Medicare Savings Programs (MSP)

Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) are state-administered programs that help individuals with limited income and resources pay their Medicare costs. Depending on the specific program, an MSP can cover Medicare Part B premiums and, in some cases, Part A premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance.

Program Types and Benefits

There are four primary types of Medicare Savings Programs. If a beneficiary qualifies for QMB, SLMB, or QI, they automatically qualify for Extra Help (LIS) to pay for prescription drug costs.

Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)

  • Benefits: Pays for Part A premiums, Part B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
  • Requirement: Providers are legally prohibited from billing QMB patients for Medicare-covered services.

Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)

  • Benefits: Pays for the Part B premium ($202.90 in 2026) only.

Qualifying Individual (QI)

  • Benefits: Pays for the Part B premium only.
  • Note: Individuals must apply every year, and benefits are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Qualified Disabled and Working Individual (QDWI)

  • Benefits: Pays for the Part A premium only.
  • Target: Specifically for disabled individuals who returned to work and lost their premium-free Part A.

Eligibility (New Jersey)

ProgramIndividual Income Limit (Monthly)Married Couple Income Limit (Monthly)Resource (Asset) Limit
QMB$1,350$1,824$9,950 (Indiv.) / $14,910 (Couple)
SLMB$1,616$2,184$9,950 (Indiv.) / $14,910 (Couple)
QI$1,816$2,455$9,950 (Indiv.) / $14,910 (Couple)
QDWI$5,405$7,299$4,000 (Indiv.) / $6,000 (Couple)

*Some states, like New York or Connecticut, may have higher limits or no asset test.

How to Apply

  • SSA.gov: Apply for Extra Help for prescription drug costs (may apply with MSP at the same time).

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