Medicare Savings Programs in California (QMB, SLMB, QI)

What each program pays

QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary): pays the Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and copayments. You must be entitled to Medicare Part A.

SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary): pays the Part B premium. You must have Medicare Part A.

QI (Qualifying Individual): pays the Part B premium. You must have Medicare Part A and cannot also receive Medi-Cal.

QDWI (Qualified Disabled and Working Individual): pays the Part A premium for people who lost Part A because they returned to work, and who cannot also receive Medi-Cal.

2026 income limits

According to DHCS, the 2026 gross monthly income limits (total income before taxes and before deductions) for one person and for a married couple are: QMB $1,330 and $1,804; SLMB $1,596 and $2,165; QI $1,796 and $2,436; QDWI $2,660 and $3,608.

DHCS notes that these limits already include amounts that are not counted. If your income is a little higher, you should still apply, because other deductions may apply.

The asset limit

Since January 1, 2026, the asset limit for Medicare Savings Programs is $130,000 for one person, plus $65,000 for each additional person in the household, up to 10 people. According to DHCS, assets are things you own, such as bank accounts, cash, second homes, and vehicles. Under the DHCS asset guidance, the home you live in and your main vehicle are usually not counted; if you are not sure, ask the county.

DHCS has announced that Medi-Cal asset limits will drop sharply on July 1, 2027. Ask your county social services office whether that change affects your program.

Related benefits

According to Medicare.gov, people with QMB, SLMB, or QI get Extra Help automatically, which lowers Part D drug costs. People in a Medicare Savings Program are also usually exempt from the Part B late enrollment penalty.

Since January 1, 2025, California automatically enrolls people who have full Medi-Cal, have Part B, and qualify for QMB in the Part A Buy-In program, and the state pays their Part A premium.

My income is a little above the limit. Should I still apply?

Yes. DHCS says the limits already include some amounts that are not counted, and other deductions may apply when your application is reviewed.

Where do I apply?

The same way as Medi-Cal: on BenefitsCal, by mail, by calling your county social services office, or in person. You can call the Medi-Cal Helpline at (800) 541-5555 to find your county office. To apply only for a Medicare Savings Program, you can use form MC 14A.

Does MSP lower my drug costs?

According to Medicare.gov, people with QMB, SLMB, or QI get Extra Help automatically, which lowers Part D drug costs. QDWI is not part of this group.

I already have Medi-Cal. Do I need to apply for MSP separately?

Since 2025, California automatically enrolls people who have full Medi-Cal, have Part B, and qualify for QMB in the program that pays the Part A premium. If you are not sure whether you have MSP, ask your county social services office.

Is QualitySpace a Medi-Cal office?

No. QualitySpace Insurance Agency is a private insurance agency in Westminster. It is not a government office and is not connected with Medi-Cal, CalOptima Health, or the federal Medicare program. Buying insurance is not a requirement to apply for a Medicare Savings Program.