Help for those with limited means

by Sandra Teel

Medicare Insurance Agent

If you have found yourself in a situation where you have to choose between buying necessities or paying for your prescription drugs, there may be help available for you. Social Security has extra help benefits you might qualify for, including: LIS (Low Income Subsidy) Extra Help: This is a program to help people with limited income and resources pay such Medicare prescription-drug-program costs as premiums, deductibles and coinsurance. In 2021, you may qualify if you have up to $19,320 in yearly income ($26,130 for a married couple) and up to $14,790 in resources ($29,520 for a married couple). For a complete list of qualifications, go to www. ssa.gov/prescriptionhelp.

Part D late enrollment penalty: If you delayed your enrollment in Medicare Part D and are under the penalty for late enrollment, LIS may reduce or eliminate the penalty. The assistance would remain in effect as long as you remain eligible for LIS.

If you believe you qualify, call Social Security at 1 (800) 7721213 to apply over the phone or to make an appointment to go into the Social Security office. Or you can log on to www.ssa.gov/ prescriptionhelp.com.

After Social Security reviews your application, they will send you a letter letting you know if you qualify.

Sandra Teel is a licensed independent brokerwhocanbecontacted via www.steelmedicareins.com, by calling (657) 204-4224 or by emailing steelmedagent@gmail.com.