How to apply for Medicare Savings Programs in Florida (QMB, SLMB, QI-1 Medicare Buy-In)

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.

What you'll need

• Medicare card (showing Part A)
• Proof of income
• Proof of savings and other resources

Where to apply

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.

Step by step

1. Check that you have or can get Medicare Part A. This program is for people with Medicare and limited income and resources.
2. Gather your Medicare card showing Part A, proof of income, and proof of savings and other resources.
3. Apply through Florida DCF ACCESS online or by phone at 1-850-300-4323. You can also complete the Medicaid/Medicare Buy-In application and mail or fax it to a DCF Customer Service Center, or ask Social Security to use your Extra Help application for this program.
4. Give complete and accurate information about your income and resources. Florida sets the limits as percentages of the federal poverty level, so the dollar figures change each year.
5. Watch for notices or requests from DCF and respond if more information is needed.
6. Renew your coverage each year when DCF asks you to renew.

What to expect: After you apply, DCF makes the final decision and may contact you for more information. If you are approved, the level of help depends on your income. Lower income can qualify for more help, and anyone approved also gets Extra Help with Part D drug costs. 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. Renewals are annual.

Renewals

annual