Key Medicare Assistance Programs Offering Financial Relief

For Medicare enrollees facing challenges with healthcare costs, three key assistance programs offer financial relief: Medicaid (Apple Health in Washington), the Medicare Savings Program (also Apple Health in Washington), and the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), commonly known as Extra Help.

Individuals or families with incomes below $1,995 per month ($2,705 for couples) may qualify for these programs. Eligibility may extend to higher income levels if either the applicant or their partner remains employed since earned income, including self-employment income, is partially exempt from eligibility calculations.

These programs have distinct eligibility criteria. Medicaid and LIS impose asset limits but exempt the applicant's home or vehicle, while the Medicare Savings Program focuses solely on income. Benefits can include reductions in Part D premiums, prescription copays, state coverage of Part B (and possibly Part A) premiums, elimination of late enrollment penalties, and full coverage of deductibles and copays for those with significantly low income.

For detailed guidance, individuals can reach out to the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA). This service, facilitated by a partnership between the Orcas Senior Center and the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner, offers free and confidential counseling. The SHIBA office on Orcas Island can be contacted at 360-376-5892 to schedule personal counseling sessions.