Medicare Part D “Extra Help” Program Expansion Coming in 2024

Prices are soaring. Many people’s monthly bills are increasing faster than the cost of living adjustment. Unfortunately prescription drugs have not been spared in the price increases, and people are having to choose which of their necessary medications they are going to have to give up. Fortunately, some help is on the way.

Medicare Part D is an optional plan offered to anyone who qualifies for Medicare, and covers prescription drug charges. There have been many changes to Medicare Part D in 2023, including more vaccines being covered with no out-of-pocket cost to the recipient; lowered or fixed insulin prices; and the creation of the new “Extra Help” program.

The Extra Help program is for low-income individuals (less than $21,870 per year for a single person or $29,580 for a married couple living together) who also have limited resources ($16,660 for a single person or $33,240 for a married couple). If you qualify for Medicaid, Social Security Income, or a Medicare Savings Plan, you automatically qualify for the Part D Extra Help program. Extra Help offers full or partial benefits to the recipient.

Starting in January 2024, a further expansion to the Extra Help program will allow an even wider range of seniors to enroll. Currently, the applicant’s household income must be less than 135% of the federal poverty level. The 2024 change will expand it to more potential recipients by raising that amount to 150% of the federal poverty level. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, this change is expected to benefit more than 300,000 current enrollees who are only receiving partial benefits, who will now be eligible to receive full benefits under the program. There are even more changes coming in 2025 and beyond.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, up to three million seniors could benefit from this Extra Help program, but are not currently enrolled. To see whether you qualify under the current or soon-to-be-expanded program and to apply for the Extra Help program, visit the Social Security Administration website (https://www.ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help) or visit your local Social Security Office.