Call SelectQuote
Work with one of our licensed insurance agents to get answers to your Medicare questions, unbiased comparisons of coverage and resources to simplify the entire process. Call 1-833-574-3011 (TTY: 1-877-486-2048) to get started.
Ways to save on out-of-pocket Medicare costs.
SelectQuote’s licensed insurance agents can help make sure you’re getting the most out of your Medicare Advantage plan coverage.
Save on Medicare Costs: Extra Help, Medicare Savings Programs, and Dual Eligibility
While Original Medicare helps cover health costs, you are often responsible for expenses like premiums, deductibles, and copays. In 2026, the Part B premium has risen to $202.90 per month. This can be a burden on a fixed income, but there is good news: several programs can reduce or even eliminate these costs.
If you are looking for ways to lower Medicare costs or need help with Medicare long-term care, these savings programs are the key to unlocking state-funded support. Navigating your options can feel overwhelming, but we are here to help you find the savings you deserve.
Four Medicare Savings Programs: Programs to Help Pay for Medicare Copays
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-run programs that help people with limited income afford healthcare. These programs are your first line of defense against rising costs. Depending on which program you qualify for, your state may pay your premiums, deductibles, and Medicare copays.
1. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program is the most helpful of the four. It covers Medicare Part A (when applicable) and Medicare Part B premiums, deductibles, co-insurance payments.
Limit Type | Individual | Married Couple |
Monthly Income | ~$1,350 | ~$1,824 |
Assets/Resources | $9,950 | $14,910 |
Note: Limits may be higher in some states. For official guidance, visit .
3. Qualifying Individual (QI) Program
Like SLMB, the helps pay for Part B premiums. However, funding for these state pools is limited and granted on a first-come, first-served basis. In 2026, state funds may run low late in the year, so it is important to apply early.
2. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program
The Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program helps pay for your premiums. In 2026, the income limits are approximately $1,616 for individuals and $2,184 for couples. Because SLMB pays your $202.90 monthly premium, it is like getting a $2,434 raise per year.
4. Qualifying Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program
The Qualifying Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program helps working individuals with disabilities under 65 keep their Part A coverage by paying the monthly premium. If you have returned to work but still have a disability, this is a vital way to keep your insurance affordable.
Low-Income Subsidy (Extra Help Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage)
The Medicare Extra Help program helps you pay for Medicare Part D (prescription drug) costs. This is especially important in 2026, given the new $2,100 out-of-pocket cap on drug costs. If you qualify for Extra Help, you will pay much less than that.
Medicare Extra Help Asset Limits 2026
To qualify, your resources must be below $18,090 (Individual) or $36,100 (Couple). The good news is that the government does not count your primary home or one car toward these limits.
Reduced Copayments and Premiums
With Extra Help, most people will pay no more than $5.10 for generic drugs and $12.65 for brand-name drugs. If you have low income and Medicaid (dual eligibility), these costs can drop to as low as $1.60 for generics and $4.90 for brands.
Dual Eligibility Program (Medicare and Medicaid)
Dual eligibility means you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. While Medicare and Medicaid are different, they work together to provide more coverage.
Full Dual vs. Partial Dual Medicare Eligibility
It is important to know which type of help you receive:
Full Dual: You qualify for full Medicaid benefits. In this case, Medicaid pays for Medicare long-term care (like nursing home stays) and most other healthcare costs.
Partial Dual: You qualify for a Medicare Savings Program. This means you get help paying for premiums and deductibles, but not long-term care.
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (D-SNP) Benefits
A D-SNP is a special type of Medicare Advantage plan for dual-eligible seniors. Many offer $0 dental, vision, and hearing care.
Important for 2026: To get extra benefits like healthy food or utility cards, insurance companies now require doctor-verified chronic conditions (like diabetes or heart disease). These plans also provide Care Coordination, which means a dedicated team helps manage all your doctors and appointments in one place.
How to Apply for Medicare Savings Programs Online
Ready to start saving? Follow these three simple steps:
SSA.gov: Visit the Social Security website to apply for Extra Help (LIS) first.
State Portal: Apply for Medicaid or an MSP through your state’s social services or health department website.
Licensed Advisor: Call SelectQuote. Our licensed insurance agents can check if your specific plan supports these benefits and help you find the best coverage for your needs.
Explore Medicare Advantage Plans with SelectQuote
Our licensed agents specialize in helping you understand the details of Medicare. We help you find plans in your area that offer extra benefits and lower out-of-pocket costs, so you can feel more confident in your healthcare coverage. Our service is free, and there is no obligation to enroll.
We do the shopping. You do the saving.
No obligation to enroll
SelectQuote Senior Insurance Services is a division of SelectQuote Insurance Services. © 2026 SelectQuote Senior Insurance Services. All rights reserved.
Please see the Disclosures Page for more information.
MULTI-PLAN_SQSRW2026_M
Looking for an affordable Medicare plan? Let us help.
We’ll call you.
If you’re pressed for time, complete this form and a member of our team will call you at your selected time.