How to apply for Medicare Savings Program in Kentucky (QMB, SLMB, QI-1)
Kentucky Department for Medicaid Services, through local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) offices
Who it's for
Kentucky Medicaid's Medicare Savings Program pays some or all of your Medicare costs. Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) get Medicare premiums, deductibles, and co-insurance paid. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiaries (SLMB) and Qualifying Individuals (QI-1) get the Medicare Part B premium paid. You must have Medicare Part A. The 2026 monthly income limits are QMB $1,330 for one person or $1,804 for a couple, SLMB $1,596 or $2,164, and QI-1 $1,796 or $2,435; the first $20 of income is not counted. Countable resources must be $9,950 or less for one person or $14,910 for a couple; your home, your car, and up to $1,500 set aside for burial do not count. Apply at your local DCBS office, by mailing the Medicare Savings Program application (MAP-205) to DCBS, or through kynect. Call 1-855-306-8959 for help.
Shown against the highest tier (QI-1); lower income qualifies for more help (QMB also pays Medicare deductibles and co-insurance). 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. The state Medicaid agency 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: 1-855-306-8959
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Medicare Savings Program in Kentucky (QMB, SLMB, 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 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.