Get Help Paying for Medicare

If you have limited income and resources, you may qualify for programs that help cover Medicare costs such as premiums, deductibles and prescription drug expenses. 

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) 

Medicare Savings Programs can help with out-of-pocket Medicare Part A and Part B costs. These programs are available to people with limited income and resources and can help pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and copayments. 

There are four types of Medicare Savings Programs: 

• Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program 
  Pays for Medicare Part A premiums, Part B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and copayments for services and items covered by Original Medicare. 
• Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program 
  Helps pay Part B premiums. 
• Qualified Individual (QI) Program 
  Also helps pay Part B premiums. You must apply each year and funding is limited.
• Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program
  Helps pay Part A premiums for individuals with disabilities who lost premium-free Part A due to returning to work.

Learn more about Medicare Savings Programs

Help paying for your prescription drug plan 

If you need help paying for your prescription drug coverage, these programs may assist with out-of-pocket costs:

Extra Help through Social Security

Also called the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), this program helps cover prescription drug plan premiums, deductibles, and copayments. It is available to people with limited income and resources and can significantly reduce the cost of Medicare Part D drug coverage.

Learn more about the Extra Help program.

Programs from drug companies to help with prescriptions 

Some drug manufacturers offer assistance for people enrolled in a Medicare Part D drug plan. You can search online for programs based on the medications you take.

Arizona AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) Assist

This state program helps Arizona residents with HIV or AIDS pay for prescription drug coverage. You must be enrolled in Medicare Part D and meet income guidelines.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

SSI is a monthly benefit from the Social Security Administration for people who are disabled, blind, or age 65 and older with limited income and resources. You may qualify for Supplemental Security Income even if you already receive Social Security disability or retirement benefits.

Learn more about Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Who qualifies for extra help paying Medicare costs?

You may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program or Extra Help if you:

• Have limited income and resources
• Are enrolled in Original Medicare
• Need assistance with Medicare drug coverage
• Have trouble paying premiums, deductibles or prescription drug costs

For personalized assistance, visit the Social Security website or contact your local Medicaid office.