You may qualify for the Extra Help—a federal program that helps you pay for most of the costs of Medicare drug coverage—if your 2009 income is below $16,245 ($21,855 for couples) and your resources are less than $12,510 ($25,010 for couples). The amount of assistance you qualify for will depend on your income.

How do I get Extra Help to pay for my Medicare drug costs?

• If you have Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program (MSP), or you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), you automatically qualify for Extra Help—you do not have to apply.
• If you do not have Medicaid, an MSP or SSI, you should apply for help through the Social Security Administration (SSA) using the agency’s print or online application.
• When you submit your application through SSA, you can simply state that your income and assets qualify you; you will not have to provide proof.

What do I do after I get Extra Help?

You should choose and enroll in a Medicare private drug plan. If you do not, you will be automatically enrolled in a plan that may not fit your needs. Pick one that covers your medications and works at the pharmacies you prefer and has a premium that is fully covered by Extra Help. Enroll in 2006 and you will not have to pay a penalty for late enrollment.

You can also logon to http://www.ssa.gov/prescriptionhelp/ or call the NC Seniors' Health Insurance Information Program (NC SHIIP) at 1-800-443-9354 to speak with a counselor.