Paying for Medicare can be overwhelming, especially when you’re on a fixed income. The good news? You may not have to do it alone. Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are designed to help you pay for premiums and other Medicare costs. Whether you’re new to Medicare or have been enrolled for years, it’s worth checking to see if you qualify. These programs can put money back in your pocket—and give you peace of mind.

What Are Medicare Savings Programs?

Medicare Savings Programs are run by your state’s Medicaid office. If you qualify, these programs help pay for your:

  • Part A premiums
  • Part B premiums
  • Deductibles
  • Coinsurance
  • Copayments

If you're approved for an MSP, you'll also automatically qualify for Extra Help, a federal program that lowers your costs for Medicare prescription drug plans (Part D). That means savings on your drug premiums, deductibles, and copays too.

The Four Types of MSPs

  1. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program: This program helps pay for Part A and Part B premiums and may also cover deductibles, co-insurance, and co-payments.
  2. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program: The SLMB program pays for Part B premiums for individuals with slightly higher incomes than those who qualify for QMB.
  3. Qualifying Individual (QI) Program: This program also covers Part B premiums but is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  4. Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program: This program helps pay for Part A premiums for certain disabled individuals who have returned to work.

Who Is Eligible?

Each state sets its own rules, but most follow federal income and resource guidelines.

You may qualify for an MSP if:

  • Your monthly income is around 135% of the Federal Poverty Level or less. This limit varies by program and state.
  • Your resources (like savings, stocks, or bonds—not including your home or car) are limited.

For example, in 2025:

  • If you’re single, your resources generally must be below $9,660.
  • If you’re married, your resources typically must be below $14,470.

These numbers are general guidelines. Some states have more generous rules, and not all assets count against you. Things like your home, car, and personal belongings are usually not included.

Tip: Always check with your state Medicaid office or a SHIP counselor to get the most accurate and up-to-date information.

How to Apply

Applying is easier than you might think—and help is available every step of the way.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Check Eligibility: Visit your state’s Medicaid website or call to ask about current income and asset limits. SHIP counselors can also help (visit shiphelp.org
  2. Gather Documents:
  3. You may need:
  4. Social Security card
  5. Proof of income (Social Security statements, pension)
  6. Bank statements
  7. Utility bills
  8. Medicare car
  9. Complete the Application:
  10. Most states allow you to apply:
  11. Online
  12. By mail
  13. In person at a Medicaid office
  14. Submit and Track: Make copies of everything. After submitting, follow up with your Medicaid office to confirm they received your documents.
  15. Wait for a Decision: If approved, your benefits may begin as early as the month you applied. If denied, you can appeal.

What Happens After You're Approved?

Once you're approved:

  • Your Medicare Part B premium may be paid directly (which means more in your Social Security check).
  • You’ll get Extra Help automatically for prescription costs.
  • Your providers cannot bill you for charges MSPs cover (especially under QMB).

Even if you think your income is too high, it’s still worth applying. States exclude some income and resources in their calculations.

Denied? Don't Give Up

If you’re denied, you have the right to appeal. You may also qualify for other savings programs such as:

  • Extra Help for drug costs
  • Medicaid for broader coverage
  • State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs)

Get help from a SHIP counselor or visit Medicare.gov to explore more options.

If you're living on a limited income, you shouldn't have to choose between healthcare and groceries. Medicare Savings Programs are here to help. Take the first step—check your eligibility and apply. You might be surprised at how much you can save.