Do you know anyone with income below about $1,225 per month (single), or $1,650 per month (couple) who doesn't have Medicare Part D? It's estimated that about 75 percent of people who don't currently have a Medicare Part D plan in Minnesota would qualify for Extra Help to help pay for it. People who are approved for Extra Help don't have to wait until November to enroll in a Part D plan. They can start taking advantage of extra dollars available to them almost immediately!

In fact, there is a disadvantage to people who qualify for Extra Help if they wait until after November to enroll in a Part D plan. If these people don't already have other drug coverage, they may have to pay a penalty if they wait to enroll until November. They get a break if they enroll now. If you know anyone who might qualify for Extra Help, have them contact the MnSF Health Plan Information Center, 651/783-5045, or 866/783-5045. We'll help them apply for Extra Help. Once Extra Help is approved, we'll help them decide on a Part D plan and enroll.

Extra Help reduces your premium, deductible and copays for drugs and eliminates the dreaded "donut hole" - the middle period during the year where you pay for your drugs entirely even though you must still also pay your premium. Right now there will be no penalty to sign up for a Part D plan if you are eligible for this Extra Help.

Qualifications for Extra Help are:

Single: monthly income under $1,225; assets under $11,500, not counting house and car

Couple: monthly income under $1,650; assets under $23,000, not counting house and car

Even if someone is a little over the income listed, they might qualify. Spread the word and encourage people to call us!

Remember, our membership has to increase, so ask a friend to join. We need all the participation we can get to improve quality of life for all citizens of minnesota.