How to apply for Medicare Savings Programs in Florida (QMB, SLMB, QI-1 Medicare Buy-In)
Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), Office of Economic Self Sufficiency (ACCESS)
Who it's for
Florida's Medicare Savings Programs, also called Medicare Buy-In, help people with Medicare and limited income pay their Medicare costs. Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) get Medicare Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance paid, with income below 100% of the federal poverty level. Special Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries (SLMB) get the Part B premium paid, with income below 120%. Qualifying Individuals 1 (QI-1) get the Part B premium paid, with income below 135%. For 2026 that is about $1,816 a month for one person or $2,455 for a couple at the QI-1 level, after the $20 that Florida does not count, and countable assets of $9,950 for one person or $14,910 for a couple. You must have Medicare Part A. Anyone approved also automatically gets Extra Help with Part D drug costs. Apply by completing the Medicaid/Medicare Buy-In application and mailing or faxing it to a DCF Customer Service Center, or ask Social Security to use your Extra Help application for this program. Call 1-850-300-4323 for help.
Shown against the highest tier (QI-1); lower income qualifies for more help (QMB also pays Medicare deductibles and co-insurance). Florida sets the limits as percentages of the federal poverty level, so the dollar figures shown are the 2026 federal standard and change each year. You must have or be able to get Medicare Part A. QI-1 is federally funded and can close if the state's yearly funding runs out, and people who get other Medicaid cannot get QI-1. DCF 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
- Medicare card (showing Part A)
- Proof of income
- Proof of savings and other resources
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-850-300-4323
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Medicare Savings Programs in Florida (QMB, SLMB, QI-1 Medicare Buy-In). 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 medicare card (showing Part A), proof of income, proof of savings and other resources — 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.