Financial Assistance · Medicare
Medicare Extra Help & Savings Programs
Medicare Extra Help (also called the Part D Low-Income Subsidy) helps pay Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays for people with limited income and resources. Separate Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) can help pay Part A and Part B costs through your state Medicaid agency. Programs are based on income and asset limits that change annually.
Many Medicare beneficiaries qualify for financial assistance but never apply. Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs can reduce prescription costs and Part B expenses — and may open the door to dual-eligible plan options. This guide explains the main programs, how to apply, and when to talk with an advisor.
Last updated Jul 11, 2026
What We Review
Part D Extra Help (LIS)
Federal program that lowers Part D premiums, deductibles, and drug copays. Apply through Social Security (online, phone, or mail). You can use it with standalone Part D or Advantage plans that include drug coverage.
Medicare Savings Programs (MSP)
State Medicaid programs that help pay Medicare premiums and cost-sharing: Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB), Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB), and Qualifying Individual (QI). Rules and names vary slightly by state.
Full vs. Partial Dual Eligible
If MSP or Medicaid covers your Medicare premiums and cost-sharing, you may be "full dual eligible" and qualify for D-SNP plans. Partial dual status may still qualify for certain assistance programs.
How to Apply
Extra Help: apply at SSA.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. MSP/Medicaid: contact your state Medicaid office. Many states use a single application for Medicaid, MSP, and related programs.
Annual Recertification
Income and resource limits are reviewed periodically. Report changes in income, marital status, or assets to Social Security and your state Medicaid agency to avoid overpayments or loss of benefits.
How This Affects Plan Choice
Extra Help changes Part D costs and which plans are advisable. Medicaid/MSP status may make D-SNP plans a strong fit. We factor your assistance level into plan comparisons during AEP and year-round when SEPs apply.
- Independent Medicare advisor
- Licensed in FL, AL, GA & NC
- Virtual appointments across the Southeast
What to Know Before You Enroll
Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs are separate from choosing a Medicare Advantage or Medigap plan — but they directly affect what you pay and which plan types may fit best.
SwitchBlue helps beneficiaries in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina understand how assistance programs interact with plan choice. For official eligibility determinations, always use Social Security and your state Medicaid agency.
Related Medicare Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs?
If I get Extra Help, do I still need a Part D plan?
Can SwitchBlue help me apply for Extra Help?
Does Medicaid automatically enroll me in the best Medicare plan?
Want more detail? View Part D guide
Looking for help in a specific city? Browse Medicare help by city and state
Prefer to Research on Your Own?
You can compare every plan available in your area and get unbiased, free help from official government resources:
- Medicare Plan Finder (Medicare.gov)
- Your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) — free 1-on-1 counseling
- Enroll in Medicare Part A & Part B (Social Security)
- Apply for Medicare Part D Extra Help (Social Security)
- Medicare Savings Programs overview (Medicare.gov)
- Florida SHINE — free Medicare counseling