Qualified Medicare Benefits (QMB)

This is a benefit that can save seniors more than $2460 per year if they qualify. QMB covers the cost of Medicare Part B, currently $185 a month at the lowest premium and any Part A and B deductibles and copays. There are options to lower monthly income to qualify for QMB if the applicant is also below the required asset limit.

To qualify, an individual applicant must have gross income less than $1287 per month, and countable assets of less than $9,660.

Married couples with income less than $1,783 per month, and assets of less than $14,470 can also qualify.

QMB covers not only the Part B Premiums, but Part A and B deductibles, coinsurance or copayments and if eligible, there is a prohibition on balance billing.

Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)

This benefit covers only the part B premiums, still as significant savings if you meet the following income and asset limits:

Individual income limit $1,585 with assets of less than $9,660

Married Couple income limit $2,135 per month, with assets of less than $14,470

Qualifying for SLMB also gets you Extra Help with prescription drugs and pay no more than $12.15

for each drug your plan covers.

Qualifying Individual Program (Q1) 

Same qualification as for SLMB, and covers Part B premiums and provides extra help on prescription drugs. However, you must qualify each year on a first come first serve basis. Only available for those who do not qualify for other programs.

Qualified Disabled & Working Individual Program (QDWI)

Must be disabled, working and lost Social Security disability and free part A because you returned to work.

Individual income limit of $5,302 per month and asset limit of $4,000

Married Couple income limit of $7,135 per month and asset limit of $6,000

You can apply for benefits through The Florida Department of Children and Families.

Contact a Florida eldercare lawyer to schedule an appointment

Teresa K. Bowman, P.A. provides support for Medicaid issues through eldercare services for clients in Sarasota and Osprey. Please call 941-735-5200 or contact my Sarasota office online to schedule an appointment.