North Carolina Medicare Savings Programs (MSP) 2026.
If your monthly income in North Carolina 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 North Carolina MSP income limits
Compare your monthly income to the limits below. Asset limits apply ($9,660 single / $14,470 couple).
| 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. North Carolina may use higher limits — contact North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services directly to verify, or call us and we'll check.
How to apply for MSP in North Carolina
In North Carolina, MSP applications are processed by North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. You can apply by:
- Online: Visit https://www.ncdhhs.gov
- Phone: Call Apply through your county DSS office
- Free help: Call SHIIP (North Carolina SHIP) at 1-855-408-1212 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 NC 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 North Carolina, 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 North Carolina residents.
A licensed advisor reviews your income and helps you understand which Medicare Savings Program you qualify for — and walks you through the North Carolina application process. Free, no obligation.
Call (866) 534-1886Or request a callback · Mon–Fri 8a-8p ET, Sat 9a-2p ET