Medicare Savings Programs 2026: Income and Resource Limits (QMB, SLMB, QI, QDWI)

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) help people with Medicare pay for premiums, deductibles, and other costs. Each state runs its own program. If you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, you also automatically get Extra Help paying for prescription drugs.

2026 Income and Resource Limits

There are four Medicare Savings Programs. Each has different income and resource limits. All amounts below are monthly income limits.

Important notes about limits

• Income limits are slightly higher in Alaska and Hawaii.
• Some states use higher limits than these federal minimums.
• Your state makes the final decision on whether you qualify.
• Qualifying Individual (QI) is first come, first served, so apply early.
• Even if your income is slightly over the limit, apply anyway. Some income does not count, and your state may have higher limits.

What Counts as Resources

Resources are things like money in checking and savings accounts, stocks and bonds. The following usually do not count:

• Your home
• One car
• A burial plot
• Household goods

Ask your state Medicaid office about the exact rules. Rules can vary by state.

How to Apply

You apply for Medicare Savings Programs through your state Medicaid office, not through Medicare. Contact your state to find out how to apply. Applying is free.

What to bring

Have the following documents ready:

• Proof of income (Social Security letter, pay stubs, pension statements)
• Bank statements showing your resources

Important: Qualifying Individual (QI) requires yearly renewal

If you qualify for the Qualifying Individual program, you must apply again every year. QI fills up first and is available only while funding lasts, so reapply early each year to stay covered.

What Happens After You Apply

Only your state's Medicaid agency decides whether you qualify. If you do, you'll learn which program you're eligible for and when your coverage starts. Your state may contact you for more information before making a decision.

Automatic Extra Help with Drugs

If you qualify for any Medicare Savings Program, you automatically qualify for Extra Help paying for prescription drugs. You don't need to apply separately. Extra Help pays part of your drug plan premiums, deductibles and copayments.

Why These Programs Matter

Medicare costs add up fast. QMB covers the most—premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and copayments for both Part A and Part B. SLMB and QI cover Part B premiums only. QDWI helps people with disabilities who are working and have returned to the workforce.

If you have Medicare and your income and resources are close to these limits, apply. Your state's rules may be more generous than the federal minimums.