Maryland Medicare Savings Program (MSP) 2026: Income Limits and Guide

Maryland operates Medicare Savings Programs through the Maryland Department of Health and local Departments of Social Services. These programs assist low-income Medicare recipients by paying Part B premiums and, for QMB enrollees, covering cost sharing across the state’s extensive medical network.

Maryland MSP income standards for 2026

Maryland evaluates applicants against federal poverty percentage guidelines:

• Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB): Monthly income limit of $1,350 for an individual or $1,824 for a couple. Covers Medicare Part A premiums if required, Part B premiums, hospital deductibles, and doctor coinsurance.
• Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB): Monthly income limit of $1,616 for an individual or $2,184 for a couple. Covers the monthly Medicare Part B premium.
• Qualifying Individual (QI): Monthly income limit of $1,816 for an individual or $2,455 for a couple. Covers the monthly Part B premium on a first-come allocation basis.

Maryland resource limits and asset rules

Maryland enforces federal resource standards for its Medicare Savings Programs. In 2026, countable assets cannot exceed $9,950 for a single applicant and $14,910 for a married couple. Liquid assets such as bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and secondary properties count toward the ceiling. Your primary residence, personal vehicle, clothing, and designated burial plots remain exempt.

Coordination with Maryland unique hospital rate system

Maryland operates under a unique all-payer hospital model regulated by the Health Services Cost Review Commission. Regardless of standard hospital rate structures in the state, federal law completely shields QMB enrollees from hospital inpatient deductibles, outpatient facility fees, and emergency copayments.

How to apply in Maryland

1. Assemble financial proof, including Social Security verification statements, pension pay stubs, and bank account summaries.
2. Submit an online application through the Maryland state portal at myMDTHINK online services.
3. Alternatively, submit a paper application form to your local county Department of Social Services.
4. Check your qualification potential with our free MSP tier screener.

For a comprehensive look at the papers you will need for your caseworker, read our guide to documents needed for an MSP application and review myMDTHINK services.

Frequently asked questions