Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
💰 Save $2,000+ Per Year on Medicare Costs
Medicare Savings Programs are state Medicaid programs that help pay your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance. Most people who qualify don't even know these programs exist.
What Are Medicare Savings Programs?
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are administered by your state Medicaid office. They help people with limited income and resources pay for Medicare costs. There are three main levels of assistance, each with different income limits and benefits.
The Three Main Programs
| Program | What It Pays | Income Limit (Single) | Income Limit (Couple) |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB | Part A & B premiums, deductibles, co-insurance | ~$1,275/mo | ~$1,724/mo |
| SLMB | Part B premium only | ~$1,526/mo | ~$2,064/mo |
| QI | Part B premium (grant-funded, reapply yearly) | ~$1,715/mo | ~$2,320/mo |
Income limits are approximate and vary by state. Contact your state Medicaid office for exact figures.
Dual Eligibility & DSNP Plans
If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid, you are "dual eligible." This unlocks access to Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (DSNPs) — a special type of Medicare Advantage plan designed for low-income beneficiaries.
DSNP Benefits Include:
- ✓ Combined Medicare and Medicaid coverage in one plan
- ✓ Grocery and food allowances (often $100+/month)
- ✓ Free transportation to medical appointments
- ✓ Utility bill assistance
- ✓ Dental, vision, and hearing coverage
2025 Medicaid Eligibility (approximate)
| Gross monthly income limit | ~$2,991 |
| Asset limit (individual) | $2,000 |
Your primary home, one car, and burial plots are excluded from the asset count.
How to Apply
Option 1: Contact Your State Medicaid Office
MSPs are administered at the state level. Contact your local Department of Job and Family Services or Medicaid office to apply.
Option 2: Call Medicare
Call 1-800-633-4227 (TTY: 1-877-486-2048) for help finding your state program.
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Option 3: Check BenefitsCheckUp.org
Use the National Council on Aging's free screening tool to check your eligibility for MSPs and other benefits.
Check Your Benefits at BenefitsCheckUp.org →Option 4: Find a SHIP Counselor
Get free, unbiased help from a trained Medicare counselor in your state.
Find Your Local SHIP Counselor →Infographic: Navigating Medicare Savings
📞 Get Free Help Applying
Medicare: 1-800-633-4227 (24/7)
Your State SHIP: Find free local counseling
BenefitsCheckUp: benefitscheckup.org