AHIP Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Guide

1.	Medicare Has Several Parts

2.	Becoming Eligible

3.	Who is Eligible

4.	Choices for Health Care Coverage

5.	Choices for Prescription Drug Coverage

6.	Payments

7.	Medicare Coverage Requirements

8.	Qualifying for Extra Help

9.	Signing Up

10.	Changing Your Plan

STEP 2: Find the Plan That's Best for You

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8. Qualifying for Extra Help

You can get EXTRA HELP covering your prescription drug costs if your income and assets are limited.

	If you qualify for extra help, you can get help paying for your Medicare drug plan's monthly premium, yearly deductible, and prescription copays or coinsurance, including any costs you have in the coverage gap.
	The amount of extra help you receive will be based on your income and assets. This includes your savings, stocks, and real estate that is not your primary residence, but it does not count your home or car.
	You may qualify if: You are single and have an income less than $15,315 in 2007.* You are married and living with your spouse and have an income less than $20,535 in 2007.* Your assets are below certain limits.

*Note: These amounts will be adjusted for 2008.

If you received extra help for your Medicare prescription drug costs in 2007 you could receive a letter from SSA saying you will no longer automatically qualify for this extra help. However, because you may still qualify for the extra help, you can apply for that help to continue in 2008.

	If you have limited income and resources and think you may still qualify for extra help with your prescription drug costs, you will need to apply and qualify through Social Security or your State Medical Assistance (Medicaid) office.
	You can apply for extra help by filling out and mailing the application that is included with the SSA notice or by contacting SSA.
	You should apply as soon as possible to make sure that, if you qualify, you will get extra help starting January 1, 2008.

To find out if you are eligible and to apply for extra help:

	Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1(800) 772-1213, or visit its web site at www.socialsecurity.gov.
	Contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Talk with a SHIP counselor who will help you apply for extra help. After you apply, you will receive a letter in the mail letting you know whether or not you qualify and what to do next. SAVE THIS LETTER.