Medicare Savings Programs are state-administered benefits that help people with limited income pay Medicare costs. New York's income limits are among the most generous in the country and were expanded again in recent years.
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program is the broadest: it pays the Part B premium and protects enrollees from most deductibles, coinsurance and copayments.
SLMB and QI both pay the Part B premium without the cost-sharing protection. QI is funded on a first-come basis each calendar year, which makes early filing genuinely worthwhile.
Enrollment in any Medicare Savings Program automatically qualifies you for Extra Help, which dramatically reduces prescription drug costs under Part D.
Renewal is annual. Mark the date, respond to renewal mail immediately, and report income or address changes as they happen rather than at renewal time.
Renewal is annual. Mark the date, respond to renewal mail immediately, and report income or address changes as they happen rather than at renewal time.