What is Medicare Extra Help?

Extra Helpis a federal program that helps people with limited income and resources pay for Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. It is run by the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). You may also see it called the Low-Income Subsidy, or LIS — they are the same thing.

Who qualifies in 2026

Eligibility is based on two tests: your income and your resources (savings and similar assets). For 2026, the income limit is set at 150% of the Federal Poverty Level:

• Single: about $23,475 per year ($1,956.25 per month)
• Married couple living together: about $31,725 per year ($2,643.75 per month)

Before comparing, Social Security subtracts a $20 general income disregard from your monthly income. Income limits are higher in Alaska and Hawaii, and your state’s Medicare Savings Program may allow a higher income still.

Resource (asset) limits

Your home and one vehicle do not count. Countable resources include savings, checking, stocks, bonds, and real estate other than your home. For 2026:

• Single: $16,590 (or $18,090 if you expect to use some savings for burial expenses)
• Married couple: $33,100 (or $36,100 with the burial set-aside)

The burial set-aside adds $1,500 per person to the limit if you tell SSA you expect to use some resources for burial or funeral costs. See what counts as income and resources for the full rules.

What full Extra Help covers in 2026

Since the Inflation Reduction Act removed the partial-subsidy tier in 2024, everyone who qualifies now gets the full subsidy. In 2026 that means:

• No Part D monthly premium (covered up to your region’s benchmark amount)
• No yearly deductible
• Drug copays capped at $5.10 for generics and $12.65 for brand-name drugs
• After your out-of-pocket drug costs reach $2,100 for the year, covered drugs cost $0 for the rest of the year

How to apply

You apply for Extra Help directly with Social Security — it is free. You can apply online or by paper using Form SSA-1020. Our step-by-step application guide walks through both paths, and a free SHIP counselor can help you complete it. If you already have Medicaid, SSI, or a Medicare Savings Program, you are automatically enrolled — no application needed.

Not sure where you stand? The eligibility check compares your situation to these 2026 limits in a few minutes, right on your device.