Are YOU missing out on discount prescriptions?

Are YOU missing out on discount prescriptions?

Little time remains to join Medicare’s drug plan with ‘extra help’ and without a late penalty

Many older Californians are eligible for deeply discounted membership in Medicare’s prescription drug plan…but don’t realize it! You or someone you know might be one.

If you’re a Medicare member with income under $1,245 a month ($1,670 for a couple) and savings under $11,500 ($23,000 for a couple), you qualify. Your home and certain other assets and income don’t count, so if you’re close, it’s worth your while to check.

The May 15, 2006, deadline doesn’t apply to people eligible for this "extra help." But after December 31, 2006, a late enrollment penalty will apply.

Medi-Cal beneficiaries should have been enrolled automatically for this "extra help." But if you think you may not have been, call and we can check.

If you don’t have Medi-Cal and you applied for and got the discount for 2006, you may have to reapply.

Senior Legal Hotline, a free service for residents over 60 anywhere in California, can help you learn whether you qualify. If you do, we can apply for you while we talk on the phone. Call (916) 551-2140 in Sacramento or toll-free, (800) 222-1753, statewide. Hours are 9 to 12 and 1 to 4 Monday through Friday, and until 7 p.m. on Thursdays.