QDWI — Qualified Disabled Working Individual
The Qualified Disabled Working Individual (QDWI) program helps individuals who received Social Security and Medicare because of a disability, but who lost their Social Security cash benefits and free Medicare Part A because they returned to work, by requiring state Medicaid programs to pay their Medicare Part A monthly premium.
Estimated annual savings: up to $6,216/year
Covers the full Medicare Part A premium ($518/month in 2026, or $285/month for those with 30–39 work credits).
Who Qualifies for QDWI?
You may qualify for the QDWI program if all of the following apply:
- ✓You are under age 65 and have a disabling impairment under Social Security rules.
- ✓You returned to work and lost your Social Security disability benefits and premium-free Part A due to your earnings.
- ✓You are not otherwise receiving full Medicaid benefits in your state.
- ✓Your countable income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.
- ✓Your resources (assets) do not exceed state asset standards ($4,000 single / $6,000 couple federally).
2026 QDWI Income & Asset Limits
QDWI has higher monthly income limits than QMB, SLMB, or QI (set at 200% FPL), but stricter asset limits.
| Household size | Monthly income limit | Asset limit |
|---|---|---|
| Individual | $2,510/mo | $4,000 |
| Married couple | $3,407/mo | $6,000 |
| Alaska (individual) | $3,137/mo | $4,000 |
| Hawaii (individual) | $2,887/mo | $4,000 |
Note: Standard earned income disregards apply ($65 earned income disregard plus half of the remaining earnings, plus the $20 general unearned disregard). Your primary home and one vehicle are exempt from the asset test.
What QDWI Covers vs. What It Does Not
What QDWI Covers
- ✓ Medicare Part A monthly premium ($518/mo or $285/mo)
- ✓ Protects your hospital insurance coverage while working
What QDWI Does NOT Cover
- ✗ Medicare Part B premiums ($202.90/mo)
- ✗ Part A or Part B deductibles or copays
- ✗ Prescription drugs (Part D)
How to Apply for QDWI
Like all Medicare Savings Programs, QDWI is administered by your state's Medicaid agency. To apply, contact your local county or state Medicaid office. You will need:
- Proof of disability determination from the Social Security Administration
- Current proof of earned income (recent pay stubs or W-2)
- Recent bank statements showing countable liquid assets
- Your red, white, and blue Medicare card
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Qualified Disabled Working Individual (QDWI) program pay?
The QDWI program pays only the Medicare Part A monthly premium (up to $518/month in 2026, or $285/month for individuals with 30-39 work credits). It does not pay Part B premiums, deductibles, or copays.
Who qualifies for the QDWI program?
You may qualify if you are under 65 with a disabling impairment, lost premium-free Part A after returning to work above substantial gainful activity limits, are not eligible for full Medicaid, and meet the 200% FPL income limits and asset tests.
What are the 2026 income and asset limits for QDWI?
In 2026, the federal limits are $2,510/month for individuals and $3,407/month for married couples. The resource limit is $4,000 for individuals and $6,000 for married couples. Your home and one car are exempt.
How does QDWI differ from QMB, SLMB, and QI?
Unlike QMB, SLMB, and QI—which pay Medicare Part B premiums and cost-sharing—QDWI specifically pays the Part A premium for working disabled beneficiaries who lost free Part A. It has higher income limits (200% FPL) but lower asset limits ($4,000 single vs $9,950 for standard MSPs).
Wondering if you qualify for QMB, SLMB, or QI instead?
If your earnings are lower, QMB or SLMB can cover your Part B premiums and out-of-pocket costs.