Search

MSP: What Is the Medicare Savings Program All About? 

By Darius T.
Updated on September 25, 2024
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Unexpected job loss, significant health challenges, or rising costs of essentials can lead to financial difficulties, making it hard to keep up with your financial obligations. These added strains can make Medicare costs unaffordable. In such situations, the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) can provide much-needed relief. MSP assists eligible seniors and disabled individuals by helping to cover part of their Medicare expenses, allowing them to manage their financial commitments more effectively. Continue reading to learn how MSP works and how you can access its benefits.

Over 60 getting healthcare assistance thanks to the Medicare Savings Program (MSP).
MSP programs help millions of older adults and low-income beneficiaries pay their Medicare premiums.

What Is the Medicare Savings Program?

The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) is a federal and state health-funding initiative available in all US states. The program’s goal is to support eligible individuals, especially low-income earners, with financial support to pay part or all of their Medicare bills. 

The program is covered by Social Security, which is why the Social Security Medicare deduction 2024 payments include Medicare premiums, Part A and Part B deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. 

What Is the Difference Between Medicare and the Medicare Savings Program?

Medicare and MSPs (Medicare Savings Programs) are both designed to assist seniors aged 65 years or older in subsidizing their healthcare expenses. However, there are key differences between the two. Medicare provides health insurance coverage, offering flexibility by extending care to younger individuals with disabilities and those with permanent kidney diseases. In contrast, MSPs are exclusively for seniors and focus on providing payment support.

Another distinction lies in their funding and administration. Medicare is entirely funded at the federal level, whereas MSPs are collaborative initiatives managed jointly by federal and state governments.

Additionally, Medicare covers Parts A, B, C, and D premiums, while MSP covers only Parts A and B. 

What Are the Types of Medicare Savings Programs?

There are four programs under the MSP, each with various income limits and specific medical coverage. We highlight the examples of Medicare Savings Programs below:

1. The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program 

The QMB program covers Part A and Part B Medicare premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. If you qualify for this savings program under Medicare, the perks include:

  • Free services and items that Medicare normally covers 
  • A discounted Medicaid copayment, if it applies to you 
  • Additional help when paying for prescription drugs. In line with the Medicare Savings Programs 2024, you shouldn’t pay more than $11.20 for every drug in your Medicare prescription plan

2. The Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program

The SLMB Program covers Part B premiums, but you must also have a Part A premium to qualify. Besides the Part B premium payments, you can enjoy other benefits under the SLMB program, including:

  • Extra help paying for prescription drugs 
  • Not paying more than $11.20 for each drug in your Medicare prescription plan

3. The Qualifying Individual (QI) Program

The QI Program covers Part B premiums, but you must have Part A and B premiums to qualify. If eligible, you can enjoy additional benefits, such as:

  • Extra help for prescription payments 
  • Annual renewal based on your application 

4. The Qualified Disabled and Working Individual (QDWI) Program 

The QDWI pays only Part A premiums. As the name suggests, it is for people with a disability, those working, or people who lost their Medicare or other Social Security Benefits after returning to work.  

Who Is Eligible for MSP?  

At the basic level, you must meet the following qualifications to qualify for Medicare Savings Programs: 

So, what is the income limit for the Medicare Savings Program 2024? Here’s a detailed breakdown of what the eligibility limits are for each Medicare program:

The QMB Program

The monthly income and resource limits for QMB are highlighted below:

Monthly Income Limit Resource Limit 
Individuals$1,275$9,430
Couples$1,724$14,130
Source: Medicare Website 

The SLMB Program 

The monthly income and resource limits for the SLMB program are highlighted below:

Monthly Income Limit Resource Limit 
Individuals$1,526$9,430
Couples$2,064$14,130
Source: Medicare Website 

The QI Program 

The monthly income and resource limits for the QI program are highlighted below:

Monthly Income Limit Resource Limit 
Individuals$1,715$9,430
Couples$2,320$14,130
Source: Medicare Website 

The QDWI Program 

The monthly income and resource limits for the QDWI program are highlighted below:

Monthly Income Limit Resource Limit 
Individuals$5,105$4,000
Couples$6,899$6,000
Source: Medicare Website

How To Apply for the Medicare Saving Program 

Though the Medicare Savings Programs are organized at the federal level, they are co-run and sponsored independently by states’ Medicaid agencies. The first step is to contact your state’s Medicaid agency to determine your eligibility. Afterward, follow the steps below: 

  1. Create “My Social Security” account online
  2. Sign in to your account and complete the application 
  3. Or visit the Social Security office near you if you prefer to apply physically. 

If you are a US citizen residing outside the country, contact the nearest U.S. Social Security office, U.S. Embassy or consulate to find out how to apply for MSP.

Other necessary information and documents to have handy when applying include: 

How Long Does the MSP Application Take?

The application process takes between 10 to 30 minutes. However, you will typically get feedback on your application through an official Notice of Action within 45 days. The notice will inform you of which MSP program type you’ll receive. Remember that you need to renew your MSP annually if approved. 

If your application is denied, cross-check your supporting documents and reapply or request a fair hearing to appeal the decision. 

Extra Medical Help Is Available Through the MSP Program

The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) is a great way to get financial support when you’re unable to meet your Medicare premium obligations. Provided you’re 65 years or older and/or living with a disability, you can get MSP support. 

If you have more questions on how MSP works or need assistance, call the Social Security toll-free line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to book an appointment.

FAQs

1. Can you apply for more than one Medicare Savings Program?

No, you can only qualify for one program at a time. However, you may be enrolled for Extra Help if you qualify for MSP. 

2. Is the Medicare Savings Program the Same as Medicaid? 

MSP and Medicaid operate differently despite their similarities. MSPs are under state Medicaid programs to offer financial assistance to low-income old people who can’t afford their Medicare payments. 

Conversely, Medicaid caters to a broader spectrum of people, including low-income households, children, people with disabilities, and pregnant women.

Share this post

Picture of Darius T.

Darius T.

I’m a writer with+10 years of experience, dedicated to help people understand the social assistance available and their rights. My goal is to break down barriers to ensure equal access to vital resources and social programs across the U.S. When I’m not writing, I colllaborate with neighborhood associations to address community concerns.

You might also like...

LET US KNOW YOUR SUGGESTIONS!

Use our Contact Form to tell us what other topics you would be interested in learning about…