Illinois Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) 2026.
If your monthly income in Illinois is below the limits below, the state can pay your Part B premium ($185/month in 2026), your Part A and B deductibles, and your Medicare copays — saving you $2,200+/year. We screen for eligibility free.
2026 Illinois MSP income limits
Compare your monthly income to the limits below. no asset limit for msp applicants in illinois.
| Program | Single income limit | Couple income limit | What it covers |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary) | $1,255/mo | $1,704/mo | Part A & B premiums, deductibles, copays |
| SLMB (Specified Low-Income) | $1,506/mo | $2,044/mo | Part B premium only |
| QI (Qualifying Individual) | $1,695/mo | $2,300/mo | Part B premium only (must reapply each year) |
| QDWI (Working Disabled) | $2,510/mo | $3,408/mo | Part A premium for working disabled under 65 |
Income limits are 2026 Federal Poverty Level baselines. Illinois may use higher limits — contact Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services directly to verify, or call us and we'll check.
How to apply for MSP in Illinois
In Illinois, MSP applications are processed by Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. You can apply by:
- Online: Visit https://www.illinois.gov/hfs
- Phone: Call 1-800-843-6154
- Free help: Call Illinois SHIP at 1-800-252-8966 for free state-funded counseling
What you'll need to apply
- Proof of income (Social Security award letter, pension statements, recent pay stubs)
- Proof of resources (bank statements, retirement account balances, vehicle title, home value if rental)
- Your Medicare card
- Proof of IL residency (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- Social Security number
Don't forget: Extra Help (LIS) for prescription drugs
Separately from MSP, the federal Extra Help (Low Income Subsidy / LIS) program reduces your Part D drug costs to as little as $0 in copays. 2026 limits:
- Single income: Up to $1,903/month
- Couple income: Up to $2,575/month
- Resources: Up to $17,220 single / $34,360 couple (2026)
If you qualify for QMB, SLMB, or QI in Illinois, you automatically qualify for Extra Help — no separate application needed. Otherwise, apply at ssa.gov/medicare/part-d-extra-help.
Free MSP eligibility screening for Illinois residents.
A licensed advisor reviews your income and helps you understand which Medicare Savings Program you qualify for — and walks you through the Illinois application process. Free, no obligation.
Call (866) 534-1886Or request a callback · Mon–Fri 8a-8p ET, Sat 9a-2p ET