Wisconsin Medicare beneficiaries have reason to celebrate. New income and asset limits in programs for Medicare savings in 2011 could mean a big win for seniors as more people may be eligible for super savings.
Programs for Medicare savings range from extra help with prescription drug costs to assistance with paying Medicare Part B premiums and maybe even Medicare deductibles and co-pays. If your individual gross monthly income is less than $1,361 per month and you have less than $12,640, you may qualify for one or more of these programs. For married couples the income limit is $1,839 per month and the assets must be under $25,260.
And don't forget that Wisconsin's Senior Care Drug Plan can help those with limited incomes who have more resources or assets than allowed by Medicare for Part D Extra Help. Even people who take few or no prescription drugs can benefit from Senior Care by enrolling in the very affordable program to avoid Medicare Part D late enrollment penalties. Senior Care also has no coverage gap, or "donut hole."
Another winning strategy to save is by taking advantage of the many preventive health screenings that are covered by Medicare at little or no cost to the beneficiary. From an Annual Wellness Exam to the Zoster Vaccine there are many preventive services available to help you keep well and save money. Please refer to your 2011 Medicare & You book for details or visit www.medicare.gov .
If you have questions or would like to apply for one of the Programs, please contact Pat Nelson, elderly benefit specialist for Douglas County. She can be reached by calling the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Douglas County at (715) 395-7533 or Senior Connections at (715) 394-3611 or (800) 870-2181.
