Medicare Part D

Medicare Part D helps cover prescription drug costs. 

You can enroll in Part D coverage by selecting a Part D standalone plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that incorporates drug coverage. 

All Medicare Part D plans have a list of drugs that are covered. This list is called the Formulary. Typically, the formulary will include several tiers. Drugs are listed in different tiers, determining the drug costs. 

When Can I Enroll Into A Medicare Part D Plan?

You can choose a plan when you first become eligible for Medicare. You will have 3 months prior, the month of, and 3 months after your Parts A and/or B eligiblilty dates or the month that you turn 65 (or date of disability, if prior to turning 65.) If you have delayed enrollment into Part B, you will only have the 3 months prior to your Part B effective date to enroll into a plan. 

You may add, switch or drop Medicare Part D Plans during the annual election period which is between October 15th and December 7th of each year. You may make as many changes as you like during this period. The last enrollment you submit will be effective January 1st of the following year.  

There are other special election periods throughout the year where you may be eligible to add, change or drop a Medicare Part D Plan. A few examples of these special election periods include change in residence, loss of employer group coverage, and eligibility for Medicaid. 

What if I don't Enroll Into A Medicare Part D Plan?

If you do not enroll into a Medicare Part D Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan that includes drug coverage when you are eligible, you may be subject to a penalty. 

Financial Help

Depending on your income level, you may qualify for help paying your drug premiums, co-pays and co-insurance.

For more information, visit Medicare.gov