Practical guidance for living healthier, aging well, and becoming more of who you want to be.
Premiums, deductibles, copayments, and prescription costs can add up. Two types of assistance are especially important for people with limited income and resources: Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help.
Medicare Savings Programs
Medicare Savings Programs are administered by states. Depending on the program and your eligibility, assistance may help pay Medicare Part A or Part B premiums and, in some cases, deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments.
States can use different rules and may disregard certain income or resources. That means it can be worthwhile to apply even if you think your income is slightly above a figure you saw online.
Start at the official Medicare Savings Programs page. The page directs applicants to their state Medicaid office, which makes the eligibility decision.
Extra Help for prescription drug costs
Extra Help assists eligible people with Medicare Part D costs, such as premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and other prescription expenses. Some people receive it automatically because they have Medicaid, receive SSI, or get help from a Medicare Savings Program. Other people need to apply.
Use the Medicare Extra Help guide or apply through Social Security.
Income and resource limits can change each year. Do not copy an old limit from a blog or social-media post; check the official page when you apply.
Free, unbiased application help
Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program, commonly called SHIP, offering free Medicare counseling. A counselor can explain options and help with applications without selling an insurance plan. Find your local program through the SHIP Help locator.
Before you apply
Gather current information about income, bank accounts and other countable resources, Medicare coverage, prescriptions, and household or marital status. The state or SSA will tell you exactly what proof is required.
Watch for misleading sales calls
Medicare cost-help programs do not require you to buy a new plan from an unsolicited caller. Do not disclose your Medicare number, Social Security number, or banking information in response to an unexpected call, email, or text.
Important: Eligibility and covered costs depend on the program, state, income, resources, and current-year rules. This is general educational information, not insurance, legal, or financial advice. Only Medicare, Social Security, or the relevant state agency can determine eligibility. Review date: August 27, 2026.
