Changes in Medicare Savings Programs Could Save You Money

If you are a Massachusetts resident on Medicare with limited income, you may qualify for help paying your Medicare health insurances costs through Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs). In Massachusetts, they were previously known as MassHealth Buy-In (MHBI).

Medicare Savings Programs (MSPs) help individuals with low incomes pay their Medicare premiums and, in some cases, their out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and cost sharing.

This year, there are new rules in effect that allow more people to access this program. Previously, your assets were taken into consideration when you applied. That is no longer the case. Determination is now based on income. If you own property, you are now able to apply to join the program. If you are single and your income is at or below: $2,824 per month you can qualify for the program. If you are a married couple and your income is at or below $3,833 per month.

 

If you qualify for the program, you could save up to $3,000 this year. It’s important to note you don’t need to be on MassHealth to qualify.

You can find out more information at mass.gov/MedicareSavings. You can also download an application. To request an application or to learn more, call the MassHealth Customer Service Center at (800) 841-2900, TDD/TTY: 711 MassHealth representatives are available Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.