Perspective
The Medicare Discount Drug Card and the Low-income Benefit
The Medicare prescription drug card will become available to people with Medicare in June of this year. And while it may not be worth getting if you have to pay for it, it is worth getting if your income is low and it is free. If your income is low, the card will help you save money on drug costs in 2004 and 2005. The cards will be offered through private companies, and each card will offer different discounts on different drugs.
If your annual income is below $12,569 ($16,862 for a couple), the government will pay your fee for the discount card and up to 600 dollars a year of your drug costs. The low-income benefit is available through all Medicare drug discount card programs; however, there is a different application for a Medicare drug discount card with the low-income benefit. You will need to choose the card you want and then complete and submit the company’s application for people with low incomes. You will get a free card if your income meets the income test. Companies will only ask you to report your family size, income, and any other forms of prescription drug coverage you have. If you have coverage through a state pharmaceutical assistance program, you can still get the low-income benefit. You cannot get the low-income benefit if you already have drug coverage from your current employer, Medicaid, the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program, TRICARE, or the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Remember, you must apply using the form for a discount drug card with the low-income benefit. You will not be automatically enrolled just because you are eligible or are currently enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program. If you are not eligible for the low-income benefit associated with the drug card, it is best that you look into other drug savings options through state, pharmaceutical company, pharmacy, mail-order, and internet programs.If you have any questions, call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227.