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What are Medicare Savings Programs?
As part of the medical assistance program, states have programs that may
save money for anyone who has Medicare Part A and has limited income and
resources. If you qualify, you may not have to pay Medicare premiums, and
in some cases deductibles, and coinsurance. But, many of the people who
can get this money never even apply. Are you one of them? Even if you only
think you qualify, apply!
How do I know if I qualify?
In order to qualify for these programs, you must meet the following three
requirements:
1.You must have Medicare Part A, or hospital insurance. If you’re not sure
if you this, look on your red, white, and blue Medicare insurance care or
call Social Security toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 to ask. TTY users should
call 1-877-486-2048.
If you are eligible for Medicare Part A but do not have it because you
can’t afford it, there is a program that may pay for Medicare Part A for
you. If you’re not eligible for Social Security or Medicare, you may still
be eligible for help in paying for medical expenses under your state
Medicaid program.
To find out if you are eligible for the Medicare Savings Programs:
Call your nearest medical assistance office.
Call Medicare’s 24-hour helpline toll-free at 1-800-MEDICARE
(1-800-633-4227) to find the number to call in your state. When calling,
ask for information on the Medicare Savings Programs, TTY users should
call 1-877-486-2048.
Visit www.medicare.gov.
2.Your monthly income in 2004 must be 1,068 for one person or less than
1,426 for a couple.
3.Your resources (such as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds) cannot be more
than $4,000 for one person or $6,000 for a couple. This amount does NOT
include the house you live in, one car, furniture, burial expenses, and
the combined face value of your life insurance policy if it is $1,500 or
less.
Remember: If you have a disability and lost your Medicare because you
returned to work, you are able to continue your Medicare Part A benefits
by paying the premium. If you have limited income and resources, your
state may be able to pay the premium for you. To qualify, you must be an
individual with a monthly income of less than $3,189 and resources of
$4,000 or less. Or you must be a couple with a monthly income of less than
$4,249 and resources of $6,000 or less.
I think I may qualify for the Medicare Savings Programs. What should I do
now?
If you believe you qualify for the Medicare Savings Programs, you must
file an application at a state, county, or local medical assistance
office. Remember, even if you only think you may qualify, it is still
worth applying!
You can find the numbers in the phone book under Medicaid, Social
Services, Medical Assistance, Human Services, or Community Services. You
may also:
Call toll-free 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). Someone there can help you
find the phone number to call in your state. TTY users should call
1-877-486-2048.
Visit www.medicare.gov.
Once you have the number in your state, call first to see what information
you need to bring with you. Documents may include your Medicare insurance
card, bank statements, property deeds, insurance policies, proof of income
and identity, and proof of any funeral or burial policies you may have.
Although some people think this is a lot of personal information to give
out, please be open to this request. Only necessary information is asked
for.
For more information on Medicare go to www.medicare.gov on the web or call
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.
Information taken from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Service (CMS)
publication #10126. |
