Medicare Savings Programs & Extra Help in California
2026 Medicare Savings Program limits in California
| Program | Pays for | Single / mo | Married / mo |
|---|---|---|---|
| QMB | Part B premium + deductibles & copays | $1,350 | $1,824 |
| SLMB | Part B premium | $1,616 | $2,184 |
| QI | Part B premium | $1,816 | $2,455 |
California uses a high asset limit in 2026: $130,000 (single) / $195,000 (couple).
Extra Help in California
Extra Help (the Part D Low-Income Subsidy) lowers prescription costs to a $0 premium and $0 deductible, worth about $5,700 a year. 2026 income limits are about $23,940 (single) / $32,460 (married), with savings under $18,090 / $36,100. Joining any Savings Program above qualifies you for Extra Help automatically.
How to apply in California
Extra Help: free with Social Security at ssa.gov/extrahelp or 1-800-772-1213. Medicare Savings Programs: through California's Medicaid office.
Free local help: California HICAP offers free, unbiased Medicare counseling at 1-800-434-0222 (in-state), or call 1-800-MEDICARE from out of state.
Check your California eligibility, free
Frequently asked questions
What are the Medicare Savings Program income limits in California for 2026?
In California for 2026, QMB is about $1,350/mo (single), SLMB $1,616, and QI $1,816. The asset limit is $9,950 single / $14,910 married.
Does California have an asset test for Medicare Savings Programs?
California uses a high $130,000 single / $195,000 couple limit in 2026.
Where can I get free help with Medicare in California?
California's SHIP (California HICAP) gives free, unbiased Medicare counseling at 1-800-434-0222 (in-state), or 1-800-MEDICARE from out of state. You can also apply for the Medicare Savings Programs through California's Medicaid office, and for Extra Help free through Social Security.
Sources: Medicare.gov, SSA POMS HI 00815.023, CMS (2026). Estimates, verify with SSA and California Medicaid. MediNav is not the government.