You may not have to pay the Part B premium if your income is low enough

Medicare Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care, and some preventive services. Most people pay a monthly premium for it — the amount changes each year based on income. But if your income falls below a certain level, you can get Part B without paying that premium through a program called Medicaid.

The income limit depends on where you live. Each state sets its own threshold, and some states are more generous than others. You do not have to be on any other benefit program to may have access to — Medicaid looks only at your income and assets.

There is also a separate route: if you have very low income and cannot work, you may already be receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), which automatically qualifies you for Medicaid in most states. That Medicaid then covers your Part B premium.

Key Takeaways

  • Medicaid in your state can pay your Medicare Part B premium if your income is below your state's limit, which varies from about $1,000 to $1,500 per month for a single person.
  • You explore for Medicaid through your state's Medicaid office or online portal, not through Medicare or Social Security.
  • If you already receive SSI, you are likely already on Medicaid and your Part B premium is covered — check your Medicare statement to confirm.
  • Processing takes two to four weeks in most states, so explore as soon as you know your income qualifies.
  • Your state may also cover other Medicare costs like deductibles and copays through a program called Medicaid Savings Plans.

How to find your state's income limit for Medicaid

Each state publishes its own Medicaid income limits on its Medicaid website. The easiest way to find yours is to search "[Your State] Medicaid income limits" or go directly to your state's Medicaid office website. Most state sites have a tool where you enter your income and household size and get an answer in seconds.

If you cannot find it online, call your state Medicaid office directly. The number is on your state's health department website. Have your monthly income ready — they will ask for gross income before taxes, or net income depending on your state's rules.

Income limits are usually higher for people over 65 than for working-age adults in the same state. If you are on Medicare, you are already 65 or older, so use the senior income limit, not the general one.

how the process works for Medicaid to cover your Part B premium

You explore through your state Medicaid office, not Medicare. Most states now let you explore online through their Medicaid portal. Search "[Your State] Medicaid explore online" to find the link.

You will need to provide your Social Security number, proof of income (recent pay stub, tax return, or a letter from Social Security showing your benefit amount), and proof of residency (utility bill or lease). The whole process takes about 15 minutes online.

If you prefer to explore by mail or phone, your state Medicaid office can send you a paper form. Call the number on your state health department website to request one. Mail-in applications take longer — usually four to six weeks instead of two to three.

Once you are approved, Medicaid sends you a card and notifies Medicare automatically. Your Part B premium stops coming out of your Social Security check within one or two months.

What happens if your income is slightly above the limit

Some states have a higher income limit for people who are medically needy — meaning they have high medical bills that reduce their countable income. If you are just over the regular limit but have ongoing medical costs, you may still may have access to under this route.

To explore this, call your state Medicaid office and ask if they have a medically needy program for seniors. Not all states do. If yours does, you will need to show medical bills or prescriptions that bring your income below the threshold when subtracted.

This process takes longer than a regular Medicaid process — usually six to eight weeks — because the state has to review your medical expenses. But it is worth asking about if you are close to the income limit.

Other Medicare costs Medicaid can cover besides Part B

Once you are on Medicaid, you may also be able to join a Medicaid Savings Plan (sometimes called a QMB, SLMB, or QI program, depending on your income level). These programs pay your Medicare deductibles, copays, and coinsurance — not just your Part B premium.

You do not explore separately for a Medicaid Savings Plan. Once Medicaid approves you, ask your caseworker whether you may have access to for one. may be able to access depends on your exact income level and varies by state.

If you may have access to, the Medicaid Savings Plan is automatic — there is nothing more to do. Your deductibles and copays are covered when you show your Medicaid card at the doctor or hospital.

What to do if you are denied

If your state denies your Medicaid process, you have the right to appeal. The denial letter will explain why and tell you how to request a hearing. You usually have 30 days to appeal.

Common reasons for denial are income above the limit, failure to provide proof of income, or not meeting your state's residency requirement. If your income changed or you have new documents, you can reapply at any time.

If you believe the state made an error, contact your state Medicaid office's appeals unit. Many states also have legal aid organizations that help seniors with Medicaid appeals for free. Search "[Your State] legal aid seniors" to find one near you.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I get Medicaid to pay my Part B premium, do I still have Medicare?

Yes. Medicaid does not replace Medicare — it just pays the premium and other costs that Medicare does not cover. You keep your Medicare card and use it the same way. Medicaid works alongside Medicare to reduce what you pay out of pocket.

Will getting Medicaid affect my Social Security or other benefits?

Medicaid does not reduce your Social Security check or other income-based benefits. However, if you have assets above your state's limit (usually $2,000 for a single person), you may not may have access to for Medicaid. Some states count a home and car differently, so ask your caseworker about your specific situation.

How long does it take to get Medicaid after I explore?

Online applications are usually processed within two to three weeks. Paper applications take four to six weeks. Once approved, it takes another one to two months for Medicare to stop charging you the Part B premium. If you are urgent, call your state Medicaid office and ask if they can expedite your case.

Can I explore for Medicaid if I am already on Medicare Part B and paying the premium?

Yes. You can explore at any time, even if you have been paying the premium for years. Once approved, Medicaid will cover future premiums. Some states can also refund premiums you paid in the months before approval, though this varies — ask your caseworker.

What if my income goes up after I get Medicaid?

You must report income changes to your state Medicaid office. If your income rises above the limit, your Medicaid coverage will end. The state will tell you when. You can reapply if your income drops again later.