Guides ยท Last reviewed October 28, 2026
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI): 2026 limits and how to apply
If you have Medicare and a low income, your state may pay some or all of your Medicare costs. With the QMB program, Medicare providers aren't allowed to bill you for services and items Medicare covers.
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The four programs
- QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary): helps pay Part A premiums (if you don't have premium-free Part A) and Part B premiums, plus deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments for Medicare-covered services.
- SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary): helps pay Part B premiums only. You need both Part A and Part B.
- QI (Qualifying Individual): helps pay Part B premiums only. You need both Part A and Part B and must reapply every year. It's only for people who don't qualify for other Medicaid coverage or benefits.
- QDWI (Qualified Disabled & Working Individual): helps pay Part A premiums only. It's for people with a disability who are working and lost premium-free Part A and Social Security disability benefits after returning to work.
2026 federal limits (monthly income, total resources)
| Program | Individual income | Couple income | Individual resources | Couple resources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QMB | $1,350 | $1,824 | $9,950 | $14,910 |
| SLMB | $1,616 | $2,184 | $9,950 | $14,910 |
| QI | $1,816 | $2,455 | $9,950 | $14,910 |
| QDWI | $5,405 | $7,299 | $4,000 | $6,000 |
Income limits are slightly higher in Alaska and Hawaii. Medicare.gov also says some states don't count certain income or resources, so you may qualify even if you are above these numbers. Apply and let your state decide.
QMB and your medical bills
Medicare.gov says that if you're in QMB, Medicare providers aren't allowed to bill you for services and items Medicare covers. That includes deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. You may still get a bill for a small Medicaid copayment, if one applies.
If a provider bills you for a Medicare-covered service and you have QMB, show your proof of QMB enrollment and ask the provider to bill your state Medicaid program instead. Keep a copy of your Medicare and Medicaid cards and the state's approval letter.
How to apply
- Apply through your state, not Medicare. Medicare.gov points you to your state Medicaid agency through Medicaid.gov.
- Apply even if you think you earn too much. Your state decides which program, if any, fits you.
- Gather basics: your Medicare card, proof of income, and information on bank accounts and other resources.
If a bill is for something else
QMB only covers Medicare cost sharing. For bills Medicare didn't cover, see how to appeal a Medicare denial and hospital financial assistance.
Common questions
Do I apply for Medicare Savings Programs through Medicare?
No. You apply through your state. Medicare.gov directs you to your state Medicaid agency.
Can a doctor bill me for the Medicare deductible if I have QMB?
Medicare.gov says Medicare providers aren't allowed to bill you for services and items Medicare covers if you have QMB. You may still get a bill for a small Medicaid copayment, if one applies.
What if my income is above the limit?
Apply anyway. Medicare.gov says some states don't count certain income or resources, so you may qualify above the federal numbers.
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Sources
Limits shown are the 2026 figures on Medicare.gov as of October 28, 2026. Billmira is a self-help information tool, not a law firm, and this isn't legal, tax, or medical advice. Rules change and plans differ; check the official sources above and your own documents.