Help Paying for Medicare in California
Programs that can lower premiums, deductibles, and drug costs for people with limited income.
Many Central Valley seniors pay more for Medicare than they need to, simply because nobody told them these programs exist. Here are the three to know about.
1. Extra Help (for prescription drug costs)
Extra Help is a federal program that lowers Medicare drug coverage costs — premiums, deductibles, and copays. Income and resource limits apply and change each year. You can apply through Social Security at ssa.gov or 1-800-772-1213, and applying is free.
2. Medicare Savings Programs (for Part B premiums and more)
Medicare Savings Programs are state programs that can pay the monthly Part B premium — $202.90 in 2026 — and, for some levels, deductibles and coinsurance too. In California you apply through your county social services office. Income limits apply and change each year, and California has made these programs easier to qualify for than many people expect.
3. Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid)
Some Californians qualify for both Medicare and Medi-Cal. When that happens, Medi-Cal can help with costs Medicare does not cover, and different coverage rules may apply. If you think you might qualify, it is worth checking — California expanded eligibility in recent years.
How to check, step by step
1. Gather a recent statement of your monthly income.
2. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 about Extra Help, or apply at ssa.gov.
3. Ask Fresno County social services about Medicare Savings Programs and Medi-Cal.
4. Get free counseling from California's HICAP at 1-800-434-0222.
5. Or ask Frank — checking whether these programs might apply to you is part of a free review: schedule here or call 559-862-5615.