Medicare Savings Program FAQs

  • FAQs also available in Portable Document Format (PDF)
  1. What is the Medicare Savings Program (MSP)?
    • The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) is Medicaid-administered program that can assist people with limited income in paying their Medicare Premiums.
  2. Can you have EPIC and MSP together?
    • Yes, you can be enrolled in both programs.
    • When you enroll in an MSP, you will automatically get "Extra Help".
  3. What does "Extra Help" mean?
    • When you enroll in MSP, you will automatically qualify for "Extra Help". Extra Help can lower your monthly premiums, deductibles and copayments for prescription drugs.
  4. What is the eligibility for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP)?
    • There are two benefit levels. Each has a different income eligibility limit to qualify for MSP.
    1. Qualifying Individual (QI) - The 2025 monthly income levels for QI are $2,446 for single, and $3,299 for couples, with no asset limit.
    2. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) - The 2025 monthly income for QMB is $1,820 for single, and $2,453 for couples, with no asset limit.
  5. How can I apply for MSP?
    • EPIC members that are income eligible will receive an MSP letter or you can contact the New York State of Health at 1-855-355-5777 for more information or visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/individual .
  6. Do I have to complete and submit the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) application if I receive a letter from EPIC?
    • Yes, you are required to complete the MSP enrollment to maintain your EPIC coverage. To apply for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) please visit www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/individual. You will need to "Register Account" if you do not already have one.
  7. If I do not apply for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP), will my EPIC coverage be cancelled?
    • Yes, if you do not apply for the MSP within the allowed deadline, your EPIC coverage will be cancelled.
  8. Do I need to re-enroll into the EPIC program if my enrollment is cancelled?
    • Yes, you - will need to apply for the MSP before applying for EPIC. When submitting your EPIC application to reinstate your coverage, include proof that you applied for MSP.
  9. How long do I have to apply for the Medicare Savings Program (MSP)?
    • You have 30 days to apply for the MSP. If EPIC determines that you have not applied within 30 days, EPIC will send you a reminder letter to complete the enrollment within 45 days. If you do not apply for the MSP within 75 days, your EPIC coverage will be cancelled.
  10. Do I need to fully complete the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) enrollment?
    • Your enrollment will only be considered complete if all sections are filled out.
  11. If applied for MSP and am not eligible, will that impact my EPIC?
    • If you are not eligible for MSP, there will be no impact to your EPIC coverage.