If you have Medicare and a limited income, several federal programs can eliminate or drastically reduce your out-of-pocket costs. The Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are the main options. In 2026, these programs cover the $202.90 monthly Part B premium, deductibles, and copays for millions of people who qualify. A separate program called Extra Help reduces the cost of prescription drugs under Part D. Together, these programs can save beneficiaries $3,000 or more per year.
This guide covers all four Medicare Savings Programs, their 2026 income and asset limits, what each one pays for, and how to apply.
What Are Medicare Savings Programs?
Medicare Savings Programs are state-administered programs funded by Medicaid that help people with Medicare cover costs that Medicare itself does not pay. There are four distinct programs, each with different income thresholds and different levels of coverage.
All four programs require you to have Medicare Part A (hospital insurance). Most applicants also have Part B (medical insurance), though QMB is the only program that covers Part A premiums for people who would otherwise have to pay them.
Enrollment in any Medicare Savings Program also automatically qualifies you for Extra Help with Part D prescription drug costs, which is an added benefit worth knowing.
The 4 Medicare Savings Programs in 2026
1. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)
QMB is the most comprehensive of the four programs. It covers:
- Medicare Part A premiums (for those who owe them)
- Medicare Part B premiums ($202.90/month in 2026)
- Medicare deductibles for Part A and Part B
- Medicare coinsurance and copayments
Providers who accept Medicare are prohibited by federal law from billing QMB enrollees for Medicare cost-sharing. This protection is strong but frequently violated. If a provider bills you and you have QMB, you can report the issue to your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) or your state Medicaid office.
2. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
SLMB covers the Medicare Part B premium only. At $202.90 per month in 2026, that amounts to $2,434.80 in annual savings. SLMB does not cover deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments.
3. Qualifying Individual (QI)
QI also covers the Medicare Part B premium. The income limit is slightly higher than SLMB, so it reaches people who earn a bit too much for SLMB but still need assistance.
Unlike the other programs, QI is funded through a capped federal grant. States process applications on a first-come, first-served basis. If funding runs out for the year, new applicants may be waitlisted. You must reapply for QI every year.
4. Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI)
QDWI is a narrower program for people who lost premium-free Part A coverage when they returned to work after a disability. It pays only the Part A premium, which can be up to $518 per month in 2026 depending on your work history. This program has strict income and asset limits.
2026 Income and Asset Limits by Program
The income limits below apply in most states. Alaska and Hawaii have higher limits. Some states have expanded their income thresholds above the federal minimums, so you may qualify even if your income is slightly above these figures.
| Program | Individual Monthly Income | Couple Monthly Income | Covers |
|---|
| QMB | Up to $1,350 | Up to $1,824 | Part A + B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, copays |
| SLMB | Up to $1,616 | Up to $2,184 | Part B premium only |
| QI | Up to $1,816 | Up to $2,455 | Part B premium only |
| QDWI | Up to $2,010 | Up to $2,714 | Part A premium only |
Asset Limits
Assets (also called resources) include bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. They do not include your primary home, one car, personal belongings, or the value of your life insurance policy below a set amount.
| Program | Individual Asset Limit | Couple Asset Limit |
|---|
| QMB | $9,660 | $14,470 |
| SLMB | $9,660 | $14,470 |
| QI | $9,950 | $14,910 |
| QDWI | $4,000 | $6,000 |
Note: Some states have eliminated asset tests for MSPs entirely. Check with your state Medicaid office to confirm whether assets are counted in your state.
Extra Help: Assistance with Medicare Part D Drug Costs
Extra Help (also called the Low-Income Subsidy or LIS) is a separate federal program that reduces the cost of prescription drugs under Medicare Part D. In 2026, it covers:
- The Part D premium (up to the benchmark amount in your region)
- The Part D deductible (reduced to $0 for full subsidy recipients)
- Copayments capped at $5.10 for generic drugs and $12.65 for brand-name drugs per prescription
Extra Help 2026 Income and Asset Limits
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|
| Individual | $23,475 | $1,956 |
| Married couple | $31,725 | $2,644 |
Asset limits for Extra Help in 2026 are $18,090 for individuals and $36,100 for couples. These limits are significantly more generous than the MSP asset limits.
If you are enrolled in any Medicare Savings Program, you automatically qualify for full Extra Help. You do not need to apply separately.
You can also apply directly for Extra Help through Social Security even if you do not qualify for an MSP.
How to Apply for Medicare Savings Programs
MSPs are administered by each state's Medicaid office, not by Medicare or Social Security directly. Here are the steps to apply.
Step 1: Check your income and assets.
Compare your monthly income and countable assets to the limits in the table above. Remember that Social Security income, pension payments, and wages all count. Certain income exclusions apply, so it is worth applying even if you are close to or slightly above a limit.
Step 2: Contact your state Medicaid office.
You can find your state office at medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Many states allow online applications through their Medicaid portal.
Step 3: Complete the application.
You will typically need to provide proof of income (such as a Social Security award letter or pay stubs), proof of Medicare enrollment, proof of identity and residency, and a list of your assets.
Step 4: Wait for a determination.
States are required to process MSP applications within 45 days in most cases. Some states process them faster. You may be contacted for additional documentation.
Step 5: Get confirmation and use your benefits.
If approved, you will receive a notice from your state. Your Part B premium will stop being deducted from your Social Security check, and QMB protections will take effect immediately with providers.
Applying for Extra Help
You can apply for Extra Help in two ways:
- Online at SSA.gov. Visit ssa.gov/medicare/part-d and complete the application. Social Security will process it and notify you.
- By phone. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778.
- At your local Social Security office. Bring proof of income, assets, Medicare enrollment, and identity.
If you apply for Medicaid or an MSP, the state may automatically screen you for Extra Help.
Who Is Automatically Enrolled in Extra Help?
Certain people qualify for Extra Help automatically without needing to apply:
- People enrolled in full Medicaid (not just an MSP)
- People who receive SSI benefits
- People enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program (QMB, SLMB, or QI)
If you fall into one of these categories, Social Security should notify you by mail that you have been enrolled. If you think you qualify but did not receive a notice, call Social Security to confirm your status.
Other Programs That Help with Medicare Costs
Beyond the MSPs and Extra Help, a few other programs provide additional assistance.
SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program). Free, unbiased counseling through trained volunteers who can help you understand your Medicare options, review your costs, and find programs you qualify for. Every state has a SHIP office. You can find yours at shiphelp.org.
Medicaid. If your income is low enough for full Medicaid, that program can cover costs Medicare does not, including long-term care, vision, and dental. Full Medicaid recipients are automatically enrolled in Extra Help.
PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly). For people who are 55 or older, eligible for nursing home care, and living in a PACE service area, this program provides comprehensive care including medical, social, and long-term services. Many PACE participants pay little or nothing if they have Medicaid.
State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs (SPAPs). Some states have their own drug assistance programs that layer on top of Part D and Extra Help to reduce costs further. These vary by state. Check with your state department of aging or health.
How Benefits Navigator Can Help
Figuring out which of these programs you qualify for takes time. Benefits Navigator offers a free eligibility screener that checks your situation against MSPs, Extra Help, Medicaid, SNAP, and more than a dozen other programs at once.
Run a free check at /screener to see what you may qualify for in minutes. No account needed and no obligation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the income limit for Medicare Savings Programs in 2026?
The income limit depends on which program you are looking at. QMB, the most comprehensive program, covers individuals with monthly income up to $1,350 and couples up to $1,824. SLMB goes up to $1,616 for individuals and $2,184 for couples. QI goes up to $1,816 for individuals and $2,455 for couples. Some states have higher limits than these federal minimums.
Does Social Security income count toward the Medicare Savings Program income limit?
Yes, Social Security benefits count as income for MSP eligibility purposes. However, states apply a standard exclusion of $20 per month from your counted income. Certain other income types may also be partially excluded depending on your state's rules.
Can I get help with Medicare costs if I have savings or assets?
Yes, the asset limits for most MSPs are fairly generous. QMB and SLMB allow up to $9,660 in assets for individuals. QI allows up to $9,950. Some states have eliminated asset tests entirely. Your home and one vehicle do not count toward the asset limit.
What is the difference between Extra Help and a Medicare Savings Program?
Medicare Savings Programs help with Part A and Part B costs such as premiums, deductibles, and copayments. Extra Help (also called Low-Income Subsidy) specifically reduces costs under Medicare Part D prescription drug plans. Enrolling in an MSP automatically qualifies you for Extra Help, but you can also apply for Extra Help directly through Social Security even if you do not qualify for an MSP.
How do I apply for Medicare Savings Programs?
You apply through your state Medicaid office, not through Medicare or Social Security. Many states accept online applications. You can find your state's office by visiting medicare.gov or calling 1-800-MEDICARE. Some states also allow you to apply by phone or by mailing a paper form.
Do I have to reapply for these programs every year?
For QMB, SLMB, and full Medicaid-based programs, your enrollment is generally renewed automatically as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. QI is the exception: you must reapply each year, and benefits are granted on a first-come, first-served basis due to capped federal funding.
What if a doctor tries to bill me when I have QMB?
This is illegal. Providers who accept Medicare cannot bill QMB enrollees for Medicare cost-sharing amounts. If a provider bills you, tell them you have QMB and ask them to check your coverage. If the billing continues, contact your state Medicaid office or your local SHIP for assistance.
Is there help for Medicare drug costs in 2026?
Yes, Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) reduces Part D drug costs significantly in 2026. The income limit is $23,475 per year for individuals and $31,725 for couples. Copayments are capped at $5.10 for generics and $12.65 for brand-name drugs. Apply through Social Security at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Can I apply for Extra Help online?
Yes. Social Security accepts Extra Help applications online at ssa.gov/medicare/part-d. You can also apply by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or in person at a Social Security office.
What if my income is slightly above the limit?
It is still worth applying. States use slightly different counting rules, and certain income exclusions may bring your counted income below the limit. Income from part-time work may be partially excluded. States also have the option to extend their limits above federal minimums, and many do.
