If you are on Medicare and have limited income, New York State offers Medicare Savings Programs that can pay your Medicare premiums and reduce your out-of-pocket costs — often saving hundreds of dollars per month. These programs are dramatically underenrolled: a large number of eligible New Yorkers don’t know they exist. This guide explains the four programs, who qualifies, and how to apply.
What Are Medicare Savings Programs?
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state Medicaid programs that help low-income Medicare beneficiaries pay for Medicare costs. In New York, there are four levels, each covering more costs as income decreases. All four programs are administered by New York State and applied for through NYC HRA.
The Four Medicare Savings Programs
1. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)
QMB is the most comprehensive MSP. If you qualify, Medicaid pays:
- Your Medicare Part A premium (if you have one)
- Your Medicare Part B premium ($174.70/month in 2024 — verify current amount)
- Your Medicare deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments
QMB beneficiaries should not be billed by Medicare providers for covered services. If a provider bills you, you can report it to 1-800-MEDICARE.
2. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
SLMB pays your Medicare Part B premium only. Income limits are slightly higher than QMB.
3. Qualifying Individual (QI)
QI also pays the Medicare Part B premium. Income limits are slightly higher than SLMB. QI is funded through a federal block grant and enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis — apply early in the year.
4. Qualified Disabled and Working Individual (QDWI)
QDWI pays the Medicare Part A premium for people who lost Medicare Part A due to returning to work. More limited — contact HRA for specific eligibility details.
Income Limits for Medicare Savings Programs in NYC
Income limits are based on the Federal Poverty Level and adjust annually. As a general reference for 2024–2025 (verify current figures at nyc.gov/hra or by calling HRA):
- QMB: Monthly income at or below approximately $1,255 (individual) or $1,704 (couple)
- SLMB: Monthly income slightly above QMB limits up to approximately $1,504 (individual) or $2,023 (couple)
- QI: Monthly income up to approximately $1,688 (individual) or $2,267 (couple)
New York has no asset test for Medicare Savings Programs — your savings accounts, home equity, and other assets do not count against eligibility. This is more generous than many other states.
Extra Help: The Federal Low-Income Subsidy for Part D
If you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, you automatically qualify for Extra Help (also called the Low-Income Subsidy or LIS) — a federal program that reduces Medicare Part D prescription drug costs. Extra Help can reduce your monthly Part D premium to near zero and significantly cut copays for medications.
If you qualify for QMB, SLMB, or QI, the Social Security Administration automatically enrolls you in Extra Help — you do not need to apply separately.
How to Apply for Medicare Savings Programs in NYC
Apply Through HRA
Apply for all Medicare Savings Programs through NYC HRA:
- Online: a069-access.nyc.gov (ACCESS HRA)
- Phone: HRA Infoline at (718) 557-1399
- In person: Any HRA Benefits Access Center — find locations at nyc.gov/hra or by calling 311
Get Free Help Applying
- HIICAP (Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Program): Free, unbiased Medicare counseling from trained volunteers — call (212) 341-3500 or find a counselor at nyc.gov/aging
- NYC Aging: (212) 244-6469 — benefits counselors at senior centers can help you apply
- Center for Medicare Advocacy: medicareadvocacy.org — national nonprofit, free assistance
- 1-800-MEDICARE: 1-800-633-4227 — can explain MSPs and refer you to state programs
Documents You Will Need
- Medicare card showing your Medicare number and coverage dates
- Proof of identity and NYC residency
- Proof of income: Social Security award letter, pension statement, any other income sources
- Social Security number
Frequently Asked Questions
I have Medicare but don’t have Medicaid. Can I still get a Medicare Savings Program?
Yes. Medicare Savings Programs are separate from regular Medicaid. You can qualify for an MSP even if you would not qualify for full Medicaid — the income limits are different. Apply regardless of whether you think you qualify for Medicaid.
Does my savings account count against MSP eligibility in New York?
No. New York has no asset test for Medicare Savings Programs. Your savings, checking accounts, home equity, and other assets do not affect your eligibility. Only your monthly income is counted.
I already have Medicaid. Am I automatically enrolled in an MSP?
Not always automatically. If you have both Medicare and full Medicaid (you are “dual eligible”), you likely already receive MSP benefits. But if you have Medicare and only partial Medicaid, or no Medicaid, you may need to apply specifically for an MSP. Contact HRA at (718) 557-1399 to confirm your current enrollment status.
How much does QMB save me per month?
At minimum, QMB eliminates your Part B premium — which is over $170/month for most Medicare beneficiaries. If you also have a Part A premium, that is eliminated too. Plus, QMB eliminates all Medicare deductibles and copayments for covered services, which can save significantly depending on your health care usage.
