Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA)
Help for Medicare enrollees on a limited income
Medicare is great health insurance, but it doesn’t always cover all of the costs of medical care. For many many older adults and people with disabilities who struggle to make ends meet, it can be quite difficult to afford these extra costs.
There are now two separate programs available to help with the additional expenses associated with Medicare. Both of these programs have varying levels of assistance, and many people qualify for both programs.
Extra Help
Extra Help, also known as the “Low Income Subsidy,” provides assistance with Medicare Part D (prescription drug) premiums and copayments, and keeps people out of the coverage gap known as “the donut hole.”
In order to qualify, an individual’s income must be no greater than $1,353 per month with resources no greater than $12,640. (For a married couple, the combined monthly income should be no greater than $1,821 with resources no greater than $25,620.)
The Medicare Savings Program
The Medicare Savings Program can cover the cost of the Part B premium, and possibly co-payments and deductibles, depending upon the applicant’s level of income. To qualify, an individual’s monthly income must be no greater than $1,218 with resources no greater than $6,680. (For a married couple, the combined monthly income should be no greater than $1,639 with resources no greater than $10,020.)
The resources that are counted include such things as money in the bank, stocks, bonds or other types of investment. It does not include your house, car or jewelry, and there is never a lien put on your property with either of these programs. The lower the amount of income and resources the applicant has, the greater the level of assistance available.
It never hurts to apply, even if you think your income may be over the limit.
To find out more or to receive an application, please contact the Allegheny Link to Aging and Disability Resources at 1-866-730-2368.
Extra Help and Medicare Savings Program eligibility/benefits chart
Contains details about income qualifications and benefits for both Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs.
Extra Help and Medicare Savings Program flyer
Contains the information above in a printer-friendly format.
Extra Help and Medicare Savings Program application
Completed forms may be mailed to: MIPPA c/o The Link, Department of Human Services,
441 Smithfield St., Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or FAX to: 412-350-3834.