I was told I need to apply for a QMB, how do I do that?

Q: I am currently on Medicaid and will be on Medicaid in a few weeks. I was told I need to apply for a QMB, how do I do that or am I still covered on Medicaid?

A) If you are currently on Medicaid and will be on Medicare in a few weeks, you may be eligible for a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) program. The QMB program helps pay for Medicare Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance for people with limited income and resources.

To apply for QMB, you can contact your state Medicaid office. You will need to provide information about your income, assets, and residency. If you are approved for QMB, you will receive a card that you can use to pay for Medicare-covered services.

You may also be eligible for other Medicare Savings Programs, such as Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) and Qualifying Individuals (QI-1). These programs can help pay for Medicare Part B premiums and other out-of-pocket costs.

To learn more about QMB and other Medicare Savings Programs, you can visit the Medicare website or contact your state Medicaid office.

Here are the steps on how to apply for QMB:

1. Contact your state Medicaid office. They will be able to help you determine if you are eligible for QMB and what documentation you need to provide.
2. Gather the required documentation. This may include your Social Security card, birth certificate, proof of income, and proof of residency.
3. Complete the QMB application. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at your local Medicaid office.
4. Submit the application and documentation to your state’s Medicaid office.
5. Wait for your application to be processed. This can take several weeks.
6. If you are approved for QMB, you will receive a QMB card. This card can be used to pay for Medicare-covered services.

Here are some additional tips for applying for QMB:

• Start the process as soon as possible. The application process can take several weeks, so it is best to start the process as soon as possible.
• Be prepared to provide documentation. The Medicaid office will need to see documentation of your income, assets, and residency in order to determine your eligibility for benefits.
• Be patient. The application process can be time-consuming, so be patient and be prepared to provide the necessary information.

I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.