Benchmark Plans
Benchmark plans are Part D prescription drug plans that offer a basic (not enhanced) benefit with premiums at or below the regional low-income premium threshold set by CMS. Beneficiaries who qualify for the full Low Income Subsidy can enroll in a benchmark plan with no monthly premium.
Definition
Benchmark plans are Part D prescription drug plans that offer a basic (not enhanced) benefit with premiums at or below the regional low-income premium threshold set by CMS. Beneficiaries who qualify for the full Low Income Subsidy can enroll in a benchmark plan with no monthly premium.
Why it matters
They are the plans into which many Low Income Subsidy beneficiaries are auto-enrolled, so identifying available benchmark plans is central to no-cost drug coverage.
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