Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-administered, federally funded programs that help people with limited income pay Medicare costs. Four MSPs: (1) Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) - pays Part A/B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments; (2) Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) - pays Part B premium only; (3) Qualifying Individual (QI) - pays Part B premium (first-come first-served annual); (4) Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) - pays Part A premium for disabled workers. Enrollment in QMB, SLMB, or QI also automatically qualifies you for Extra Help with Part D prescription costs.

Who qualifies

A quick look at who this program is designed to help.

Must have Medicare Part A. Income limits (2025 federal; some states are more generous): QMB ≤ 100% FPL (~$1,325/mo single, $1,783/mo couple); SLMB ≤ 120% FPL; QI ≤ 135% FPL; QDWI ≤ 200% FPL for disabled workers under 65. Resource limits: ~$9,660 single / $14,470 married (QMB/SLMB/QI); $4,000/$6,000 (QDWI). Home and one vehicle don't count. Several states (e.g., AL, AZ, CT, DC, ME, MS, NY, VT) have eliminated or raised asset limits.

What you'll need

Have these ready before you start the application.

• Medicare card, Social Security card, proof of income (recent pay stubs, Social Security/SSI award letter, pension statements), bank statements and proof of other resources, proof of residency, immigration documents if applicable.

How it works

1. Contact your state Medicaid office (Medicare Savings Programs are administered through Medicaid even though you don't have to be on Medicaid). Find it at medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs or call 1-800-MEDICARE. 2. Submit an application - many states have combined MSP + Extra Help applications. 3. Provide proof of income, resources, Medicare card, and residency. 4. If approved, benefits usually start the month after approval, and SSA stops deducting the Part B premium from your Social Security check.