How it Works
SHIIP-SMP can help you apply for Medicare Savings Programs. If you quality these programs may pay your Part A and Part B deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Use our Medicare Savings Programs handout to see if you might qualify for assistance.
Defining Terms
Listed below are definitions and clarification of terms and eligibility you may find when researching Medicare Savings Programs.
Resources include items such as bank accounts, stocks, bonds, CDs, and Individual Retirement Accounts (or similar investments). Resources NOT included are your primary home, primary vehicle, care and life insurance.
Annual Gross Income includes Social Security, railroad retirement Veterans' benefits, pensions, annuities, or wages from employment.
Available Help & Eligibility
You must be enrolled in or eligible for Medicare Part A and meet the income and resource guidelines. Outlined below are the requirements for each type. If you qualify as a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) or Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB), you automatically qualify to get Extra Help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage.
Effective January 1, 2010, any benefits paid by Medicare Savings Programs will not have to be paid back to the state when you die.
Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)
Medicare Savings Programs pay:
- Medicare Part A and Part B premiums
- Medicare Part A and Part B deductibles
- Medicare Part A and Part B coinsurance
If your monthly income is below:
- $1,235 for individuals
- $1,664 for couples
If your resources are below:
- $9,090 for individuals
- $13,630 for couples
Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
Medicare Savings Programs pay:
- Medicare Part B premium
If your monthly income is below:
- $1,161 for individuals
- $2,293 for couples
If your resources are below:
- $9,090 for individuals
- $13,630 for couples
How to apply
Call SHIIP–SMP at 1-800-351-4664 (TTY: 1-800-735-2942) or email shiip@iid.iowa.gov to have a counselor help you with the application process.