Arizona Medicare Savings Programs

For many older adults, especially those with chronic conditions, out-of-pocket Medicare costs can add up quickly. In Arizona, there are Fee-For-Service Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) that can help pay for Medicare costs. You may qualify for an Arizona Fee-For-Service MSP if you are enrolled in Medicare—or are about to enroll—and you have a limited income. ## What are the Medicare Savings Programs? Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) are state-run Medicaid programs that help people with low income pay for their Medicare costs. These costs include: - **Premiums:** Money you pay to keep your Medicare plan - **Deductibles:** Money you pay before Medicare pays for your care - **Copays:** A set fee you pay to visit your regular doctor or a specialist There are four MSPs, each with different eligibility rules. Older adults and younger adults with disabilities who may not qualify for full Medicaid may still be able to enroll in one of the MSPs. MSPs are available in every state, but not every type of MSP is offered in every state. Most MSPs are run by a state’s Medicaid office. In Arizona, MSPs are handled by the Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). **There are three Medicare Savings Programs in Arizona:** - **Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)**: This program has the lowest income limit and covers your Medicare Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and copayments. - **Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)** and**Qualifying Individual (QI-1)**: These programs have slightly higher income limits and cover your Medicare Part B Premium. ## How do I know if I'm eligible for an MSP? You must either be enrolled in Medicare or expect to enroll soon. Each Medicare Savings Program has its own income limit (the most money you can earn in a month to qualify). The monthly income limits for MSPs in Arizona are listed below and are effective as of April 1, 2026: **Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program (QMB):** Family size Maximum monthly income (at or below 100% FPL/+ $20 income disregard Individual $ 1,350 Couple $ 1,824 Source: [Medicare.gov](https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs) **Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB):** Family size Maximum monthly income ( between 100-120% FPL/+ $20 disregard) Individual $ 1,616 Couple $ 2,184 Source: [Medicare.gov](https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs) **Qualifying Individual (QI):** Family size Maximum monthly income (between 121-135% FPL/+ $20 disregard) Individual $ 1,816 Couple $ 2,455 Source: [Medicare.gov](https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/help/medicare-savings-programs) You should apply to the Arizona Medicare Savings Programs if you need help, even if you think your income might be too high. Certain types of income are not counted, and the only way to know for certain if you qualify is to apply. While there is an income limit, Arizona does not have a limit on resources or assets, such as bank account balances, stocks, investment properties, etc. ## How do I apply for a Medicare Savings Program in Arizona? Follow the steps below to apply for the Arizona MSPs. **1. Gather important documents** Before you apply, have the following information handy to make your application process easier: - The amount of income you get from jobs and other sources - Your assets, such as bank account and investment account balances - Medicare numbers, Social Security numbers, and birth dates of everyone applying or in your household **2. Complete an application** The quickest and easiest way to apply for the Medicare Savings Programs and other public assistance benefits is through the Health-e-Arizona PLUS (HEAP)[ online application](https://www.healthearizonaplus.gov/Login/Default). All your personal information is kept 100% private and protected by special security technology. [Apply Online](https://formsportal.mo.gov/content/forms/af/moa/my-dss/family-support-division/im-1msp/im-1msp/.html) Click on the button above. HEAP will prompt you for three options: - I have an account - I want to create an account - I do not want to create an account at this time. All three options will allow you to submit an application online. **APPLY BY MAIL** Fill out Arizona's Medicare Savings Program application form and mail it to the MA-SP Office: 801 East Jefferson Street Phoenix, AZ 85034 Or fax it to 1-602-258-4619 [Download Application](https://www.azahcccs.gov/Members/Downloads/DE103.pdf) ## How can I get help with my application? - Visit a Benefits Enrollment Center (BEC), if there’s one near you.[ ](https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-you)[See if there’s one in your area](https://benefitscheckup.org/article/how-to-find-a-benefits-enrollment-center-near-you). - Call AHCCCS Medical Assistance Specialty Programs: - If you're calling from 480, 602, 623 area codes: Call [1-602-417-5010](tel:1-602-417-5010) and choose option 5. - If you're calling from 520, 760, 928 area codes: Call [1-800-528-0142](tel:1-800-528-0142). - Contact the [Arizona State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)](https://des.az.gov/medicare-assistance) at [1-800-432-4040](tel:1-800-432-4040). **NCOA also has a HelpLine that you can call to get free support. To get started today, call [1-800-794-6559](tel:+18007946559).** **Special Needs Plans (SNPs)** You may also want to find out if you qualify for a Special Needs Plan (SNP). SNPs are a special type of Medicare Advantage plan for people who need extra help paying for and managing their care. You may qualify for an SNP if you meet one of the following conditions: - You have both Medicare and Medicaid (including QMB). - You have a serious and disabling chronic medical condition. - You live in a nursing home, or you live at home but have high care needs and could qualify for a nursing home. Call [1-800-633-4227](tel:1-800-633-4227) to see if an SNP plan is available where you live and if you qualify. ## Can I get help paying for my prescription drugs in Arizona? Once you're enrolled in a Medicare Savings Program, you will be signed up for the Medicare Part D [Extra Help program](https://benefitscheckup.org/medicare-rx-extra-help-application/). If you meet the guidelines for Extra Help, you will have a low (or no) deductible and a low (or no) premium. In general, you will pay much less for your prescriptions. You can learn more about Extra Help and even [apply on our website](https://benefitscheckup.org/medicare-rx-extra-help-application-prepare/).