How to Lower Your Medicare Costs in 2026
Six legitimate, government-run ways to cut what you pay for Medicare in 2026 — from Extra Help to the Medicare Savings Programs — and exactly how to apply for each.
If Medicare feels expensive, you may be paying for things the government would help cover. Below are the main programs that lower Medicare costs in 2026, who they're for, and how to apply — all free, and none of them run by a salesperson.
1. Extra Help (the Part D Low-Income Subsidy)
Extra Help lowers prescription drug costs to a $0 premium, $0 deductible, and small copays — worth about $5,700 a year. In 2026 the income limits are roughly $23,940 (single) or $32,460 (married), with savings under $18,090 / $36,100. Apply free at ssa.gov/extrahelp or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
2. The Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
These pay your Part B premium ($202.90/month in 2026) — and QMB also covers your deductibles and copays. Income limits are higher than most people expect, and 14 states plus D.C. have no asset test at all. Apply through your state Medicaid office or a free SHIP counselor at 1-800-MEDICARE.
3. Full Medicaid
At lower incomes you may qualify for full Medicaid alongside Medicare — the most complete coverage, filling the gaps Medicare leaves. This is decided by your state.
4. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)
Fifteen states run programs that lower prescription costs even if you don't get Extra Help. Search your state's name plus 'pharmaceutical assistance program.'
5, 6. Food, utility, and property-tax help
People who qualify for the programs above usually also qualify for SNAP (groceries), LIHEAP (utility bills), and property-tax relief. A free SHIP or benefits counselor can point you to each.
See what you qualify for — free, ~2 minutes
Run the free check →Frequently asked questions
What is the fastest way to lower Medicare costs?
Check your eligibility for Extra Help and the Medicare Savings Programs. Together they can cut prescription costs to near zero and pay your Part B premium — worth thousands a year — and joining a Savings Program signs you up for Extra Help automatically.
Do these programs cost anything to apply for?
No. Every program here is free to apply for through Social Security, your state Medicaid office, or a free SHIP counselor. You never need to pay an agent.
Updated July 2026. Sources: Medicare.gov, SSA, CMS (2026). Estimates — verify with SSA and your state.