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My Medicare Matters—2021 Income Guidelines for Savings Programs

You may be eligible to save on your Medicare costs! 

The Extra Help Program is a Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) which helps some Medicare beneficiaries get reduced monthly prescription premiums, co-pays and/or annual deductibles related to their Medicare Prescription Drugs. The 2021 eligibility limits are below.

Income limit is $1,630 or less for an individual or $2198 or less for a married couple per month. This is gross income, which is all incoming money–including pensions, annuities, social security, etc. before any premiums, taxes or other expenses are taken out. LIS Asset or Resource limit with included irrevocable burial set-asides is $19,560/individual or $26,370/married couple. Assets include: CD’s, IRA, Investments, savings, bank accounts. Apply for Extra Help at the Social Security website, ssa.gov. 

The Medicare Saving Program is a State Medicaid administered buy-in program which pays Medicare Part B (and sometimes part A) premiums. MSP may also cover co-pays and/or deductibles for income and asset eligible Medicare beneficiaries. Persons with lower income and assets may qualify for full Medicaid; higher incomes might only receive premium payment assistance. The 2021 eligibility limits are below.

Income limit is $1,469/individual or $1980/married couple per month. This is also GROSS income. Asset or Resource limit is $7,970 for an individual, or $11,960 for a married couple. A specific type of burial allowance may increase asset limit. Assets include: CD’s, IRA, Investments, savings, bank accounts. In some instances, these limits may be higher.  

CALL 1-800-803-7174 to reach your nearest MMAP office to learn more. MMAP is administered by Carewell Services Southwest in Calhoun and Barry County, and funded in part by Calhoun County Senior Millage. 

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