Medicare Costs.
If you have Medicare and a limited income, you may qualify for financial assistance that helps lower your Medicare costs. Depending on the program, it may help pay your Medicare premiums and, in some cases, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
guidance
jargon
Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-administered programs that help eligible people with Medicare lower their healthcare costs. Depending on the program you qualify for, assistance may include Medicare premiums and, in some cases, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
Illinois offers three Medicare Savings Programs: Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB), Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB), and Qualifying Individual (QI). Each program provides a different level of financial assistance.
Depending on the program you qualify for, assistance may include:
- Medicare Part A premiums (if applicable)
- Medicare Part B premiums
- Deductibles
- Coinsurance
- Copayments
You don’t need to decide which Medicare Savings Program to apply for. In Illinois, you complete a single Medicare Savings Program application. After reviewing your eligibility, the State of Illinois determines whether you qualify for QMB, SLMB, or QI.
Who May
Qualify?
To qualify for an Illinois Medicare Savings Program, you must meet certain eligibility requirements established by the State of Illinois. In general, applicants must be enrolled in Medicare, live in Illinois, and meet the program’s income and applicable resource (asset) limits.
Eligibility is based on your individual circumstances. The State of Illinois reviews each application to determine whether you qualify and, if eligible, which Medicare Savings Program applies to your situation.
Source: Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) and Illinois Department on Aging (SHIP). Last reviewed: July 2026.
The income limits shown above are based on official Illinois government guidelines and apply only to Illinois residents. Income and resource limits may change over time. Final eligibility is determined by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS).
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. We help you understand the Medicare Savings Program, prepare your application, and guide you through each step of the process with confidence.
Review your eligibility
We review your situation, explain requirements, and help you understand whether applying for may be worthwhile.
Prepare information
We help you gather the information and documents commonly needed before submitting your Medicare Savings Program application.
Complete application
We guide you through the MSP application step by step and help ensure everything is completed clearly and accurately.
Follow up if needed
If the State of Illinois requests additional information, we help you understand and prepare what is needed and what to expect next.
Questions?
We’ve Got Answers
What is the difference between QMB, SLMB, and QI?
All three Medicare Savings Programs help reduce Medicare costs, but they provide different levels of financial assistance. QMB offers the most comprehensive coverage, while SLMB and QI help pay your Medicare Part B premium. You do not need to choose a specific program yourself—the State of Illinois reviews your application and determines which program you qualify for, if eligible.
Do I choose which Medicare Savings Program to apply for?
No. In Illinois, you complete one Medicare Savings Program application. After reviewing your eligibility, the State of Illinois determines whether you qualify for QMB, SLMB, or QI based on your individual circumstances.
What documents do I need to apply?
The documents required may vary depending on your situation, but you are generally asked to provide proof of identity, Medicare information, income, and financial resources. Additional documents may be requested if needed.
Will I lose my Medicare benefits if I apply?
No. Applying for a Medicare Savings Program does not affect your Medicare coverage. If you qualify, the program simply helps pay certain Medicare costs, depending on the level of assistance you receive.
What if my income has changed recently?
If your financial situation has changed due to retirement, reduced work hours, or another life event, you may still qualify even if you did not qualify in the past. We recommend reviewing your current situation before deciding whether to apply.
Let’s Lower Your
Medicare Costs.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, we’re here to help. We’ll review your situation, guide you through the application process, and help you prepare everything needed to apply with confidence.