If you’re struggling to afford your Medicare premiums, deductibles, or coinsurance—you might qualify for a Medicare Savings Program (MSP).
These programs help low-income individuals pay for some or all of their Medicare costs. Millions of people are eligible but don’t even know it.
Let’s break it down simply.
What’s Inside
- What Is a Medicare Savings Program?
- Types of Medicare Savings Programs
- How Much Can I Save?
- Who Qualifies?
- How to Apply for a Medicare Savings Program
- Final Word
What Is a Medicare Savings Program?
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-run programs that help cover your:
- Medicare Part A premiums
- Medicare Part B premiums
- And in some cases, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments
These programs are funded jointly by Medicare and Medicaid, and eligibility depends on income and asset limits set by your state.
📌 In New York, these programs are offered through NY State of Health and can significantly lower your monthly costs.
Types of Medicare Savings Programs
There are 4 types of MSPs—each with slightly different qualifications and benefits:
| Program Name | What It Helps Pay | Who It’s For |
| QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) | Part A + B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance | Very low income |
| SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) | Part B premium | Slightly higher income |
| QI (Qualifying Individual) | Part B premium | Higher income limit than SLMB |
| QDWI (Qualified Disabled & Working Individual) | Part A premium | For working, disabled individuals under 65 |
👉 Not sure which you qualify for? Our Medicare support team can help you apply
How Much Can I Save?
If you’re approved for an MSP, you could:
- Pay $0 for your Part B premium (saving $174.70/month in 2025)
- Avoid deductibles and 20% coinsurance
- Automatically qualify for Extra Help with prescription drugs
That’s over $2,000 per year in savings—without changing your Medicare plan.
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Who Qualifies?
In 2025, to qualify for QMB in New York:
- Individual monthly income: Up to $1,549
- Couple monthly income: Up to $2,080
- Assets/resources: No longer counted in NY for MSP eligibility
(Income limits are higher for SLMB and QI.)
💡 If you’re close to the limit, still apply—some deductions may apply.
👉 Need help with the paperwork? Talk to our health insurance consulting team
How to Apply for a Medicare Savings Program
- Contact your local Medicaid office
(Or in NY, apply through NY State of Health) - Submit documentation like:
- Social Security card
- Proof of Medicare coverage
- Proof of income (e.g., Social Security statement, pension, wages)
- ID and address
- Social Security card
- Get approved and your savings begin the following month in most cases
Need help applying? SecureSafer offers free enrollment assistance.
Final Word
A Medicare Savings Program can be life-changing—covering major out-of-pocket costs and giving you peace of mind.
If you’re on a fixed income, don’t miss out on this hidden benefit.📞 Call SecureSafer at (646) 444-2020 or chat live on SecureSafer.com
We’re here Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM to walk you through the process.
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