If you need help paying Medicare costs, there are programs that can help you save money.

Four Medicare Savings Programs are available that could save you money on Medicare expenses (like premiums, deductibles and coinsurance):

• Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)
• Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
• Qualifying Individual (QI)
• Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI)

If you qualify for QMB, SLMB or QI, you automatically qualify for extra help paying the costs of Medicare prescription drug (part D) coverage. It is important to call or fill out an application if you think you could qualify for savings. The only way to know if you qualify for sure is to apply. Call the South Dakota Department of Social Services Medicaid office at 1-800-597-1603 or contact SHIINE at 1-800-536-8197 to be prescreened for the Medicare Savings Program.

If you don’t qualify for the Medicare Savings Programs, you may still qualify for “Extra Help” paying your Part D premium. The income and resource guidelines change each year. Call SHIINE at 1-800-536-8197 for more information on programs to help with Medicare costs.