Colorado Medicare Savings Program 2026: Health First Colorado Guide

Colorado administers Medicare Savings Programs through the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing under Health First Colorado, the state Medicaid program. Colorado established higher resource limits than federal minimums, enabling more seniors and adults with disabilities to protect their retirement savings while receiving state premium relief.

Health First Colorado MSP income limits for 2026

Colorado applies standard federal poverty guidelines for monthly income qualification:

• Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB): Monthly income ceiling of $1,350 for an individual or $1,824 for a couple. Covers Medicare Part A and B premiums, hospital deductibles, and doctor coinsurance.
• Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB): Monthly income ceiling of $1,616 for an individual or $2,184 for a couple. Covers your monthly Medicare Part B premium.
• Qualified Individual (QI): Monthly income ceiling of $1,816 for an individual or $2,455 for a couple. Covers the full Part B premium, funded through federal grant allocations.

Colorado higher resource thresholds

Colorado modified its state Medicaid plan to raise asset limits above federal standards. In 2026, countable assets cannot exceed $11,160 for an individual or $17,470 for a married couple. Countable resources include bank deposits, certificates of deposit, and stock accounts. Health First Colorado exempts your home, one vehicle, household goods, and dedicated burial policies.

Income deductions and calculations in Colorado

Colorado caseworkers apply the federal $20 general income disregard to all applicant households. If you receive $1,365 in gross monthly Social Security payments, the deduction reduces countable income to $1,345, qualifying you for full QMB benefits.

How to apply in Colorado

1. Gather your financial proof, including bank statements, Social Security benefit awards, and monthly income documentation.
2. Submit an application online through Colorado PEAK, the state health portal.
3. Alternatively, visit your local county department of human services or call the Colorado benefits hotline.
4. Check your potential benefit tier in seconds using our online MSP qualification tool.

For a comprehensive look at how resource caps vary across the country, read our guide on Medicare Savings Program asset rules and visit Health First Colorado.

Frequently asked questions