How to apply for Medicare Savings Programs in Arkansas (QMB, SMB, QI-1)
Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of County Operations (DCO)
Who it's for
Arkansas DHS runs the Medicare Savings Programs, which help people with Medicare pay their Medicare costs. QMB pays the Part B premium, deductibles and copays. SMB (called SLMB in other states) and QI-1 pay the Part B premium. The monthly income limits are QMB $1,330 for one person or $1,803.33 for a couple, SMB $1,596 or $2,164, and QI-1 $1,795.50 or $2,434.50. The savings limit is $9,950 for one person or $14,910 for a couple. SMB and QI-1 can pay for up to 3 months before you apply. Apply online at Access Arkansas, at your local DHS county office, or call the Access Arkansas Call Center at 1-855-372-1084.
You must have Medicare. The first $20 of monthly income is not counted, and some other income is not counted either, so apply even if you are a little over the limit. QI-1 cannot pay for months before January 1 of the year you apply. QMB does not pay for months before you apply. DHS makes the final decision.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Discover my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Call to ask what to bring
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-855-372-1084
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Medicare Savings Programs in Arkansas (QMB, SMB, QI-1). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need call to ask what to bring — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"
Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.
Renewals
annual
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Discover my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.