Episode 61 Block 5 Published
Medicare Savings Programs: Free Part B Through QMB, SLMB, and QI
Watch on YouTube Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI, QDWI) eliminate Part B premiums and cost-sharing for low-income beneficiaries — yet an estimated nine million eligible people are not enrolled. This video explains all four tiers, the 2026 income and asset limits, what QMB no-billing protection means, and exactly where to apply. Check the playlist for the full Social Security series covering Medicare, taxes, and benefits. Next video: Extra Help for Part D.
▶ Watch next: Medicare Extra Help for Part D: Free Drug Coverage Most Retirees Miss - Social Security [62] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9N6naWov0a4
📺 Full playlist: Social Security (US - 2026) https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlIAFxS296491LWfYsLp6anRyo6_DO_pI
Chapters
Medicare Savings Programs pay Part B premiums, sometimes Part A, and often cost-sharing for low-income beneficiaries. There are four tiers (QMB, SLMB, QI, QDWI) with different income and asset limits. Millions who qualify don't enroll — because states administer them and few people are told they exist.
Key Topics
- QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary): pays Part A, B premiums + cost-sharing
- SLMB (Specified Low-Income): pays Part B premium only
- QI (Qualifying Individual): pays Part B premium, narrower eligibility
- QDWI (Qualified Disabled Working Individual): working-disabled SSDI conversions
- Income and asset limits for each tier (2026 numbers)
- State variation in administration (some more generous than federal floor)
- Applying through your state Medicaid office, not SSA