In this guide 4 sections
You applied for Extra Help through Social Security but are unsure whether you also have drug coverage. The application asks for help paying Part D costs. If you qualify and do not already have a drug plan, Medicare will automatically enroll you in one and mail you a notice.
Do you need to enroll separately?
Not necessarily. If you are approved for Extra Help and have no Medicare drug plan, Medicare will automatically enroll you. You can keep that plan or choose a different Medicare drug plan.
What should you do next?
- 1.Check whether you already have drug coverage through a stand-alone Part D plan or a Medicare Advantage plan.
- 2.Read the Extra Help decision and any Medicare notice that names a new drug plan.
- 3.If you are approved but have not received plan information, call 1-800-MEDICARE at 1-800-633-4227 to check your enrollment.
- 4.If you want to choose your own plan, compare available drug plans or ask your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program, called SHIP, for free counseling.
What if you have Medicare Advantage?
Most Medicare Advantage plans include Part D drug coverage. Check with your current plan before joining a separate drug plan because joining one can cause disenrollment from certain Medicare Advantage plans.
Where can you get help?
Call 1-800-MEDICARE at 1-800-633-4227 to check whether a Part D plan is active. SHIP provides free help choosing a plan, reviewing coverage, understanding costs, and applying for Extra Help.
Questions families ask
Will Medicare choose a Part D plan for me?
Yes, if you qualify for Extra Help and do not already have Medicare drug coverage, Medicare will automatically enroll you in a Part D plan and send you a notice.
Can I choose a different plan after Medicare enrolls me?
Yes. The notice will identify the new plan, and you can choose a different Medicare drug plan.
Does Extra Help replace Part D coverage?
No. Extra Help lowers eligible Part D premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and other drug costs. Drug coverage comes through a Part D plan or a Medicare health plan that includes Part D.
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