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Medicare Savings Programs and Extra Help in Texas
If you have limited income and resources, Texas may help pay your Medicare premiums and other costs through a Medicare Savings Program (MSP). If you qualify for an MSP, you also automatically qualify for Extra Help with drug costs.
2026 federal limits
| Program | What it helps pay | Monthly income limit (individual / couple) | Resource limit (individual / couple) |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) | Part A and B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance and copays | $1,350 / $1,824 | $9,950 / $14,910 |
| SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary) | Part B premium | $1,616 / $2,184 | $9,950 / $14,910 |
| QI (Qualifying Individual) | Part B premium (apply every year; first come, first served) | $1,816 / $2,455 | $9,950 / $14,910 |
The Part B premium these programs can pay is $202.90 a month in 2026. Even if your income or resources are a little higher, apply: states can count some income differently.
Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy)
Extra Help lowers Part D premiums, deductibles and copays. If you qualify through an MSP, you pay no more than $12.65 in 2026 for each covered drug. People with Extra Help do not pay the Part D late enrollment penalty and can change drug plans more often. You can also apply for Extra Help directly through Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or ssa.gov.
How to apply in Texas
- Apply for Medicare Savings Programs through Texas Health and Human Services: 1-800-252-9240, 2-1-1 or YourTexasBenefits.com.
- Free help applying: Texas HICAP at 1-800-252-9240.
- See also our Extra Help page.
Sources: Medicare.gov: Medicare Savings Programs (2026 limits); Texas HHS: Medicare help. Texas may count income and resources differently; Texas HHS decides eligibility.
Frequently asked questions
What is the income limit for QMB in 2026?
The federal QMB limit is $1,350 a month for an individual and $1,824 for a married couple, with resources up to $9,950 or $14,910. Texas makes the final decision.
How do I apply for a Medicare Savings Program in Texas?
Apply through Texas Health and Human Services by calling 1-800-252-9240, dialing 2-1-1, or visiting YourTexasBenefits.com.
Does a Medicare Savings Program include Extra Help?
Yes. If you qualify for QMB, SLMB or QI, you automatically qualify for Extra Help with Part D drug costs.
How much are drug copays with Extra Help in 2026?
If you qualify through a Medicare Savings Program, you pay no more than $12.65 in 2026 for each drug your plan covers.
Talk with a licensed agent
Questions about your Medicare options? Call 1-844-438-6284 (TTY 711) or request a free, no-obligation quote. We do not offer every plan available in your area.
Sources for 2026 figures: CMS 2026 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles; Medicare.gov: Medicare costs; Medicare.gov: Part D costs. For information on all of your options, contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048).