Medicare Savings Programs in Oregon: 2026 income limits and how to apply

Who qualifies

You must have Medicare Part A and live in Oregon. Then your monthly income must be under the limit for one of the programs. ODHS updates the limits each March. The limits below are in effect from March 2026 through February 2027.

These are the federal limits, at 100%, 120% and 135% of the federal poverty level. The ODHS chart shows each limit $20 lower. That is because the chart has already taken off the first $20 of income, which is not counted. If your gross income is right at the federal figure, you can still qualify.

Assets: None. ODHS says: "There are no asset limits for these programs in Oregon." In most states, savings over about $9,950 for one person would keep you out. In Oregon they do not.

What counts as income

ODHS looks at your monthly income, such as Social Security, pensions and wages. The first $20 a month is not counted, which is why the ODHS chart is lower than the federal figures in the table.

Because there is no asset test, your savings, investments and property do not affect whether you qualify for these programs. Your income is what matters.

Each program explained

QMB (Qualified Medicare Beneficiary)

QMB is the most complete help. It pays your Part A premium (if you have one), your Part B premium, and the deductibles and coinsurance for services Medicare covers.

SLMB (Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary)

SLMB pays your Part B premium of $202.90 a month. That money stays in your Social Security check.

SMF (Qualifying Individual)

SMF also pays your Part B premium. It is for people with income a little above the SLMB limit. Oregon gets a set amount of federal money for SMF each year. When that runs out, ODHS must close enrollment. You cannot get SMF if you qualify for another Oregon Medicaid benefit.

QDWI (for people under 65 who work)

QDWI pays only the Part A premium. It is for disabled workers who lost Social Security disability benefits because they went back to work. Most people in that situation in Oregon use the Employed Persons with Disabilities program instead.

Extra Help comes with it

If you get any of these programs, you also get Extra Help with Part D drug costs automatically. You do not need a separate application.

How to apply

1. Online: apply at one.oregon.gov (also reached through benefits.oregon.gov).
2. By phone: call the ONE Customer Service Center at 800-699-9075, or the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 855-673-2372.
3. On paper: call 800-699-9075 and ask for a paper application to be mailed to you.
4. In person: go to your local ODHS or Aging and People with Disabilities office.

What to have ready: your Medicare card and proof of income for you and your spouse, such as a Social Security award letter or pension statement. Ask ODHS what else it needs for your case.

How long it takes: ODHS says you will hear whether you are approved within 45 days of the date you apply.

When it starts:

• QMB starts on the first day of the month after ODHS decides you qualify and has your proof.
• SLMB and SMF start on the first day of the month you meet all the rules and ODHS has your proof. If your application came from Social Security through an Extra Help application, coverage can start from the month Social Security got that application.

After you are approved

• Keep your contact details current with ODHS so you get any letters about renewing your benefits, and answer them by the date given.
• Report changes in income, address or household to ODHS. Call 800-699-9075.
• Appeals: If you are denied or your help is cut, Oregon rule OAR 461-025-0310 gives you 90 days from the date you receive the notice to ask for a hearing on most medical assistance decisions. Use form DHS 443, or tell ODHS clearly, orally or in writing, that you want to appeal.

Common mistakes

• Not applying because of savings. Oregon does not count assets for these programs.
• Looking only at the ODHS chart. The chart already subtracts $20. Take that amount off your income before you compare.
• Waiting on SMF. Enrollment can close when the year's money runs out, so apply early in the year.

Free help

• SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance): free, unbiased Medicare counseling from ODHS. Call 800-722-4134 (TTY 711) or visit shiba.oregon.gov.
• ADRC of Oregon: 855-673-2372, for help applying.
• 211info: dial 211 for local help.

See Medicare Part B and all benefits in Oregon.

Phone numbers: Free help lines for Oregon agencies

Check what you may qualify for