Extra Help Income Limits 2026
| Household size | Monthly income limit | Annual income limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $1,995/mo | $23,940/yr |
| 2 people | $2,705/mo | $32,460/yr |
| 3 people | $3,415/mo | $40,980/yr |
| 4 people | $4,125/mo | $49,500/yr |
| 5 people | $4,835/mo | $58,020/yr |
| 6 people | $5,545/mo | $66,540/yr |
| 7 people | $6,255/mo | $75,060/yr |
| 8 people | $6,965/mo | $83,580/yr |
| Each additional person | +$710/mo | +$8,520/yr |
150% FPL, 48 contiguous states + DC, 2026. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits.
What Extra Help Covers in 2026
Extra Help reduces or removes many Part D costs, and people with Extra Help generally do not face the same coverage-gap costs as other enrollees. Extra Help may also reduce or eliminate the late enrollment penalty for those who missed Part D enrollment due to low income.
How to Apply for Extra Help
The fastest way to apply. Visit ssa.gov/medicare/part-d and complete the Extra Help application. Takes about 15 minutes.
Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778), Monday–Friday 8am–7pm. A representative can take your application by phone.
If you have Medicaid, QMB, SLMB, or QI, you are generally enrolled in Extra Help automatically — no application needed.
Extra Help vs QMB — What is the Difference?
Extra Help covers Part D prescription drug costs. QMB covers Part A and Part B premiums and cost-sharing. They are separate programs administered by different agencies — you can and should have both if you qualify.
See full Extra Help vs QMB comparison →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Extra Help income limit for 2026?
The Extra Help income limit is 150% of the Federal Poverty Level — $1,995/month for a single person and $2,705/month for a couple in 2026.
Does Extra Help renew automatically?
If you receive Extra Help through Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program, it generally renews automatically. If you applied directly through SSA, you may receive a renewal notice and need to reapply annually.
Can I get Extra Help if I have a Medicare Advantage plan?
Yes. Extra Help works with both Original Medicare Part D plans and Medicare Advantage plans that include drug coverage (MA-PD plans).
What counts as income for Extra Help?
Social Security benefits, wages, pension payments, and most other income count. Some income is excluded, including the first $20/month of most income and irregular or infrequent income under $30/quarter.