Three programs may help pay for your Medicare Part "B" Premiums:
Specified Low Income Medicare Beneficiaries (SLMB)
Eligibility
A SLMB is an individual who:
- Is entitled to Medicare Part A hospital insurance;
- has countable income greater than 100% and less than 120% of the Federal Poverty Level ($1,083 for an individual and $1,457 for a couple); and
- has countable resources below the limit ($4,000 for an individual and $6,000 for a couple).
Supplemental Security Income financial policy is used to determine eligibility with the following exceptions:
- In-kind support and maintenance is not counted as income; and
- the value of a home, household goods, and personal effects, one motor vehicle, life estate interest in property and undivided interest in heirs' property are not counted as resources.
Benefits
For a SLMB, the Medicaid Program is required to pay the Medicare Part B premium only. These individuals are NOT entitled to any other Medicaid benefits; therefore, they do not receive a Medicaid card.
Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB)
Eligibility
To be eligible as a QMB, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Be entitled to Part A of Medicare,
- Have countable income at or below 100% of Federal Poverty Level, and
- Have countable resources below $4,000.
Benefits
QMB coverage offers payment of Medicare premiums. All applicants are screened for full benefits under the ABD category.
Qualifying Individuals
Eligibility
A Qualifying Individual is someone who (QI):
- Is currently enrolled in Medicare Part A Hospital Insurance; and
- Has countable income above 120% and below 135% of poverty ($1,219 for and an individual and $1,640 for a couple); and
- Has countable resources below the limit ($4,000 for an individual and $6,000 for a couple); and
- Is not otherwise eligible for full Medicaid benefits.
Supplemental Security Income financial policy is used to determine eligibility with the following exceptions:
- In-kind support and maintenance is not counted as income; and
- The value of a home, household goods, and personal effects, one motor vehicle, life estate interest in property and undivided interest in heirs' property are not counted as resources.
Benefits
For QI, the Medicaid Program is required to pay the Medicare Part B premium only. These individuals are not entitled to any other Medicaid benefits; therefore, they do not receive a Medicaid card.
Applications may be obtained from the Department of Health and Human Services or from out-stationed locations such as the
County Health Departments
, federally qualified rural health centers, most hospitals and the county Department of Social Services. Applications for Medicaid may be filed in person or by mail.
|
