Medicare Savings Programs are administered by each state's Medicaid office and funded jointly with the federal government. There are four MSPs — each covering a different set of Medicare costs depending on your income level. Most people don't know they exist until a benefits counselor or a page like this tells them.
The Four Medicare Savings Programs
Pays Part A & B premiums, deductibles, and copays
The most comprehensive MSP. QMB pays your Part B premium ($185/mo), Part A premium if applicable, and your deductibles and copays for covered services. Providers cannot bill you for cost-sharing amounts if you are a QMB enrollee.
Pays Part B premium only
Covers your monthly Part B premium of $185 and also automatically qualifies you for Extra Help with Part D prescription drug costs. Income limits are slightly higher than QMB.
Pays Part B premium only — limited enrollment
Similar to SLMB but for slightly higher incomes. QI enrollment is capped — slots are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis each calendar year. Also grants automatic Extra Help.
Pays Part A premium for working disabled individuals
For people under 65 who lost premium-free Part A when they returned to work. QDWI pays the Part A premium ($518/month in 2026) for those who qualify. Income and asset limits apply.
2026 MSP Income Limits
Check eligibility| Program | Individual Income Limit | Couple Income Limit | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB | ~$1,255/mo ($15,060/yr) | ~$1,704/mo ($20,448/yr) | Part B premium, deductibles & copays |
| SLMB | ~$1,478/mo ($17,736/yr) | ~$1,992/mo ($23,904/yr) | Part B premium only + auto Extra Help |
| QI | ~$1,661/mo ($19,932/yr) | ~$2,239/mo ($26,868/yr) | Part B premium only + auto Extra Help (limited slots) |
| QDWI | ~$2,228/mo ($26,736/yr) | ~$3,003/mo ($36,036/yr) | Part A premium only (for working disabled, under 65) |
Asset limits were eliminated for QMB, SLMB, and QI in 2024. You no longer have to worry about savings accounts, retirement accounts, or home equity disqualifying you from the three largest MSPs. Only QDWI still has asset limits. State Medicaid offices set their own income calculation rules — some exclude certain types of income.
Qualifying for any MSP automatically enrolls you in Extra Help. Extra Help with Part D can save you another $5,000+ per year in drug costs. One application, two programs. Apply through your state Medicaid office or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
How to Apply for an MSP
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Check your income against the 2026 limits
Compare your monthly income (wages, SS, pensions, interest) to the limits above. Many income sources are partially or fully excluded — so even if you're over the limit at first glance, you may still qualify.
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Contact your state Medicaid office
MSPs are administered by state Medicaid programs, not Medicare. You can apply by calling 1-800-MEDICARE to be connected, visiting your local Social Security office, or applying directly through your state Medicaid office's website.
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Gather documentation
Bring your Medicare card, proof of income (SS award letter, recent bank statements), and proof of residence. Asset documentation is no longer required for QMB, SLMB, or QI since 2024.
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Get free help from your SHIP counselor
Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides free one-on-one benefits counseling. SHIP counselors can help you determine which program you qualify for and walk you through the application. Call 1-877-839-2675 to find your local SHIP.
Not Sure If You Qualify? The Checkup Will Tell You
The free Benefits Checkup screens you for all four MSPs plus every other federal and state program — in under 3 minutes.