Health care coverage
People who need help with Medicare costs
Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) help people who have low income pay the cost of their Medicare coverage.
Depending on which program you qualify for, it may pay your:
- Part B premium
- Part A premium, if any
- Medicare copays and deductibles
There are four different programs with specific rules for qualifying. Details about each program are in the Medicare Savings Programs brochures below.
Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (PDF): Helps pay all Medicare costs
https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/public/DHS-2087E-ENGService Limited Medicare Beneficiaries (PDF): Pays Part B premium only
https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/public/DHS-2087G-ENGQualified Working Disabled Individuals (PDF): Pays Part A premium only
https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/public/DHS-2087F-ENGQualified Individuals (PDF): Pays Part B premium only
https://edocs.dhs.state.mn.us/lfserver/public/DHS-2087I-ENGHow much does it cost?
There is no cost for Medicare Savings Programs. However, there may be costs, such as copays, related to Medicare.
When will it start?
Medicare Savings Programs coverage usually starts the month we get your application. Some people may get Part B premiums paid going back three months from the date we get your application.
When your coverage starts, Social Security will stop taking Medicare premiums out of your monthly Social Security check.
Can I get Medical Assistance at the same time?
Yes, the county or tribal office will review your application to see if you qualify for both Medical Assistance and Medicare Savings Programs.
What is the income limit?
The income limit and whose income counts depend on who lives with you.
Income and asset limitsCan I qualify if I have a house or car?
Yes, usually the home you live in and a car do not count toward the asset limit.
Income and asset limitsCan I qualify if I have savings, a retirement account or other assets?
Yes, however, your assets must be within the asset limit.
Income and asset limitsCan I qualify if I have other health insurance?
You may still qualify. You must tell us if you have other health insurance in addition to Medicare.
How other insurance can affect eligibilityCan I get help paying for health care services that Medicare does not cover?
You may be able to get help through Medical Assistance. Learn about Medical Assistance for:
People aged 65 or older Adults who have a disability or are Blind Children under 21 who have a disability or are BlindWhere can I get information about Medicare Part D?
- Visit the Medicare website or call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227)
- Apply for extra help with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs by visiting the Social Security website or calling your local Social Security office
- Get information about prescription drug options, including Medicare Part D, by calling Minnesota Aging Pathways, Disability Hub MN or Minnesota Aging and Disability Resources