Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit (Part D)

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Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit
The Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit provides coverage that helps persons on Medicare pay for the prescription drugs. It is available to all people with Medicare and covers brand name and generic drugs.

Eligibility
In order to qualify for the Prescription Drug Benefit individuals must be entitled to Part A and/or enrolled in Part B and elect to enroll in the program. Learn more about Medicare.

Enrollment
The annual coordinated election period (AEP) is an enrollment opportunity for persons who previously delayed enrollment or would like to change plans. A special enrollment period (SEP) may apply in special circumstances.

Download a one page handout on enrolling in a Part D Plan

Download a helpful plan finder instruction guide (note: large file)

Penalty
People that are eligible for drug coverage but choose not to enroll are subject to a penalty if enrolling at a later date. The penalty is equal to a 1% increase in premiums for each month of delayed enrollment based on the national base premium.

Standard Prescription Drug Coverage
Coverage under the Medicare Prescription Drug Program has a monthly premium, has a deductible and coinsurance. To learn the current premiums and coinsurance rates, visit www.medicare.gov.

Extra Help
The extra help is designed to provide people with limited income and resources extra assistance with premium and cost sharing under the Medicare prescription drug coverage. A person must enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan to receive extra help. People should apply for extra help using Social Security Administration Application or by visiting www.ssa.gov (Off Site).

Exceptions and Appeals
Learn more about Medicare's opportunities to appeal coverage decisions made by health plans.

To learn more about the Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit and Extra Help, visit Medicare at www.medicare.gov (Off Site).