Medicare Savings and Extra Help Checker

What this tool checks

This tool checks starting points for Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help. Medicare Savings Programs can help pay Part A and Part B costs through your state Medicaid office. Extra Help can lower Medicare Part D prescription drug costs. It does not approve you, and it cannot see how your state counts income or resources.

For 2026, Medicare lists QMB, SLMB, and QI income and resource limits. Medicare also says some states may use higher limits or different counting rules. That means seniors who are close should still ask the state Medicaid office or a SHIP counselor.

Best next steps

• Ask about QMB: This can help with the Part B premium and Medicare cost-sharing.
• Ask about SLMB or QI: These can help pay the Part B premium.
• Apply for Extra Help: Use Social Security or ask SHIP for help.
• Do not self-deny: State rules may be more generous than the basic federal chart.

Documents to gather

Bring your Medicare card, Social Security award letter, pension or income proof, bank/resource information if requested, prescription drug plan card, and current medical or drug bills. If you have Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, or SNAP, tell the counselor because that may affect the next step.

Reality checks

Medicare plan choices, state Medicaid rules, and resource counting can be confusing. Use this result as a call plan, not a final answer. If you get a denial, ask for the reason and whether a different Medicare Savings Program could still apply.