What Utah program can help pay my Part B premium?
The short answer
The Utah Medicare Savings Program can help qualifying low-income residents pay their Medicare Part B premium and in some cases other Medicare costs. You apply through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.
The full explanation
Medicare Part B charges a monthly premium that most people pay out of pocket or have deducted from their Social Security check. For people with limited income and assets, the Utah Medicare Savings Program can cover some or all of that premium. There are different levels of the program, and the help you qualify for depends on your income and resources. Some levels pay only the Part B premium. Others also help with deductibles and cost-sharing. The income limits change each year and are not extremely restrictive, meaning people who think they would not qualify sometimes do. You apply through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, and if you are approved, it can free up real money each month. If you are also on Medicaid or close to qualifying, there may be additional programs that layer on top. It is worth a conversation with someone familiar with these programs before you assume you do not qualify.
Related Medicare Resources
In
Utah
specifically
The Utah Medicare Savings Program is administered through the Utah Department of Health and Human Services. Utah's Aging and Disability Resource Centers, known as ADRCs, serve as the state's SHIP program and can help people understand and apply for these benefits at no cost.
What this means for you
For you, this means if money is tight, it is worth checking whether you qualify for help with your Part B premium before you assume Medicare costs are fixed.
Related Questions
How do I apply for a Medicare Savings Program in Utah?
What income limits apply in Utah for Medicare financial help?
What are Medicare Savings Programs and what costs can they cover?
Can Utah Medicaid pay my Medicare premium?
Can I get help paying my Medicare premiums or other costs?
