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Kristen Skinner · Answer

You may be able to qualify for Medicaid or a level of medicaid that pays for the Part B premium. I would check with your local state office.

Gus Karigan · Answer

There are Medicare Savings Programs(MSA'S) which can assist with Part A and B. You can also look for extra help/Low income subsidy to help with Part D. You can also check to see if your state offers additional programs or Medicaid to help cover costs.

Answered by Gus Karigan on October 3, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, GA & MI

Answered by Gus Karigan Medicare Insurance Agent

Cleo Martin · Answer

You can get a Medicare Advantage that has a Giveback benefit to it. Some giveback most of the premium that is around $200 for 2026. It pays it back to Medicare so that your social security check doesn't show full reduction for it.

Answered by Cleo Martin on February 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in SC, FL, GA, MI & NC

Answered by Cleo Martin Medicare Insurance Agent

Nick Sarant · Answer

See if you qualify for Medicaid or LIS. Your plan’s advocate can help you apply or call Medicare and apply over the phone.

Barbara Patterson, CFP · Answer

See if you can apply for the Medicare Savings Plan.  If approved the state you live in May pay for your Part B premiums.  It is based on income and assets.

David Ryerson · Answer

There are savings programs that your state may offer that can pay some of the premiums and copayments. Qualification is usually based on income and assets.

Brianna Douros · Answer

I would advise to apply for Mediciad. Medicaid is income based and aid through your state. If approved, Mediciad may help pay for parts or all of your medicare premium. If you are outside of the income bracket of medicaid, I would advise you to at least apply for extra help through Medicare. You can do so by going to ssa.gov.

Answered by Brianna Douros on April 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in VA, CO, NC & TX

Answered by Brianna Douros Medicare Insurance Agent

Brian Kulis · Answer

You may be able to make arrangements with your plan or may be able to change plans. Check with a local agent to find out the best solutions.

Pauline Weiland · Answer

Talk to your agent about your income and ask if there is a program you can apply to that will help with your premiums. If that is not the case ask about other resources in your area.

Valentina Gatewood · Answer

If you are unable to afford the Part B premium, there are options. You can apply for premium assistance or Medicaid.

Cindy Clonts · Answer

You may qualify for "extra help" or Medicaid if you are below the federal poverty limit.  We can help you fill out an application.

Evan Agona · Answer

If Medicare premiums or healthcare costs are difficult to afford, there are programs available that may help reduce or even eliminate some of those expenses.

Medicare Savings Programs are state-run programs that may help pay for Medicare costs depending on income and financial eligibility. These programs can help cover Part B premiums, and in some cases may also help with deductibles, coinsurance, and co-pays.

There is also a program called Extra Help, which helps reduce the cost of prescription drug coverage. Individuals who qualify may pay lower premiums, lower deductibles, and reduced co-pays for medications.

In some situations, individuals with very limited income may also qualify for Medicaid in addition to Medicare. When someone has both Medicare and Medicaid, it may help cover premiums and additional out-of-pocket healthcare costs. These are often referred to as dual-plans. 

Additionally, it may be as simple as meeting with a Medicare Broker to review your plan annually and switch to a plan the better suits your budget, needs and coverage. Reviews are free of charge and often times a broke can find a plan to save you money.

Steven LaPorte · Answer

There are a lot of factors involved in choosing an affordable Medicare plan. One depends on how the premium is being made, through your social security or out right paying. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer zero premium over the SS deduction in some areas. I’d highly suggest scheduling an appointment with a licensed and certified Medicare insurance agent. And one that is certified with several insurance company so that you have more options to fit your circumstance.

Answered by Steven LaPorte on March 2, 2026

Agent Licensed in LA, MS & TX

Answered by Steven LaPorte Medicare Insurance Agent

Sheila Dow · Answer

Talk to your Agent about the Medicare Savings Plan.  Review your Income levels and  see if you might qualify for Extra Help

Diane Walker · Answer

Apply for Qualified Medicare Beneficiary. This is a program that helps low-income individuals pay for things like Part B premiums. Visit you local Department of Human Services and they will help you or you can download and print a copy of the form from their website.

Answered by Diane Walker on November 6, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL & IN

Answered by Diane Walker Medicare Insurance Agent

Jon Maves · Answer

Talk to me! Medicare doesn't provide a one size fits all solution. Part of the value that I can add is educating you with what your options are and help you make the best decision for your situation. Sometimes it is clear, other times I will just ask you questions to help you come to a decision that you feel comfortable and good about.

Answered by Jon Maves on May 5, 2025

Broker Licensed in TN, AZ, CA & 9 other states

Answered by Jon Maves Medicare Insurance Agent

Merlin Gomez · Answer

You can see if you qualify for adult Medicaid or the Medicare savings program through the Medicaid office as well. The Medicare savings program helps pay for your part B premium.

Fred Manas · Answer

If you're struggling to afford your Medicare premiums, you can explore several options for financial assistance.
State and federal programs, like Medicare Savings Programs and Medicaid, can help cover premiums and other medical costs. 
Also, you can consider programs like Extra Help, which provides financial assistance with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs.

Gary Henderson · Answer

There are programs run by the states that can help lower your Medicare costs. Find out if you’re eligible for these programs, how to apply, and other ways to save on your Medicare coverage. 
https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs

Meghan Blankenship · Answer

If you can't afford your Medicare premiums, there are several programs and options that may help lower or even eliminate those costs. You don't have to drop coverage-there are safety nets designed specifically for this situation. 

Key Options to Explore-

Medicaid: If your income and assets are limited, Medicaid may cover your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copayments. It can also provide benefits Medicare doesn't, like dental or long-term care.

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs): These state-run programs help pay for Part A and Part B premiums. Depending on your income, they may also cover deductibles and coinsurance.

Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy for Part D): This program reduces or eliminates prescription drug plan premiums and caps medication costs. For example, generic drugs may cost only a few dollars per prescription. 

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Offers free, personalized counseling to help you understand your options and apply for assistance. You can connect with your local SHIP.

Contact Medicare Directly: You can call 1-800-MEDICARE to ask about premium reduction or confirm eligibility for assistance programs.

Carol Thompson · Answer

If you cannot afford your medicare premiums then you may qualify for Medicare savings programs as well as Medicaid in your state of residence. Contact the department of Family & Children services (DCF) of your state.

Answered by Carol Thompson on October 30, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, LA, MI & NC, SC, VA & WI

Answered by Carol Thompson Medicare Insurance Agent

Suzanne Lamperti · Answer

Check with your state for program(s) that may help with that. I do know that MD has a program that help with Part B premiums and another that would help with the 20% that you would pay to the doctor.

Todd Bostic · Answer

That is when you can switch one time in your life and use what is called a trial right to try out a MAPD if your Medigap gets canceled, or if you are in an open enrollment period or have a special enrollment period.

Answered by Todd Bostic on July 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AL, AZ & 12 other states

Answered by Todd Bostic Medicare Insurance Agent

Andrew Kelly · Answer

My recommendation is to build a relationship with a local Medicare specialist who can help you explore options and/or programs. We work hard to serve all clients, regardless of financial situation, and there may be different times when a different solution makes more sense.

Answered by Andrew Kelly on May 18, 2026

Agent Licensed in WA & OR

Answered by Andrew Kelly Medicare Insurance Agent

Carol Conner · Answer

If you’re paying monthly Medicare premiums you might consider going to an advantage plan that has zero premiums but then you’ll have an HMO which you’ll have to be referred and you’ll have co-pays and coinsurance so it’s kind of a pay as you go. You could always apply for Medicaid to see if you qualify for that to help my suggestion would be just to have an agent come and help you review your plans so you have options.

Answered by Carol Conner on November 23, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX

Answered by Carol Conner Medicare Insurance Agent

Eizel Mere · Answer

There are plans that have Givebacks to help with the Part B premium. It depends on what plans your doctor takes and whats prescriptions you take. Also Medicaid could be an option if yoir income is below the guidelines. Feel free to contact me for more information.

Answered by Eizel Mere on April 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Eizel Mere Medicare Insurance Agent

Michael Kim · Answer

You can get a Medicare Advantage Plan. These plans do not have any monthly premiums, and covers both medical and prescriptions. Also include ancillary benefits like vision, hearing, dental, free gym membership and much more.

Answered by Michael Kim on September 8, 2025

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

Answered by Michael Kim Medicare Insurance Agent

Jeffrey Sodikoff · Answer

You need to be more specific. Are you speaking about the monthly premiums for Medicare Advantage plans ?Are you speaking about the Part B premiums you pay to the Government ? 

Can you qualify for " Extra Help " or Medicaid ? It would all depend on your income and assets to determine what level of financial health you would receive.

Jami Mead · Answer

If you cannot afford your Medicare Premiums you can apply for senior Medicaid through your local Job and Family Services. If you are over income and do not qualify for that program, there are several Medicare Advantage Plans that offer a Giveback Program and will pay back a portion of the Medicare Part B Premiums you pay.

Answered by Jami Mead on April 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in OH, FL, GA & 11 other states

Answered by Jami Mead Medicare Insurance Agent

David Christian · Answer

If you can't afford your Medicare premiums you should contact your local County office and see if you qualify for Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California). If you qualify they may pay your Medicare premium for you. If you need assistance paying for your prescriptions and fall within the income limits you may be awarded Medicare Part D Prescription Assistance known as Low Income Subsidy. You may apply for that here: https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help

Answered by David Christian on May 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA & TX

Answered by David Christian Medicare Insurance Agent

Adam Morillo · Answer

If you can not afford the Medicare premiums you have a few options, you can apply for a Medicare savings program, you can also look into a Medicare Advantage plan that can help with the Medicare premiums.

Answered by Adam Morillo on July 9, 2025

Broker Licensed in FL, AK, AL & 48 other states

Answered by Adam Morillo Medicare Insurance Agent

Amy Jones · Answer

You can apply for state Medicaid assistance or apply for a low income subsidy (LIS), also known as extra help. To apply for extra help, you can contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-MEDICARE or 1-800-772-1213.

Answered by Amy Jones on April 6, 2026

Broker Licensed in WV, AL, AZ & 29 other states

Answered by Amy Jones Medicare Insurance Agent

Blaine Shipe · Answer

If you cannoy afford the Part B potion of your Advantage plan. Then you can turn to your local and state government to help pay.

Adam Paul · Answer

You can explore opportunities with a Medicare Advantage HMO Plan. Most of them include hospital, medical, prescription drug, and more at no additional cost to you.

Natalee Nimmo · Answer

I would recommend that you seek assistance from Medicaid. They have different programs that allow you higher income than normal Medicaid but will pay the Medicare Part B premiums for you. That program is called QI (qualified individual) program in SC.

Answered by Natalee Nimmo on April 28, 2025

Broker Licensed in SC, FL, GA & KY, MO, NC & TX

Answered by Natalee Nimmo Medicare Insurance Agent

Jerry Cohen · Answer

Medicare offers at least two ways to reduce costs for benificiaries. The Kow Income Su 
bsidy reduces costs on prescription medications and the costs of drug plan premium.A second form of assistance comes in a program called a Medicare Savings Plan which lowers deductibles, co pays, and premiums for beneficiaries.

Peggy Elliott · Answer

In order to get assistance with your Medicare premiums, you have to be eligible for what's called a QMB, a qualified Medicare beneficiary. That assists you with your Part B premium if it's too high. If you need assistance with your premium for your Medicare supplement or your Medicare Advantage plan, then you need to get what's called a low-income subsidy. That also assists with the premium. So once again, you need to contact the state or contact your social services low-income subsidy department, which is the state of Ohio. All right, thank you very much. Have a wonderful day.

Robin Duffey · Answer

Almost all HMO Medicare Advantage plan are zero monthly premiums and only some PPO plans have premiums. If you are referring to the Medicare Part B monthly premiums then that is another issue. If you cannot afford those premiums then Medicare will remove you from the Part B. robin

Answered by Robin Duffey on November 20, 2025

Agent Licensed in AZ, CO, ID, NM, OR & WA

Answered by Robin Duffey Medicare Insurance Agent

Otisha Newton · Answer

If you’re struggling to afford your Medicare premiums, there are several ways to get help. You can apply for a Medicare Savings Program through your state to help cover your Part A and B premiums or other costs, and you may also qualify for Extra Help through Social Security to lower your prescription drug expenses. If your income is very limited, you could be eligible for Medicaid, which can cover even more of your medical costs. Another option is to explore $0 premium Medicare Advantage plans, which often reduce monthly expenses. Finally, you can contact your local SHIP office for free, personalized help finding and applying for these programs.

Answered by Otisha Newton on October 24, 2025

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

Answered by Otisha Newton Medicare Insurance Agent

Jamie Blake · Answer

There are different Medicare Plans.  Depending on the state and county you may pay different amounts, premiums and co-pays.

It is best to speak with a Broker to find out what is available and the options that will suit you needs.

Angelina Watkins · Answer

If you are unable to afford your Medicare Part B premium, you may want to contact your local state agency to see if you qualify for any assistant programs they may have available.

Marta Iris González · Answer

💙 1. Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)

These state-run programs can help pay for:
	•	Part B premiums
	•	Sometimes Part A premiums
	•	Deductibles and coinsurance (depending on the program)

The main programs include:
	•	QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary)
	•	SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary)
	•	QI (Qualifying Individual)

Eligibility is based on income and limited assets.

⸻

💊 2. Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy)

The Extra Help program helps pay for:
	•	Prescription drug plan premiums
	•	Deductibles
	•	Copays

You apply through the Social Security Administration, and many people qualify without realizing it.

⸻

🏥 3. Medicaid

If your income is very limited, you may qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid (often called “dual eligible”). Medicaid can help cover premiums and additional medical costs.

You apply through your state Medicaid office.

⸻

📌 4. Contact Social Security

If you’re having trouble paying premiums that are being deducted from your Social Security check — or you’re being billed directly — contact the Social Security Administration right away to avoid losing coverage.

⸻

✅ Key Takeaway

If you cannot afford your Medicare premiums, do not ignore the bills. Help is available — and many assistance programs are income-based, not credit-based.

Daniel Underwood · Answer

If you’re having trouble paying your Medicare premiums, there are programs that can help lower your costs, like Medicaid or Medicare Savings Programs. I can help you find out if you qualify and guide you through the application process so you get the support you need.

Answered by Daniel Underwood on August 8, 2025

Broker Licensed in LA

Answered by Daniel Underwood Medicare Insurance Agent

John Hawk · Answer

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs)
These state-run programs can pay your Part A and/or Part B premiums, and in some cases also cover deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Asset limits in 2026 are $9,950 for individuals and $14,910 for couples — though several states don’t impose asset limits at all. 
Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy)
Qualifying for an MSP automatically enrolls you in Extra Help, worth an estimated $5,700/year in drug cost savings — with copays capped at $5.10 for generics and $12.65 for brand-name drugs. 
Key action steps:
	•	Apply through your state Medicaid office (even if you’re not sure you qualify — apply anyway)
	•	Call SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) for free, personalized guidance 
	•	Use NCOA’s free BenefitsCheckUp tool at benefitscheckup website.

Christopher Stewart · Answer

If you cannot afford your Medicare premiums we need to apply for Medicaid through the state. If you are above the Medicaid threshold we need to apply for Medicare Extra Help, at the minimum.

George Francis · Answer

There are various programs available to cover some but not all premium costs. 

Programs resources available to help are:
1. Medicare Saving Programs (MSP), help cover costs associated with Medicare Part A and B. You qualify based on income and/or resources.
2. Low-Income Subsidy or Extra Help (Part D) program, helps cover Part D premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and copays.
3. Medicaid - a government program covering health care costs for individuals with low income, certain children, pregnant people and people with disabilities.

George
Medicare Advantage Advisor

Kim White · Answer

If you cannot afford your Medicare premiums, you definitely want to talk to an agent.  An insurance agent that specializes in Medicare can help explain your options..

Andrew Bartley · Answer

Call social security and see if you qualify for list or Medicaid which can assist in reducing cost or completely covering them depending on your income

Darko Bozic · Answer

I would look into possibly getting a Giveback Advantage plan. Some companies offer Medicare Advantage plans that include a 'giveback' perk meaning they pay some or all of your Part B premium.

Justin Hundley · Answer

If you are struggling to afford your Medicare premiums then there are a few different programs that you could look into such as Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, or Extra Help (low income subsidy). 

A licensed Medicare agent can assist you in navigating your options and how to find out if you qualify for assistance with your Medicare premiums.

Heith Huguet · Answer

Call me. I can help you navigate the maze of Medicare choices. You may qualify for extra help, part B give back,  or a plan with no premium. Let me help you in this process for no charge and no obligation to enroll.

Marshall Orenic · Answer

There are zero premium plans for those who qualify.  I take a look at all options when I meet with my clients each year.

Anatoli Korosidis · Answer

There is assistance available to individuals within certain income levels. A licensed professional can help look at options and parameters. Please reach out if you would like some assistance.

Jason Amen Hetep · Answer

If you're referring to your Part B premium deductible from Social security,  you can call Medicare and discuss your options.  If it's your Medicare plan premium,  you can look at zero premium plans in your county.

Jennifer Parks · Answer

Medicare Advantage plans can offer that safety net with little or no monthly premiums (you must still have part b). Additionally most Advantage plans offer some additional benefits like dental, vision and hearing benefits not covered by original Medicare.