Free insurance help by phoneMedicare, health, life, and supplemental helpZIP-based coverage review
Start match
Call 855-367-1095Make an appointment

GetFastRates.com

Extra Help

Extra Help is a federal program that helps people with limited income and resources pay for Medicare Part D prescription drug plan costs.

Last updated 2026-06-27GetFastRates.com Editorial TeamLicensed insurance review process

Why it matters

Qualifying for Extra Help can significantly reduce or eliminate Part D premiums, deductibles, and copays, but it requires applying and meeting income/resource limits.

Example

Someone on a fixed, limited income might apply for Extra Help through Social Security to reduce their Part D drug costs.

Common mistake

A common mistake is assuming Extra Help is the same as being dual-eligible for Medicare and Medicaid -- they're related but separate programs with their own eligibility rules.

Quick comparison

TopicExtra Help
Coverage areamedicare
Best next stepReview how this term applies to your plan, state, timing, and coverage question.

Questions about Extra Help

Why should I understand Extra Help before calling?

Understanding Extra Help helps you describe your question clearly, compare tradeoffs, and avoid focusing on only one number when a licensed review may need more context.

Can Extra Help change by plan or policy?

Extra Help can vary by carrier, plan type, state, network, timing, and policy language, so use this explanation as education rather than a personal coverage decision.

Related insurance terms

Part DPart D is Medicare prescription drug coverage offered through private insurance companies approved by Medicare, either standalone or tied to certain plans.Dual EligibleDual eligible describes someone who qualifies for both Medicare and Medicaid at the same time, typically based on limited income and resources.Coverage Gap (Donut Hole)The Medicare Part D coverage gap, often called the donut hole, was historically a stage where beneficiaries paid a higher share of drug costs after reaching an initial spending limit.

Tools that can help

Medicare Enrollment Period CalculatorFind your Medicare enrollment window and what it means for your timing.Medicare Part B Late Enrollment Penalty CalculatorEstimate whether a Part B late enrollment penalty could apply to you.Medicare Plan Ending FinderCheck your carrier and ZIP code against current, verified plan-ending records.

Questions are easier by phone.

Call 855-367-1095 to talk through your situation with licensed insurance help.

  • Licensed insurance help
  • No guaranteed eligibility, pricing, or availability
  • Educational starting point

GetFastRates.com is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Calling connects you with licensed insurance help. Plan availability, costs, benefits, and enrollment rules can vary by state, carrier, and individual situation.

Call 855-367-1095Make an appointment