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LA Medicare GuideLos Angeles County
Operated by HealthBenefitsCompass LLC, a subsidiary of HealthcareGPS Inc.Medicare education · Not a government websiteReviewed by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN (licensed Medicare agent) and Karen OrillaHow we prepare our guidance →Meet our reviewers →

Reviewed for accuracy by Lauri Middleton, RN, MSN, licensed Medicare agentReviewed for clarity by Karen OrillaMeet our reviewers →

Help with costs

Help with costs

Programs that lower Medicare costs, how to apply, and what to have ready. An agency decides; this site never asks about income.

An agency decides who gets each program. This site does not screen for eligibility and never asks for income.

Extra Help (Part D Low-Income Subsidy)

Lowers Part D premiums, deductibles and copays for prescriptions.

How to apply
Social Security, online or by phone. Medi-Cal members get it automatically.
Have ready
  • Medicare number
  • Last year's income figures
  • Bank and investment balances

Call 1-800-772-1213Visit: ssa.gov

Medicare Savings Programs (through Medi-Cal)

Pays the Part B premium; some levels also cover deductibles and copays.

How to apply
Your county Medi-Cal office. Since 2024 California does not count assets, but income limits apply and the county decides.
Have ready
  • Medicare card
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of California residence

Visit: dhcs.ca.gov

Full Medi-Cal with Medicare

Covers most costs Medicare leaves, including long-term care and dental, for people who qualify.

How to apply
Your county Medi-Cal office or Covered California.
Have ready
  • Identification
  • Proof of income
  • Household information

Visit: dhcs.ca.gov

Appeal a higher premium after a life change

If income dropped since the tax year Medicare used, the extra Part B and D premium can be recalculated.

How to apply
Social Security, form SSA-44, with proof of the event.
Have ready
  • Form SSA-44
  • Proof of the life change (retirement letter, death certificate, divorce decree)

Call 1-800-772-1213Visit: ssa.gov

Who to call about costs

  • Los Angeles County HICAP

    Free, confidential, one-on-one Medicare counseling for county residents and families, run by the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program. Not affiliated with any plan or agent. In-person appointments are offered through the county program; call to book.

    English · Español · + interpreters

    Call 1-213-383-4519Visit: lacounty.gov

  • Social Security — signing up for Parts A and B

    Enrollment in Original Medicare goes through Social Security, online or by phone. TTY 1-800-325-0778.

    English · Español · + interpreters

    Call 1-800-772-1213Visit: ssa.gov

  • Medi-Cal — Medicare Savings Programs

    Help with Part B premiums and other costs is applied for through Medi-Cal. An agency decides who receives it; this site does not screen.

    English · Español · + others

    Visit: dhcs.ca.gov

Three quick questions

Not a test — a way to check that this page said what it meant to. A wrong answer shows the correction.

Who decides whether you get Extra Help or a Medicare Savings Program?
In California, where do you apply for help with the Part B premium?
Where is the deadline to appeal a denial written?