Extra Help, also known as the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), is a federal program that helps Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources pay for prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D. In New Mexico, where many seniors live on fixed incomes, Extra Help can save eligible beneficiaries an average of $5,000 or more per year on drug costs.
What Extra Help Covers
- Part D monthly premiums (paid in full or reduced)
- Annual Part D deductible (eliminated or reduced)
- Prescription copayments (reduced to $0–$12.65 per prescription in 2026)
Who Qualifies?
You may qualify for Extra Help if you meet these approximate income and resource limits:
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Resource Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | ~$23,940 | ~$18,090 |
| Married couple | ~$32,460 | ~$36,100 |
Limits are approximate and updated annually. Resources include savings, stocks, and bonds but exclude your home, car, burial plots, and life insurance up to $1,500.
Automatic qualification: You automatically qualify for Extra Help if you have full Medicaid (Turquoise Care), are in a Medicare Savings Program (QMB, SLMB, QI), or receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
How to Apply in New Mexico
- Online: ssa.gov/medicare/prescriptionhelp
- Phone: Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778)
- In Person: Your local Social Security office
- Through Medicaid: Applying for Turquoise Care also screens you for Extra Help
Extra Help and Plan Enrollment
If you qualify for Extra Help, you also get a Special Enrollment Period that allows you to switch Part D or Medicare Advantage plans once per quarter (January through September). This gives you flexibility to find the plan with the lowest costs for your specific medications.
Compare Part D plans in your county to find the best option for your prescriptions.
Don't Leave Money on the Table
The Social Security Administration estimates that millions of eligible Medicare beneficiaries are not enrolled in Extra Help. If you or someone you know in New Mexico has limited income, it is worth applying—there is no cost and no penalty for applying.