What if I can't afford Medicare Part D?


Editorial team Published on

If you cannot afford Medicare Part D, federal and state programs can lower or eliminate your prescription drug costs.

✅ Apply for Extra Help

  • Extra Help is a federal program that pays for Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays.
  • Income limits (2026): Up to $2,015 monthly for individuals ($2,725 for couples).
  • Resource limits (2026): Under $18,090 for individuals ($36,100 for couples).
  • Automatic qualification: You qualify immediately if you have full Medicaid, a Medicare Savings Program, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

🗓 Use the Medicare Prescription Payment Plan

  • Medicare Prescription Payment Plan lets you spread out your out-of-pocket prescription costs into monthly payments.
  • Cost: Free to use with zero interest or extra fees.
  • Benefit: Prevents large upfront costs at the pharmacy by managing payments over time.

🔎 Explore State and Manufacturer Programs

  • State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs) offer extra help with drug costs in many states.
  • Patient Assistance Programs (PAP) are run by drug makers to provide free or low-cost brand-name medications.
  • State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, local guidance to help you find programs in your area.