Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)

Medicare Part D is the part of Medicare that covers prescription drugs. It helps pay for the medicines your doctor prescribes to help you stay healthy. You can get Part D through a private insurance plan approved by Medicare. You may pay a monthly premium, and you may also pay part of the cost when you pick up your medicine. You have 2 options when choosing a Medicare Part D plan: - **Standalone Part D plans:** These plans add drug coverage to original Medicare (Parts A and B). For example, if you have original Medicare with or without a Medicare Supplement (Medigap), you need to add a Part D plan to get help paying for your prescription medicine. - **Medicare Advantage plans:** You can join a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan that includes Part A, Part B, and Part D all in one plan. ## Can I get help from Medicare Part D? You can get Medicare Part D if you already have Part A or Part B. Most people get Part D when they first become eligible for Medicare, usually at age 65. You can also get this coverage if you are younger but have a disability and get Medicare benefits. ## Do I have to join a Medicare Part D plan? You do not have to join a Medicare Part D plan. But if you decide later that you want Part D after the timeframe for signing up has passed, you will pay extra for the plan each month. This is called the Part D late enrollment penalty. ## How much does Medicare Part D cost? The cost of Medicare Part D depends on the plan you choose. Most people pay a monthly premium, which averages $34.50 in 2026. If you have a higher income, you might pay an extra amount each month. You may also pay a deductible (the amount you pay before plan coverage starts) and copays (a small amount for each prescription). The Part D annual deductible in 2026 is $615. Medicare Part D sets a limit on how much you pay for medicines out of your own pocket every year. In 2026, this limit is $2,100. Once you spend this amount, you will pay nothing for covered medicines for the rest of the year. If you have limited income, you may qualify for the Part D [Extra Help](https://benefitscheckup.org/program/rxgov_fd_medicare_lis) benefit, which can help lower your prescription drug costs. ## When can I get Medicare Part D? You can sign up for Part D: - When you first get Medicare (usually around your 65th birthday). This is called your Initial Enrollment Period. It lasts 7 months, including 3 months before, the month of, and 3 months after your birthday month. - Each year during Open Enrollment: From Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, you can join, switch, or drop a Part D plan. Your changes start Jan. 1. You may also qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if you move or lose other drug coverage. ## How do I choose a Medicare Part D plan? To compare plans or enroll in a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan: - Go to the [Medicare Plan Finder](https://www.medicare.gov/plan-compare/#/?year=2025&lang=en). - Call 1-800-MEDICARE ([1-800-633-4227](tel:1-800-633-4227))). If you are a TTY user, call [1-877-486-2048](tel:1-877-486-2048). - Contact your local State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) to speak to a Medicare counselor. Find your SHIP by [visiting their website](http://www.shiphelp.org/) or calling [1-877-839-2675](tel:1-877-839-2675). ## Who Should I Contact? **Medicare** - Phone: [1-800-633-4227](tel:800-633-4227) - TTY/TTD: [1-(877-) 486-2048](tel:(877)%20486-2048) - Website: [https://www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan/questions/home.aspx](https://www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan/questions/home.aspx)