The Money Savers Nobody Applies For — Medicare Savings Programs & Extra Help
What it is
Two under-used programs that put real money back each month. Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) — the state pays your Medicare Part B premium (over $2,000/year for most people), and the QMB level also wipes out Medicare deductibles and copays. Four levels (QMB, SLMB, QI, QDWI) by income. Extra Help — Social Security lowers your Part D prescription costs; in 2026, qualifying means paying no more than $12.65 per covered drug.
Who can get it
Limits change yearly; Medicare's 2026 federal figures: QMB $1,350/month income and $9,950 resources (single; couples higher) · SLMB $1,616 · QI $1,816. Medicare's own advice: apply even if you're not sure — some state rules don't count everything. Qualifying for an MSP automatically brings Extra Help with it.
What it costs
Nothing. These programs only give.
The honest part
QI is first-come, first-served, and you re-apply for it every year.
How to start
MSPs: apply through the state Medi-Cal office — in LA County that's DPSS (I&A (800) 510-2020 can route you).
Extra Help: apply free at ssa.gov (Part D Extra Help) or call Social Security (800) 772-1213 for an appointment. Have bank statements and any pension/IRA statements handy.
Not sure which you'd get? One free call: HICAP (800) 434-0222.
Official sources
We describe programs; we don't make medical, legal, or insurance decisions for you. For Medicare choices, HICAP counselors advise you free: (800) 434-0222. For anything medical, talk with the doctor.