Struggling to afford Medicare? You could save up to $185 a month

If Medicare costs are stretching your budget, help is available. You may qualify for programs that could save you up to $185 each month on premiums, deductibles, copays, and prescription drug expenses. That’s more money back in your pocket—to buy groceries, pay rent, fill your gas tank, or even treat a friend to lunch.

There are two programs that can help you save.

Medicare Savings Programs

The first is the Medicare Savings Programs. This program helps qualified people on Medicare, pay for all or part of their Medicare premiums.

It may cover Medicare for those on Part A premiums (if the person has any costs), Part B premiums, coinsurance, copayments, and deductibles.

Low-Income Subsidy

The second program is the Low-Income Subsidy. This program helps qualified people on Medicare pay their Part D prescription drug plan costs.

Depending on income and asses, individuals may qualify for a full or partial subsidy to help pay for premiums, deductibles, copays, or the donut hole/coverage gap (this is when Medicare temporarily stops paying for your prescriptions and you must pay the entire cost of medications).

To find out if you qualify or to get help signing up for these programs, call 1-800-562-6900 and ask for your local Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisor (SHIBA) program or visit the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner’s website.

SHIBA is a free, unbiased, and confidential program of the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. It does not sell anything and only offers education and counseling on Medicare options.

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