20 CFR § 418.3201 - Must you file an application to become eligible for a subsidy?

---
identifier: "/us/cfr/t20/s418.3201"
source: "ecfr"
legal_status: "authoritative_unofficial"
title: "20 CFR § 418.3201 - Must you file an application to become eligible for a subsidy?"
title_number: 20
title_name: "Employees' Benefits"
section_number: "418.3201"
section_name: "Must you file an application to become eligible for a subsidy?"
chapter_name: "SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION"
part_number: "418"
part_name: "MEDICARE SUBSIDIES"
positive_law: false
currency: "2026-04-05"
last_updated: "2026-04-05"
format_version: "1.1.0"
generator: "[email protected]"
regulatory_source: "70 FR 77675, Dec. 30, 2005, unless otherwise noted."
cfr_part: "418"
---


# 418.3201 Must you file an application to become eligible for a subsidy?

Unless you are a person covered by § 418.3105, in addition to meeting other requirements, you or your personal representative must file an application to become eligible for a subsidy. If you believe you may be eligible for a subsidy, you should file an application. Filing a subsidy application does not commit you to participate in the Part D program. Filing an application will:

(a) Permit us to make a formal determination on your eligibility for the subsidy and whether you should receive a full or partial subsidy;

(b) Assure that you can receive the subsidy for any months that you are eligible and are enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan or Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage; and

(c) Give you the right to appeal if you disagree with our determination.