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How Do You Apply for a Medicare Savings Program?

Find out how to apply for a Medicare Savings Program through your state, what costs these programs can cover, and how they differ from Extra Help.

Direct answer

To apply for a Medicare Savings Program, contact your state Medicaid or Medicare-cost-help office because states run these programs and decide which category you qualify for. Depending on the category, a Medicare Savings Program may help pay Part A or Part B premiums and sometimes other Medicare cost-sharing. It is separate from Extra Help, though some approvals can also connect you to drug-cost help.

Medicare cost need + state application + income/resource review = MSP eligibility decision

Medicare Savings Program categories

QMB

Part A and/or Part B premiums and Medicare cost-sharing

Strongest cost-sharing protection

SLMB

Part B premiums

State reviews income and resources

QI

Part B premiums

May require annual reapplication and limited state funds

QDWI

Part A premiums for certain disabled working people

Narrower eligibility

Extra Help connection

Part D drug costs

Not the same program, but some MSP approvals trigger it

Apply through your state, not a generic federal form

Medicare.gov describes the program categories, but the application goes through your state. Use the state route for current local forms, documentation rules, and income/resource review.

Apply for an MSP

  1. 1Confirm you have or are applying for the Medicare parts tied to the help you need.
  2. 2Find your state Medicaid or Medicare Savings Program application route.
  3. 3Gather income, resource, Medicare, and household information.
  4. 4Apply through your state and respond to document requests.
  5. 5Review whether approval also changes your Part D Extra Help status.

FAQ

Do I apply for a Medicare Savings Program through Medicare or my state?

Apply through your state. Medicare.gov says states run Medicare Savings Programs and decide which category you qualify for.

What costs can a Medicare Savings Program help pay?

Depending on the category, a Medicare Savings Program may help pay Part A or Part B premiums and sometimes other Medicare cost-sharing.

Is a Medicare Savings Program the same as Extra Help?

No. Medicare Savings Programs help with Medicare costs through your state, while Extra Help focuses on Part D drug costs. Some MSP approvals can also connect you to Extra Help.

Sources & method

We reviewed these references while writing this answer. Figures are estimates — confirm safety-critical work with a professional. Last updated June 7, 2026.