Medicare LIS Program: Low Income Subsidy for Prescription Drugs
The Medicare LIS (Low Income Subsidy) program, also known as Extra Help, provides financial assistance with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs for qualifying beneficiaries.
Average Savings
$5,000+
per year on prescription costs
Eligible Beneficiaries
12M+
Medicare beneficiaries qualify
Maximum Copays
$4.50
for generic medications
What is the Medicare LIS Program?
The Medicare Low Income Subsidy (LIS) program is a federal assistance program that helps pay for Medicare Part D prescription drug plan costs. This program is administered by the Social Security Administration and provides both premium and cost-sharing assistance.
The LIS program is designed to make prescription medications affordable for Medicare beneficiaries with limited income and resources, ensuring that financial constraints don't prevent access to necessary medications.
Medicare LIS Program Benefits
Full LIS Benefits
- ✓No monthly Part D premium
- ✓$0 annual deductible
- ✓$4.50 generic drug copay
- ✓$11.20 brand name copay
- ✓No coverage gap
Partial LIS Benefits
- ✓Reduced monthly premium
- ✓Lower annual deductible
- ✓Reduced copays in coverage gap
- ✓25% discount on brand drugs
- ✓Protection from high costs
2025 Medicare LIS Qualification Requirements
Income and Resource Limits
Qualification is based on both your income and countable resources. These limits are updated annually.
| Benefit Level | Individual Income | Married Income | Resource Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full LIS | $21,870 | $29,580 | $16,660 / $33,240 |
| Partial LIS | $24,330 | $32,940 | $16,660 / $33,240 |
Automatic Qualification for Medicare LIS
Some Medicare beneficiaries automatically qualify for the LIS program without needing to apply:
Medicaid Beneficiaries
If you have Medicaid, you automatically qualify for full LIS benefits.
SSI Recipients
Supplemental Security Income recipients automatically qualify for full LIS.
QMB Beneficiaries
Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program participants get automatic full LIS.
MSP Participants
Medicare Savings Program participants qualify for full LIS benefits.
How to Apply for Medicare LIS
Online Application
Apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov using the LIS application form.
- • Available 24/7
- • Fastest processing time
- • Immediate confirmation
Phone Application
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778).
- • Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 7 PM
- • Assistance available in multiple languages
- • Help with completing application
In-Person Application
Visit your local Social Security office with required documentation.
- • Appointment recommended
- • Bring all required documents
- • Get help with application completion
Required Documentation for LIS Application
Income Documentation
- •Pay stubs or earnings statements
- •Social Security benefit statements
- •Pension or retirement statements
- •Unemployment benefits statements
- •Interest and dividend statements
Resource Documentation
- •Bank account statements
- •Investment account statements
- •Certificate of deposit statements
- •Stock and bond certificates
- •Life insurance policy information
Medicare LIS vs Extra Help: What's the Difference?
Medicare LIS and Extra Help are the same program. The official name is "Low Income Subsidy" (LIS), but it's commonly referred to as "Extra Help" in Medicare communications and marketing materials.
Official Name: LIS
- • Used in Social Security documentation
- • Referenced in Medicare regulations
- • Professional and technical discussions
Common Name: Extra Help
- • Used in Medicare marketing materials
- • Consumer-friendly terminology
- • Educational resources and guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for LIS if I already have a Part D plan?
Yes, you can apply for LIS at any time. If approved, your benefits will begin the month after Social Security processes your application, and you may be able to switch to a different Part D plan.
How long does the LIS application process take?
Most LIS applications are processed within 30-45 days. You'll receive a decision letter from Social Security explaining whether you qualify and what level of benefits you'll receive.
Do I need to reapply for LIS every year?
No, LIS benefits continue automatically as long as you remain eligible. However, Social Security may periodically review your eligibility and ask you to provide updated income and resource information.
Get Help with Your Medicare LIS Application
Our licensed insurance agents can help you understand Medicare LIS benefits, determine if you qualify, and assist with your application process at no cost to you.