The QMB Program: Free Medicare Coverage If You Qualify
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program is a Medicaid program that pays for your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and all cost-sharing if your income and assets are below certain limits. In 2026, you may qualify if your monthly income is at or below $1,350 (individual) or $1,824 (couple). Enrollment happens through your state Medicaid office, and it's free to apply.
What Does QMB Cover?
QMB is one of the Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) — federal programs administered by states to help lower-income beneficiaries afford their coverage.
QMB pays:
- Your Medicare Part A premium (if applicable — most people get Part A free)
- Your Medicare Part B premium ($202.90/month in 2026 for most people)
- Part A and Part B deductibles
- Part A and Part B coinsurance and copays
Critical rule: Providers who accept Medicare are prohibited by federal law from billing QMB enrollees for Medicare cost-sharing. If a provider bills you for a copay or deductible and you have QMB, you can refuse to pay and report it to 1-800-MEDICARE.
Income and Asset Limits (2026)
Your situation | 2026 Monthly Income Limit | 2026 Asset Limit |
|---|---|---|
Individual | $1,350 | $9,950 |
Married couple | $1,824 | $14,910 |
Assets counted: checking/savings, stocks, bonds. NOT counted: your home, one car, personal belongings, burial funds. Some states have higher limits. Limits updated annually.
Other Medicare Savings Programs
If you don't qualify for full QMB, you may qualify for:
- SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary): Pays Part B premium only. 2026 limits: $1,616/mo individual, $2,184/mo couple.
- QI (Qualifying Individual): Pays Part B premium only (limited slots, funded separately). 2026 limits: $1,816/mo individual, $2,455/mo couple.
- QDWI (Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals): Pays Part A premium for disabled people who have returned to work. Narrow eligibility.
Does QMB Affect Extra Help or Part D?
Yes — automatically and favorably. QMB enrollment automatically qualifies you for Extra Help (the Low Income Subsidy for Part D), which significantly reduces drug costs. No separate application needed.
How to Apply
Apply through your state Medicaid office — not through Medicare directly. Options:
- Call your state Medicaid office
- Apply online through your state's Medicaid portal
- Visit a local Social Security office
Medicare (1-800-MEDICARE) can give you your state office's contact information. Processing typically takes 45–90 days. If approved, coverage is usually retroactive to the month you applied.