Support programs for seniors and Californians
As a Medicare member, you may qualify for county, state, and federal programs. These programs can support your health needs and lower costs. These are not Blue Shield of California programs. However, we can help connect you with these services. Medicare Supplement plan members should confirm with a Medicare adviser.
California Medicare Savings Programs
Medicare Savings programs help cover Medicare Part A and Part B premiums and coinsurance amounts. Find out if you're eligible for a Medicare Savings Program or call the DHCS Medi-Cal Member Helpline at (800) 541-5555, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are available Monday through Friday.
Medi-Cal: How to apply and renew
Lower-income Medicare members may also qualify for Medi-Cal. See if you qualify for Medi-Cal. If you already have Medi-Cal and Medicare (known as dual eligibility), find resources to keep your Medi-Cal eligibility. You can also call the DHCS Medi-Cal Member Helpline at (800) 541-5555, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are available Monday through Friday.
Part D Low Income Subsidy (also known as Extra Help)
Some Medicare members may be eligible for the Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) Low Income Subsidy Program (also known as Extra Help). This program lowers the cost of prescription drug copays and Part D premiums. Learn more about the levels of support and if you qualify. You can also call Social Security toll-free at (800) 772-1213 [TTY: 800-325-0778], 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. They are available Monday through Friday.
For questions about dual eligibility, the Medicare Savings Program, Medi-Cal eligibility renewal or Part D Low Income Subsidy, call our Dual Retention team at (844) 378-4181 (TTY: 711), 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are available Monday through Friday.
CalFresh provides monthly food benefits to low-income individuals and families. The program gives monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card. You may buy food at any grocery store or farmer’s market that accepts EBT cards. Learn more online at CalFresh. You can also call the CalFresh Helpline at (877) 847-3663.
Elder Locator
The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging. It connects older adults, caregivers, and their families to services. Learn more online at Eldercare Locator. You can also call them at (800) 677-1116.
California Area Agencies on Aging
The California Department of Aging (CDA) manages programs that serve older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and those in long-term care facilities. The services are provided locally by county-contracted agencies. They can be found by service area.
Help includes:
- Nutrition services
- Provider services
- In-home supportive services
- Multi-purpose senior services
- Long-term care, provider, and caregiver services
- Senior employment services
The California Department for Community Services and Development (CSD) has programs that can help low-income Californians with energy and water utility bills. You can call the CSD at (866) 675-6623.
2-1-1 is a free information and referral program that connects people to services in their community. 2-1-1 is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It serves people of all incomes, languages, backgrounds, and areas. Get help and learn more about services for housing, food, transportation, mental health, and more.
Findhelp is a social care network that connects people to support programs. Search to find financial aid programs, food pantries, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help.
Community Resource Centers: Blue Shield Promise and LA Care
Blue Shield Promise and LA Care Health Plan offer resource centers in Los Angeles County at 14 different locations. The centers are open to all Blue Shield members and the general public.
Help includes:
- Member and enrollment support
- Free Wi-Fi for telehealth services
- Help with assistance programs
- Free food pantries
- Fitness classes
Blue Shield of California is an HMO, HMO D-SNP, and a PDP plan with a Medicare contract and a contract with the California State Medicaid Program. Enrollment in Blue Shield of California depends on contract renewal.
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Page last updated: 1/30/2026