Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-administered programs that help low-income Medicare beneficiaries in New Mexico pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, and cost-sharing. If you have limited income, you may qualify for help with your healthcare costs.
Types of Medicare Savings Programs
| Program | What It Pays | Income Limit (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) | Part A premium, Part B premium, deductibles, coinsurance, copays | ~100% FPL |
| SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) | Part B premium | ~120% FPL |
| QI (Qualifying Individual) | Part B premium | ~135% FPL |
| QDWI (Qualified Disabled & Working Individual) | Part A premium | ~200% FPL |
FPL = Federal Poverty Level. Income limits are updated annually and may vary slightly. Resource limits also apply for some programs. Contact NM Health Care Authority for current thresholds.
QMB: The Most Comprehensive Savings
The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program provides the broadest assistance, covering nearly all of your Medicare cost-sharing. If you qualify for QMB, Medicare providers cannot bill you for deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments—it is against federal law. QMB also automatically qualifies you for Extra Help with Part D drug costs.
Did you know? QMB enrollment also qualifies you for the Part D Low-Income Subsidy (Extra Help), which covers most of your prescription drug costs. You do not need to apply separately for Extra Help if you have QMB.
How to Apply in New Mexico
- Online: YES New Mexico (yes.state.nm.us)
- Phone: 1-800-283-4465
- In Person: Visit your local Income Support Division (ISD) office
- Help Applying: Apply through the NM Health Care Authority at 1-800-283-4465, or ask a licensed insurance agent to help
Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) for Part D
Extra Help is a federal program that helps pay Part D prescription drug premiums, deductibles, and copayments. In New Mexico, you can apply through:
- Social Security: 1-800-772-1213 or online at ssa.gov/medicare/prescriptionhelp
- Your local Medicaid office (applying for Medicaid also screens you for Extra Help)
Not Sure If You Qualify?
The New Mexico Health Care Authority decides who qualifies for a Medicare Savings Program, and Social Security decides who qualifies for Extra Help. A licensed insurance agent can explain the rules and help you start an application.