If you can’t afford your Medicare Part D premiums or out-of-pocket costs, here are two programs that can help. You should apply for both.
1. Apply for the “Extra Help” program run by Social Security
This program is also called “LIS” (Low Income Subsidy).
Extra Help will:
- Pay your monthly premium for a Part D plan that is “LIS Eligible.”
- Note: If you enroll in a Part D plan that is not LIS Eligible, you may have to pay part of the monthly premium. During open enrollment, when you look at Part D plans, be sure to find out which are LIS Eligible.
- Pay your deductible
- Lower your co-payments
Who is eligible for Extra Help?
Learn more about the Extra Help program and who is eligible.
2. Apply for the VPharm program run by the State of Vermont
VPharm works with your Medicare Part D plan and it has a modest monthly premium. It has a $15, $20 or $50 monthly premium based on your income.
VPharm will:
- Pay your monthly premium for a Part D plan that is “LIS Eligible.”
- Note: If you enroll in a Part D plan that is not LIS Eligible, you may have to pay part of the monthly premium. During open enrollment, when you look at Part D plans, be sure to find out which are LIS Eligible.
- Pay your deductible.
- Lower your copayments to between $1 and $2 for covered drugs.
Who is Eligible for VPharm?
If you are a Vermont resident with an income at or below 225% of the Federal Poverty Level, you can get VPharm. For a single person in 2025 that means an income of $2,935 a month. For a family of two that is an income of $3,966 a month.
To participate in the program, you must be enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan. Eligible Vermonters must also apply for Extra Help.
