What is Medicare Extra Help and who qualifies for it now?
Medicare Extra Help can cut retirees' prescription drug costs, but program eligibility hinges on a few key factors.
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August 11, 2026 / 12:57 PM EDT / CBS News
Prescription drug costs have changed considerably for Medicare beneficiaries over the last few years. Case in point? The introduction of a federal cap on annual out-of-pocket Medicare Part D spending has provided an important new layer of protection, with the limit rising from $2,000 in 2025 to $2,100 in 2026. But even with that safeguard in place, paying for medications can still put significant pressure on retirees and others living on limited incomes.
After all, the out-of-pocket Part D cap doesn't eliminate the other expenses that can come with Medicare drug coverage. Depending on the plan and the prescriptions someone takes, there are premiums, deductibles and pharmacy costs that can still add up — and can put more strain on retirees' budgets and compete with the cost of housing, groceries and other necessities for a spot in a tight monthly budget.
That's where programs designed to reduce Medicare expenses can become especially valuable. One of those programs, known as Medicare Extra Help , specifically targets prescription drug costs. What exactly is this program, though, and who qualifies to take advantage of it? That's what we'll outline below.
Find out more about your Medicare Supplemental coverage options here .