The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) is urging income-eligible Medicare beneficiaries in New York to apply for up to $7,300 annually in financial assistance through an expansion in the Medicare Savings Program (MSP).
Medicare beneficiaries in New York are encouraged to apply now that the newly expanded MSP eligibility income limits are official, based on updates to the federal poverty levels. The 2023 income eligibility limits are $2,280 for an individual and $3,077 for a couple. An application is available on the New York State Department of Health website, https://www.health.ny.gov/forms/doh-4328.pdf.
New York State Department of Health Acting Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “The expanded Medicare Savings Program is an outstanding resource older adults can use to cover everyday expenses, such as food and housing. I encourage eligible New Yorkers to take advantage of this vital benefit that enables them to afford the necessities and needed health care without having to choose one over the other.”
The MSP helps older adults and people with disabilities living on limited incomes by paying their Medicare Part B premiums and automatically enrolls them in Extra Help. This financial assistance can be a lifeline for enrollees, allowing them to maintain their Medicare coverage, access needed care, and afford other necessities. The newly expanded program is estimated to save beneficiaries an average of up to $7,300 annually.
Applicants who are approved for the program will receive reimbursement through their Social Security check. To apply, applicants will need photocopies of their Medicare card, proof of income, documentation about health insurance premiums other than Medicare, proof of date of birth and residence.
Application assistance is also available in every county through the statewide Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP), which is administered by the New York State Office for the Aging. This program offers free and objective counseling for Medicare beneficiaries needing assistance applying for the Medicare Savings Program or any other Medicare-related questions. Call HIICAP at 1-800-701-0501. Callers will be routed to their local program for assistance.
Even if your income is just above the posted limits ($2,280 for an individual and $3,077 for a couple), beneficiaries should still consider reaching out to New York HIICAP for assistance in the application process, as you may be paying for out-of-pocket costs that can be deducted from your gross income to make you eligible.
NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen recently held a social media livestream with Medicare Rights Center President Fred Riccardi and Heather Leddick of New York HIICAP to discuss the MSP and answer questions from the public about it. An archive of the program is available on NYSOFA’s Facebook page at https://fb.watch/kjysU-27Zf/.
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