"Extra Help" is a low-income subsidy program for Medicare recipients. It helps with prescription drug premiums, deductibles and co-payments. If you are single with an annual income less than $16,245 and resources less than $12,510, or if you are married with a combined annual income less than $21,855 and combined resources less than $25,010, you might qualify for this benefit.
Unfortunately, the "Extra Help" program will not assist with benzodiazepine costs or many of the higher priced drugs because this program only helps with drugs covered by a Medicare recipient's drug plan. Benzodiazepines are one of several drugs Medicare doesn't require drug plans to cover. Drug plans that cover benzodiazepines will often charge higher annual premiums because they provide this extra benefit.
However, it might still save you money by helping you with premiums, deductibles and other drug co-pays should you qualify for the program. Ask your doctor if there is another drug covered by your plan that might help you sleep instead of benzodiazepines, which are covered by only a few Medicare drug plans.
You can apply for "Extra Help" by calling the Social Security Administration at (800)772-1213. Don't assume your resources will disqualify you for this benefit. A number of assets, such as the home you live in, are not considered resources when determining your eligibility for "Extra Help."
Sources: Your Guide to Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage, a free publication of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
For more information contact Senior Solutions at (954) 456-8984 or toll free at 1-800-213-3524
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