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Your guide to healthcare support

Medicare Savings Programs
A clearer place to start.

Helps pay Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays.

Free results · About 3 minutes · No account needed

The program at a glance
What it helps with
Healthcare
Administered by
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Typical processing estimate
30–60 days
Cost to apply directly
Free

Your state agency decides eligibility and benefit amounts. This guide helps you get oriented.

The basics

Understand the support.

Medicare Savings Programs is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Saves $170–$250/month in Medicare premiums

Four programs: QMB, SLMB, QI, QDWI.

Benefits depend on your household and the program’s rules. A possible match is a starting point, not an approval.

Who may qualify

Start with your household.

These are some of the factors the program considers. State rules and additional requirements may apply.

Income

135% of the poverty level

A general income reference. Deductions and state rules can change the applicable limit.

Age

65 or older

Where you live

Check your state’s rules

Your state guide brings together application links and local requirements.

Choose your state
Income reference

See how household size matters.

The 2026 federal poverty guidelines provide a reference point. This table is illustrative; confirm the program’s current limits with your state.

Medicare Savings Programs illustrative income threshold in the contiguous US: 135% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Based on 2026 HHS poverty guidelines. Program effective dates, deductions and state rules may differ; confirm with the agency.

Household Size2026 FPLAnnual Limit (135%)Monthly Limit
1 person$15,960$21,546$1,796
2 people$21,640$29,214$2,435
3 people$27,320$36,882$3,074
4 people$33,000$44,550$3,713
5 people$38,680$52,218$4,352
6 people$44,360$59,886$4,991
7 people$50,040$67,554$5,630
8 people$55,720$75,222$6,269

Each additional person adds approximately $5,680 to the FPL base ($7,668 at 135%).

What to gather

A little preparation helps.

Your agency will confirm exactly what it needs. These documents are a useful place to start.

  • Medicare card
  • Proof of income
  • Social Security card
  • Bank statements

You do not need to upload documents or provide your Social Security number to take our free quiz.

Find your state

Your next step is closer to home.

Explore local requirements and where to apply for Medicare Savings Programs.

View all 51 states and districts
Visit the official program website
Common questions

A few things to know.

What is Medicare Savings Programs?

Helps pay Medicare premiums, deductibles, and copays.

How much is Medicare Savings Programs worth?

$1,700 to $3,000 per year. Saves $170–$250/month in Medicare premiums

What documents do I need?

You'll need: Medicare card, Proof of income, Social Security card, Bank statements.

How long does processing take?

30-60 days from submission.

How often do I renew?

Every 12 months.

Your next step

See what may fit your household.

Answer a few questions to explore your possible matches and free application links. No account needed.

Find my benefits →

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