Medicare Savings Programs in Minnesota: 2026 Income Limits
| Program | Individual Limit | Couple Limit | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB | $1,255/month | $1,704/month | Pays all Medicare premiums, deductibles, copays |
| SLMB | $1,478/month | $1,992/month | Pays Part B premium ($185/month) |
| QI | $1,660/month | $2,239/month | Pays Part B premium (limited slots) |
| QDWI | $4,945/month | $6,659/month | Pays Part A premium for working disabled |
What Are Medicare Savings Programs?
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-administered programs funded jointly by the state and federal government that help low-income Medicare beneficiaries pay their Medicare costs. In Minnesota, there are four MSPs available, each with different income limits and benefits. Qualifying for an MSP also automatically qualifies you for the Extra Help program (Low Income Subsidy) for Part D prescription drug costs.
QMB Program in Minnesota
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program is the most comprehensive MSP. In Minnesota, individuals with monthly income at or below $1,255 (couples: $1,704) may qualify. QMB pays your Part A premium (if applicable), Part B premium ($185/month in 2026), Part A deductible ($1,676 per benefit period), Part B deductible ($240/year), and all Medicare copays and coinsurance. Providers are prohibited from billing QMB beneficiaries for Medicare cost-sharing.
SLMB Program in Minnesota
The Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) program pays your Medicare Part B premium ($185/month in 2026). In Minnesota, individuals with monthly income at or below $1,478 (couples: $1,992) may qualify. SLMB saves you $2,220/year on Part B premiums alone.
QI Program in Minnesota
The Qualifying Individual (QI) program also pays the Part B premium but has limited funding — slots are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis each year. In Minnesota, individuals with monthly income at or below $1,660 (couples: $2,239) may apply. Apply early in the year to secure a slot.
How to Apply for Medicare Savings Programs in Minnesota
To apply for a Medicare Savings Program in Minnesota, contact your state Medicaid office or local Social Security office. You will need to provide proof of income (Social Security award letter, tax return, pay stubs), proof of assets (bank statements), Medicare card, and proof of residency in Minnesota. Applications are processed by Minnesota’s Medicaid agency. If approved, benefits are retroactive to the month of application.
Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy) and MSPs in Minnesota
Qualifying for any Medicare Savings Program in Minnesota automatically qualifies you for Extra Help, which reduces Part D prescription drug costs to nominal copays ($4.90 for generics, $12.15 for brand-name drugs in 2026) and eliminates the Part D late enrollment penalty. This can save hundreds or thousands of dollars per year for beneficiaries with multiple prescriptions.