Navigating the New Medicare Drug Plan

What if dad has veterans benefits?

A senior can have both VA and Part D benefits, and might want to use both. The VA might cover some drugs not on the Part D formulary (drug) list. You just can't get coverage for the same drug under both plans.

What if my mom, or her friends, can't afford even these low monthly premiums for Medicare Part D?

The government does have a program to assist low-income seniors in paying the monthly premium. Assistance is available to seniors with income less than $14,355, and for couples earning less than $19,245. To determine how much federal "Extra Help" assistance you qualify for, contact the Social Security Administration at [phone] or apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov. Your state may have additional programs to help low-income seniors. Contact your state Department on Aging.

Just one more thought. You already are helping to pay for this Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage through those FICA deductions from your paycheck. Now be sure to get your parents signed up so you don't wind up paying twice -- once in that payroll deduction, and a second time when you have to dig into your wallet to help mom and dad pay the bills. That's The Savage Truth.