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The Medicare Savings Program can put money back into your pocket The Medicare Savings Program can save people with Medicare up to $2,424 each year. Lots of people have applied for this program and now receive $2,424 more in their Social Security checks each year. Many people use the extra money to help pay for living expenses. Many people could receive this assistance, but they don’t because they have not applied. You may be one of these people. You could apply to receive this assistance if you answer “YES” to the following three questions: 1. Do you have or are you entitled to Medicare Part A, also known as hospital insurance? 2. If you are unsure, look on your red, white and blue Medicare insurance card. Or you can call Social Security at 800.633.4227 to ask. If you have or are entitled to Medicare Part A, go on to question 2 because the Medicare Savings Program may pay the Medicare Part A and/or Part B premium for you. 3. Are you an individual with a monthly income of less than $1,816* or a couple with a monthly income of less than $2,455**? 4. Are you an individual with savings of $9,950 or less or a couple with savings of $14,910 or less? 5. Savings include things like money in a checking or savings account, as well as stocks or bonds. When you are figuring out your savings, do NOT include your home, one car per couple used for transportation, burial plots, up to $1,500 for burial expenses, or a limited amount in an irrevocable burial trust.

*Income limits for 2026 include a $20 monthly income disregard. **Income and savings limits may change slightly each year. Call to get more information Get the most out of Medicare by taking advantage of the Medicare Savings Program. It is very important to call if you think you qualify for any of these savings, even if you are unsure. Call your local DSS office. When you call, ask for a benefits specialist to discuss the Medicare Savings Program or call toll-free at 877.999.5612 (TTY/TDD 877.486.2048). Online information: Department of Social Services: dss.sd.gov Local Office Information: dss.sd.gov/findyourlocaloffice/ Medicare Savings Program Information: dss.sd.gov/medicaid/generalinfo/ medicarerecipients.aspx Extra help with Medicare prescription drug plan costs Medicare beneficiaries can qualify for extra help paying for their monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and co-payments related to Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage). This program is run by the Social Security Administration. You can call Social Security at 800.772.1213 (TTY 800.325.0778) to apply over the phone, request a paper application, or to schedule an appointment to apply at your local Social Security office.