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(Washington, D.C.) The deadline for low-income persons to sign up for
a Medicare drug discount card that may qualify them to receive a $1200
credit for their medication in 2005 is December 31, 2004. U.S. Senators
Blanche Lincoln and Mark Pryor, and Representatives Vic Snyder, John Boozman,
Mike Ross, and Marion Berry advised today that seniors must sign up for
the drug discount cards by the end of December to receive a $600 credit
for 2004, which can be carried over to 2005.
The delegation is concerned that while seniors can still apply for the
discount drug cards next year, if eligible, they will forfeit the $600
credit from 2004 if not signed up by December 31st. They also suggested
that if Arkansans are traveling and visiting elderly and low-income relatives
this holiday season, it would be a good topic to discuss and encourage.
If a single person's income is no more than $12,569, or a married couple’s
income is no more than $16,862, and have no other prescription coverage,
they may qualify for a $600 credit to help pay for prescription drugs.
If qualified, Medicare will apply a $600 credit to the Medicare-approved
drug discount card.
A person can receive the $600 credit for 2005 as long as they enroll
during the first quarter of 2005. However, if enrolled by December 31,
2004, seniors are eligible to receive a $600 credit for 2004, which can
be carried over to 2005. Added with the $600 credit for 2005, the total
credit toward prescriptions for 2005 would be $1200.
To sign up for the drug card, applicants may call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227)
or visit www.medicare.gov and select “Prescription Drug and Other Assistance
Programs.”
TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. |
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