In this guide 4 sections
In most cases, Extra Help eligibility depends on income and resources. Extra Help can lower costs for cancer drugs covered by Part D. Chemotherapy received in a doctor’s office, clinic, outpatient hospital setting, or as a hospital inpatient may be covered under Part B or Part A instead.
Check whether she qualifies automatically
She gets Extra Help automatically if she has full Medicaid, receives Supplemental Security Income, or gets state help paying her Part B premium through a Medicare Savings Program.
Compare her finances with the 2026 limits
For an individual in 2026, the listed Extra Help limits are $23,940 for income and $18,090 for resources. For a married couple, they are $32,460 for income and $36,100 for resources. These limits may increase each year.
- 1.Check whether she already has Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, or a Medicare Savings Program.
- 2.If not, apply for Extra Help through Social Security. A local State Health Insurance Assistance Program can provide free application help.
- 3.Make a list of every cancer drug. Ask the PPO, pharmacy, cancer clinic, or SHIP whether each one is covered under Part D, Part B, or Part A.
- 4.Apply through her state for a Medicare Savings Program too. It may help with Part A and Part B costs and can also qualify her automatically for Extra Help.
Find out which benefit pays for each cancer drug
Extra Help reduces Part D premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, copayments, and late enrollment penalties. It applies only to drugs covered under Part D. Medicare Part B covers chemotherapy received as an outpatient or in a doctor’s office or freestanding clinic. Medicare Part A covers chemotherapy during an inpatient hospital stay.
Get help with both applications
SHIP offers free help understanding coverage, applying for Extra Help, and filing complaints or appeals. She can apply for Extra Help and a Medicare Savings Program at the same time. The Eldercare Locator can connect families with local aging and benefits services at 1-800-677-1116.
Questions families ask
Will Extra Help lower the cost of every cancer treatment drug?
No. It lowers costs for drugs covered by Part D. It does not lower cost sharing for chemotherapy billed under Part B or Part A.
Can she apply if she is not sure she meets the limits?
Yes. Medicare says people should still apply for a Medicare Savings Program even if they think they may not qualify. State rules can be more generous than the listed federal limits.
Can she apply for Extra Help and a Medicare Savings Program together?
Yes. Social Security can send information to the state to start a Medicare Savings Program application unless she asks it not to on the Extra Help application.
What if her income or resources change later?
She can reapply for Extra Help at any time if her income or resources change.
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