Social Security and Medicare are quintessential parts of the American Dream. These are not entitlement programs but earned benefits that are designed to help you retire with grace and dignity.
House Democrats are dedicated to protecting Social Security and Medicare.
Accessing Social Security
And for almost 90 years, Social Security has helped seniors, veterans and children as one of our most effective anti-poverty programs across our country keeping 22.5 million Americans above the poverty line every year. Over 70 million Americans rely on Social Security to help meet their everyday needs, including 115,000 right here in New York’s 8th Congressional District who receive $170 million in monthly benefits.
You or a loved one may qualify for Social Security if you have aged and retired, are unable to work because of a disability, lost a spouse, a young child loses a parent or if you are experiencing difficulties paying for essentials.
You can learn more about benefits and your rate, check eligibility and help protect yourself against scams by visiting SSA.gov or calling 1-800-772-1213.
Accessing Medicare
Last year, under the leadership of President Biden and in partnership with Democrats in the Senate, House Democrats passed the Inflation Reduction Act to combat the climate crisis, strengthen the Affordable Care Act and lower the high price of prescription drugs.
Because of this legislation, Medicare now has the power to negotiate prices with drug companies, driving down the cost of some of the most expensive medications Americans take to treat heart disease, cancer, diabetes and more
For more information about Medicare eligibility and enrollment, visit SSA.gov/medicare/sign-up.
Lowering Prescription Drug Costs
If you are struggling with prescription drug costs, the Medicare Part D Extra Help Program can help pay for drug coverage premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and out-of-pockets costs. If you make less than $22,000 a year, you should consider applying.
For more information about the Medicare Part D Extra Help program, visit the Social Security Administration website at ssa.gov/extrahelp. You can also call the Social Security Office at 1-800-772-1213.
If you need any assistance, contact my office. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you are having any problems with a government agency or are experiencing a quality-of-life issue you need help with.