New Jersey Medicare Savings Program (MSP) 2026: Income Limits and How to Apply

New Jersey residents may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program through NJSave if they have Medicare Part A and limited income and assets. In 2026, the highest listed income limit is $21,546 a year for one person or $29,214 for a married couple for QI; QMB and SLMB have lower limits and offer different levels of help. QMB also protects against Medicare-covered deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.

New Jersey MSP 2026: key facts

• New Jersey uses one NJSave application to screen for QMB, SLMB, and QI.
• The 2026 asset limits are $9,950 for one person and $14,910 for a married couple.
• QMB covers Part A and Part B premiums plus Medicare-covered cost-sharing; SLMB and QI cover the Part B premium.
• Free application help is available from New Jersey’s SHIP program, Area Agencies on Aging, and the NJSave hotline at 1-800-792-9745.

What are New Jersey’s MSP income and asset limits?

The New Jersey Department of Human Services publishes the following annual limits for 2026. The agency’s figures are the relevant state-specific screening figures, and the state decides the final eligibility result.

1. QMB: income up to $15,960 for one person or $21,640 for a married couple; assets up to $9,950 or $14,910. QMB pays Part A and Part B premiums and Medicare-covered deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
2. SLMB: income up to $19,152 for one person or $25,968 for a married couple; assets up to $9,950 or $14,910. SLMB pays the Part B premium.
3. QI: income up to $21,546 for one person or $29,214 for a married couple; assets up to $9,950 or $14,910. QI pays the Part B premium.

These limits come from the state’s 2026 New Jersey MSP program page. QI is only for someone who does not qualify for another Medicaid coverage category, and Medicare says states process QI applications first-come, first-served, with priority for people who had QI the prior year.

What counts as an asset in New Jersey?

New Jersey’s Medicare-cost help page describes the asset test as applying to assets other than a home and car. The published limits are $9,950 for an individual and $14,910 for a couple in 2026. Because a resource review is individual, an applicant should provide the statements requested by NJSave rather than self-exclude based on a rough savings estimate.

Example: a single applicant with annual income of $20,000 is below New Jersey’s $21,546 QI income limit but must also meet the $9,950 asset limit and the program’s other requirements. If the same person’s income is low enough for QMB, the QMB tier provides broader Medicare cost-sharing protection.

How does NJSave work?

NJSave is the state’s single online application for several assistance programs, including QMB, SLMB, and QI. The state says applicants can apply online or use an English or Spanish paper application. NJSave also provides written instructions and a video walkthrough.

1. Open NJSave and choose the online application, or download the paper application.
2. Gather proof of Medicare Part A, income, and assets. Keep copies of what you submit.
3. Answer all program-screening questions. NJSave can screen one application for QMB, SLMB, QI, and other available assistance.
4. Use the county Area Agency on Aging, SHIP, or call 1-800-792-9745 if you need unbiased, no-cost help completing the form.

How much can a New Jersey MSP save?

The standard Medicare Part B premium is $202.90 per month in 2026, according to CMS. That is $2,434.80 over 12 months before any adjustment. SLMB and QI address that premium; QMB addresses it and Medicare-covered cost-sharing. The exact effect on a person’s bills depends on the tier and their Medicare coverage. CMS’s 2026 Part B premium fact sheet has the official premium amount.

Should you apply if you are unsure?

Yes. Medicare encourages people to apply even if they are not sure they qualify because states may use rules that differ from the federal reference limits. Start with the MSP eligibility checker for a quick estimate, then use NJSave for the state’s decision. This article is educational, not legal or benefits advice.

Frequently asked questions