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Medicare Savings Program

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The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) is a federally-funded program that helps certain low-income Medicare beneficiaries pay for some or all of their Medicare premiums and, in some cases, other out-of-pocket expenses. The MSP is administered by state Medicaid agencies and is available to individuals who
meet specific income and asset criteria.


There are several types of Medicare Savings Programs, each with its own eligibility requirements and benefits:

 

  • Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program: The QMB program helps eligible individuals pay for Medicare Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. QMB beneficiaries are considered "eligible" because they qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid benefits. The program covers most Medicare cost-sharing expenses, effectively making Medicare services virtually free for QMB enrollees.

 

  • Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program: The SLMB program assists eligible individuals in paying for Medicare Part B premiums only. SLMB beneficiaries are responsible for Medicare Part A premiums, as well as any deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments associated with Medicare services. The SLMB program helps beneficiaries who have limited income but are not eligible for full Medicaid benefits.

 

  • Qualified Individual (QI) Program: The QI program is similar to the SLMB program but has slightly higher income limits. It helps eligible individuals pay for Medicare Part B premiums only. Like the SLMB program, QI beneficiaries are responsible for Medicare Part A premiums and other cost-sharing expenses.

 

  • Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program: The QDWI program is for disabled individuals under age 65 who are working, have lost their premium-free Medicare Part A coverage due to returning to work, and meet income and resource limits. It helps pay for Medicare Part A premiums. Eligibility for the Medicare Savings Program is based on income and asset limits set by the federal government and may vary slightly by state. Beneficiaries must meet income and asset criteria established by their states Medicaid agency to qualify for assistance through the MSP. The Medicare Savings Program helps low-income Medicare beneficiaries afford essential healthcare coverage and services, reducing their financial burden and improving access to necessary medical care. Individuals interested in applying for the MSP should contact their states Medicaid agency or their local Social Security office for more information on eligibility criteria and how to apply.

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This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by the government or federal Medicare program. 

Participating sales agencies represent Medicare Advantage [HMO, PPO, PFFS, and PDP] organizations that are contracted with Medicare. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. We do not offer every plan in your area. Please contact medicare.gov or 1-800-Medicare to get information on all your options.

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