Medicare Savings Programs

You can get help from your state paying your Medicare premiums. In some cases, Medicare Savings Programs may also pay Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments if you meet certain conditions listed under "How to Apply."

4 kinds of Medicare Savings Programs

If you have income from working, you may qualify for these 4 programs even if your income is higher than the income limits listed below.

If you qualify for a QMB, SLMB, or QI program, you automatically qualify to get Extra Help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage.

1. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program
2. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program  
3. Qualifying Individual (QI) Program  
   You must apply every year for QI benefits. QI applications are granted on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to people who got QI benefits the previous year. (You can't get QI benefits if you qualify for Medicaid).
4. Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program  
   The QDWI program helps pay the Part A premium. You may qualify if any of these apply to you:
   • You're a working disabled person under 65
   • You lost your premium-free Part A when you went back to work
   • You aren't getting medical assistance from your state
   • You meet the income and resource limits required by your state

How to apply for Medicare Savings Programs

If you answer yes to these 3 questions, call your State Medicaid Program to see if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program in your state:

1. Do you have, or are you eligible for, Part A?
2. Is your income for 2012 at, or below, the income limits below?
3. Do you have limited resources, below the limits below?

It's important to call or fill out an application if you think you could qualify for savings—even if your income or resources are higher than the amounts listed here.

Medicare Savings Program 2012 Income Limits

Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program

Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program

Qualifying Individual (QI) Program

Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program

Medicare Savings Program Resource Limits

How can I keep my costs down?

• Make sure your Medicare card is valid and that you've paid your Part B premium.
• Go to a doctor, other health care provider, or supplier that accepts assignment.
• Read about how to get help with medical and prescription drug costs.