Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-run programs that help pay your Medicare costs. QMB pays your Part A & B premiums plus deductibles and coinsurance; SLMB and QI pay your Part B premium ($202.90/mo in 2026). Qualifying also unlocks Extra Help for drugs automatically.
If Medicare's monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs strain your budget, a Medicare Savings Program (MSP) may cover them for you. These are state-run programs — in Utah, through Medicaid / the Department of Workforce Services — and qualifying also unlocks Extra Help for prescriptions automatically.
The Three Programs
| Program | What it pays | Monthly income (single) | Monthly income (married) |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB Qualified Medicare Beneficiary | Part A & B premiums, plus deductibles, coinsurance, and copays | $1,350 | $1,824 |
| SLMB Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary | Part B premium | $1,616 | $2,184 |
| QI Qualifying Individual | Part B premium (limited funds — apply early each year) | $1,816 | $2,455 |
Resource (asset) limits for 2026: about $9,950 for a single person and $14,910 for a married couple. Your home and one car generally don't count.
Why It's Worth Applying
QMB is especially valuable — it can eliminate your Part B premium ($202.90/month in 2026) and cover deductibles and coinsurance, effectively acting like a supplement at no cost to you. Even SLMB or QI, which "only" pay the Part B premium, put real money back in your pocket every month.
Because income limits are higher than most people assume — and because qualifying automatically triggers Extra Help for drugs — it's almost always worth checking. Start with the dual-eligible overview, or call us and we'll check every program you might qualify for at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between QMB, SLMB, and QI?
What are the 2026 income limits in Utah?
Does an MSP also help with drug costs?
Sources
- Medicare Savings Programs — Medicare.gov
- Utah Medicaid / Department of Workforce Services — State of Utah
Talk to a local, licensed agent
Rocco DeLuca can walk you through your options — free, no pressure.