The Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) is a Medicare program to help people with limited income and resources pay Medicare prescription drug program costs, like premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance. The Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) is also known as Extra Help.

To qualify for LIS, your income and resources must be equal to or lower than these limits:

Low-Income Subsidy Program 2019 Income and Resources Limits

Monthly Income Limits

Resource Limits*

Amount of
Premium Subsidy

Level 1
(Up to 135% of FPL)
Single: $1,405
Married: $1,902
Single: $7,730.01 to $12,890
Married: $11,600.01 to $25,720
100%
(less help with copays
& deductibles if
resources are
more than
$7,560 or $12,600)
Level 2
(136% to 140% of FPL)
Single: $1,457
Married: $1,973
Single: $12,890 or less
Married: $25,720 or less
75%
Level 3
(141% to 145% of FPL)
Single: $1,509
Married: $2,043
Single: $12,890 or less
Married: $25,720 or less
50%
Level 4
(146% to 150% of FPL)
Single: $1,561
Married: $2,114
Single: $12,890 or less
Married: $25,720 or less
25%
* The LIS program does not count money you set aside for burial expenses as part of your resources, which is $1,500 for individuals and $3,000 for couples.