### Question
How is the term coverage year defined?


### Answer
The term **coverage year** is defined in *42 U.S.C. § 1395w* as the following:

> a calendar year in which covered part D drugs are dispensed if the claim for such drugs (and payment on such claim) is made not later than such period after the end of such year as the Secretary specifies

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 1395w*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 7-SOCIAL SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER XVIII-HEALTH INSURANCE FOR AGED AND DISABLED > Part D-Voluntary Prescription Drug Benefit Program > subpart 2-prescription drug plans; pdp sponsors; financing**

