Blog

It’s important for agents and Connecticut residents on Medicare to stay up to date on changes in healthcare programs that impact their lives. One such program is the Medicare Savings Program (MSP).  This program provides assistance to beneficiaries with limited incomes cover their Medicare costs. Understanding the CT MSP income limits 2024 is vital for beneficiaries.  Especially when they depend on financial assistance to get the healthcare they need.

What is the Medicare Savings Program

The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) is a state-administered program.  It helps individuals with limited income and resources pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. The program is available to those eligible for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and meets specific income and asset criteria. In Connecticut, the MSP is administered by the Department of Social Services (DSS) and provides critical financial assistance to eligible beneficiaries.

Income Limits for the CT Medicare Savings Program 2024

Because the Medicare Savings Program in Connecticut consists of 4 levels of help, the income limits vary based on each separate program within MSP.  The state also adjusts the income limits based on the size of each household.  The income limits for each MSP programs, as of 2024, are listed below.

QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) Program

The QMB program provides the highest level of help.  Those who qualify for this program, have an income level of up to 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).  This program helps pay for Medicare premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copays.

SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) Program

The SLMB program provides assistance with Medicare Part B premiums. To qualify for this program, individuals should have an income level of between 100% and 120% of the FPL.

ALMB (Additional Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) Program

The ALMB program provides payment assistance with the Medicare Part B premium for those who have income between 120% and 135% of the FPL.

QDWI (Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals) Program

To qualify for the QDWI program, individuals must be under age 65, disabled, working, and not eligible for Medicaid.  These individuals must have income of up to 200% of the FPL.  This program provides assistance for individuals paying their Medicare Part A premiums.

Please note: the income limits are subject to change annually.  There are other factors that affect MSP eligibility including: household size and financial resources.

How to Apply for Connecticut’s Medicare Savings Program

Beneficiaries who want to apply for CT’s MSP program, can do so through the DSS (Department of Social Services). The beneficiary must provide information such as: income, assets, Medicare enrollment, and other relevant information. DSS provides help completing the application for anyone who needs it.

Individuals apply for benefits by completing a CT state application form. There are several ways to complete and return the form, including;  online, through the mail, or dropped off at a local DSS Regional Office.  An authorized person can do the application for the beneficiary if they need them to.

For a list of local DSS offices, click this link.

To apply online, visit www.connect.ct.gov, you will see a tab to ‘Apply for Benefits.’

Beneficiaries who wish to apply for MSP program only, please download and complete application below:

Medicare Savings Program Application (W-1QMB)

Formulario de Renovación de programas de ahorro de Medicare (W-1QMBS)

To apply for the MSP program as well as additional programs such as: SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid for Employees with Disabilities (MED-Connect), Medicaid for the Aged/Blind/Disabled (HUSKY C), and/or cash assistance, download the application below.

Click here to apply for Husky C and or Cash assistance program benefits

Haga clic aqui para Husky o asistencia en efective CW-1ES Solicitud de Beneficios

MSP in Connecticut provides an essential service to many individuals. It provides financial assistance to cover Medicare costs. It is necessary to be aware of the income limits. eligible individuals can take advantage of this valuable program and access the healthcare they need without undue financial strain. As we navigate the complexities of healthcare, let’s ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive quality care and support.

Agents, if you want to learn more about Medicare, subscribe to our YouTube channel

You have the right to a copy of the completed application. You can request a copy from DSS at any time in either in electronic or paper format.

For additional information on how to apply, please visit www.ct.gov/dss/apply.