New Medicare Prescription Drug Program

From the U.S. Social Security Administration office in Oklahoma City:

In January 2006, a new Medicare Prescription Drug Program (Part D) will take effect, providing a prescription drug benefit to seniors and persons with disabilities who have Medicare coverage. Under this new program, Medicare beneficiaries who meet limited income and asset limits may be eligible to receive financial help which reduces or eliminates the monthly premium and significantly lowers the co-payment for prescription drugs.

From June through August 2005, Medicare beneficiaries who may be eligible for the extra help will be mailed an Application for Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs (Form SSA-1020). If you receive an application you should complete and return it as soon as possible. If you do not receive an application in the mail or do not want to wait, you can get one by calling at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Beginning July 1, 2005, you can also apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov.

Have questions about basic aspects of social security or reform issues? Please consult this guide for further information.