How to apply for Illinois Medicare Savings Program (QMB / SLMB / QI)

Who it's for

Illinois Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB and QI-1) help people with Medicare pay Medicare costs. QMB (income up to 100% of the federal poverty level) pays Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles and coinsurance; SLMB (up to 120%) and QI-1 (up to 135%) pay the Part B premium ($202.90 a month in 2026). For 2026 the QI-1 monthly income limits are about $1,796 for one person and $2,435 for a couple, and Illinois disregards an extra $25 of income. Countable resources (not counting your home, one car, burial plots and furniture) cannot exceed $9,950 for one person or $14,910 for a couple. You must have Medicare Part A; there is no age requirement, so people under 65 who have Medicare because of a disability can qualify. Enrollees also qualify automatically for Extra Help with Part D drug costs. Apply online at ABE (abe.illinois.gov) or call the Department of Human Services at 1-800-843-6154.

What you'll need

• Medicare card (Part A)
• Proof of Illinois residency
• Proof of income
• Proof of resources (bank statements)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Illinois Medicare Savings Program (QMB / SLMB / QI). 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 (Part A), proof of Illinois residency, proof of income — 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. Gather your Medicare card to show you have Part A.
2. Gather proof of Illinois residency, proof of income, and proof of resources such as bank statements.
3. Check that your income and resources may fit the program rules for QMB, SLMB, or QI-1. For 2026, QI-1 income limits are estimated at about $1,796 a month for one person and $2,435 for a couple, and Illinois disregards an extra $25 of income. Resource limits are $9,950 for one person or $14,910 for a couple.
4. Apply online through ABE or apply by phone by calling 1-800-843-6154.
5. Complete the application and provide the required documents when asked.
6. Watch for a notice about your application and respond if the state asks for more information.

What to expect: After you apply, the state reviews your information and may contact you for more details or documents. If you are approved, the program can help pay Medicare costs, and enrollment also gives you Extra Help with Part D drug costs. Renew coverage every year. Income and resource limits are based on 2026 estimates, and the exact figures are published each April.

Renewals

annual