May 15 is upon us - tulips are in bloom, the weather is finally nice and your chance to enroll in Medicare Part D is about to end. If you have yet to dig into specifics of Part D and decide whether it will save you money, it is to your advantage to do so now. No more waiting! Yes, there have been problems with implementation of this new prescription drug option. Yes, we need to work to make changes to this new program. Yes, some people can save money sticking with importing their drugs. But, YES we are also finding that many people can save with the new Part D. This benefit is here to stay and despite the need for changes to it, the Senior Federation recommends all Medicare-eligible people take a serious look at their drug needs, their drug coverage and Part D. Time is of the essence as the deadline to enroll is May 15. After May 15, Part D initial enrollment is closed (unless you qualify after May 15 for Extra Help - read on) and the next opportunity to enroll won't come until next November with coverage begining January 2007.

One thing to keep in mind is that if you delay enrollment in Part D until next year (or later) you may face a late enrollment penalty. This penalty is 1 percent of the average national premium per month that you are not enrolled. This amount initially does not sound high until you do the math. Since enrollment ends May 15, 2006 and the next opportunity to have coverage isn't until January 2007, delaying until next year will amount to 7 percent of the national average premium, which for this year is approximately $32. That's approximately $2.25 more per month added to your monthly Part D premium.

If you delay another year longer and then decide to enroll in Part D for 2008, you would face a penalty of 19 percent on that year's average national premium. A delay until 2009 would amount to a delay of 31 percent.

For those who become eligible for the Extra Help paying for Part D after May 15, there is good news. The deadline is being extended. Individuals eligible after May 15 will qualify for an open enrollment period so they can also enroll in a Part D plan. To qualify for Extra Help, your income must be below $14,700 for singles, $19,800 for couples and your assets must be below $11,500 for singles and $23,000 for couples.

If you've heard confusing or conflicting information about Medicare Part D plan deadlines, penalties and extra help, you are not alone! You also are not alone in figuring out your choices, or signing up for a plan, before the May 15 deadline.

MnSF and several community partners are offering free information and enrollment events. Come any time during these seven-hour events, you will able to sit down with a trained counselor for unbiased help researching and/or enrolling in a Part D plan and attend short presentations; and talk with Part D plan representatives. The events are open to everyone; free transportation and refreshments will be available. Even if you have already signed up for a plan, we encourage you to come to review your options. Remember, if you do nothing, you may have to pay a penalty later. If you need a ride or want more details call 651/783-5075.