# Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for Part D

Extra Help, also called the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), is a federal program that helps people with limited income and resources pay for Medicare Part D prescription drug costs — including premiums, deductibles, and copayments. Many people who qualify never apply.

## What it means

- Extra Help can significantly lower or eliminate Part D premiums, deductibles, and copay amounts.
- Eligibility is based on income and resources; limits are updated each year by the Social Security Administration.
- People who qualify for both Medicare and full Medicaid automatically get Extra Help.
- Qualifying for Extra Help gives you a Special Enrollment Period to switch Part D plans.

## Action steps

1. Apply online at ssa.gov, by phone with Social Security, or through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
2. Have current income and resource information ready when you apply.
3. If you're denied, ask about your state's Medicare Savings Programs — you may still qualify for those.

## Deadlines

- Applications for Extra Help are accepted year-round.

## Questions

### Do I have to reapply for Extra Help every year?

Not usually. Once you qualify, you generally keep Extra Help unless your circumstances change. Social Security may recheck eligibility periodically.

## Sources

- [Extra Help — Part D (medicare.gov)](https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/drug-costs)

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Canonical: https://seniordirectanswers.com/library/extra-help-lis
Author: Senior Direct Answers — https://seniordirectanswers.com
Publisher: Senior Direct Answers
Published: 2026-07-18T00:00:00+00:00
Modified: 2026-07-18T00:00:00+00:00
Last verified: 2026-07-18
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