• Home
  • /
  • Blog
  • /
  • How to reduce your Medicare premiums
November 27, 2021

State programs can save you money on your Medicare premiums.

State programs can save you money on your Medicare premiums.
You can get help from your state paying your Medicare premiums. In some cases, Medicare Savings Programs may also pay Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) and Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments if you meet certain conditions.

There are 4 kinds of Medicare Savings Programs:

  1. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB)
  2. Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB)
  3. Qualifying Individual (QI)
  4. Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals (QDWI)

If you qualify for a QMB, SLMB, or QI program, you automatically qualify to get Extra Help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage.

It’s important to call your State Medical Assistance (Medicaid) office or fill out an application if you think you could qualify for savings.

Where can I get more information?

  • Visit Medicare.gov to view or print Medicare publications and find helpful phone numbers and websites.
  • Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) and ask about getting help paying for your Medicare premiums. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
  • Call your State Medical Assistance (Medicaid) office. Visit Medicare.gov/contacts or call 1-800-MEDICARE to get their phone number. 

You have the right to get Medicare information in an accessible format, like large print, Braille, or audio. You also have the right to file a complaint if you feel you’ve been discriminated against. Visit Medicare.gov/about-us/accessibility-nondiscrimination-notice, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for more information. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

Medicare Advantage with Part B Premium Reduction

The Medicare Giveback Benefit is a Part B premium reduction offered by some Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans.

If you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan with this benefit, the plan carrier will pay some or all of your Part B monthly premium. The amount covered can range from 10 cents to the full Part B premium cost.

Be aware that this reduction amount is subject to change each year, so it could be that the reduction amount increases or decreases in subsequent years. I say this to make sure that you are aware you should choose a Medicare Advantage plan that really fits you in all the other ways.

To be eligible, you must:

  • Be enrolled Original Medicare (Parts A and B)
  • Pay your own Part B premium

You are not eligible if you receive Medicaid or any government assistance that helps you pay your Part B premium. Also, the Part B Giveback is restricted to certain states and counties. Plans may not be available in your area.

Deduct your Medicare Premiums from your Taxes

Deducting medical premiums from your tax return is allowed in certain circumstances and depends on the type of Medicare premium:

  • Medicare A — You can only include Medicare A premiums if both of these are true:
  • You voluntarily enrolled in Medicare A.
  • You aren’t covered under Social Security.
  • Medicare B — This is supplemental insurance, and you can include it.
  • Medicare Part D — This is voluntary insurance and it’s always includable.

You can deduct medical premiums for Medicare and your other medical expenses. To do so, these must be more than a certain percentage of your adjusted gross income (AGI).

Depending on your age and the tax year, this percentage is either:

  • 7.5% of your AGI
  • 10% of your AGI

Report medical expenses on Schedule A, and you must itemize to deduct them. The payroll tax for Medicare is never a medical expense.

Self-employed individuals may be able to deduct 100% of their premiums – check with your CPA or accountant for more information if you work for yourself or own your own company.

Pay Medicare Premiums with your HSA

Once enrolled in Medicare, an individual can no longer contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA).  However, a Medicare beneficiary can use HSA distributions to pay for qualified medical expenses, such as premiums for Part B, a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), a prescription drug plan (Part D), and long-term care insurance, and Medicare expenses, such as copayments and deductibles. 

But, while you can use HSA distributions to pay Medicare premiums, these funds cannot pay premiums for Medicare supplemental policies, also known as Medigap policies. 

Do you have questions about any of these ways to reduce Medicare premiums? Feel free to give us a call for guidance at 833-265-9655

Get Help

Compare Medicare coverage options with the help of one of our agents:

Talk to us: (833) 265-9655 

Exploring the Non-Medical Extra Benefits of Medicare Advantage Plans

When it comes to healthcare coverage for seniors, Medicare Advantage plans offer a comprehensive solution that goes beyond traditional Medicare plans. One of the key advantages of Medicare Advantage is the inclusion of non-medical benefits that cater to the overall well-being of beneficiaries. In this blog post, we will shine a light on the additional

Read More

Medicare and Dental Care

Medicare does not cover most dental services Medicare does not provide coverage for dental services primarily required for the maintenance of your teeth, such as routine checkups, cleanings, fillings, dentures (complete or partial/bridge), and most cases of tooth extractions (having your teeth pulled). Medicare does not cover dental services primarily needed for the health of

Read More

Resources if you need dental coverage

If you need help finding dental coverage, here are some options you can explore:Medicare Advantage Plans: Some provide routine dental coverage. Contact your plan for details on services, costs, and any restrictions. If you are considering joining a Medicare Advantage Plan, make sure the plan suits your other healthcare needs.Medicaid: In some states, Medicaid covers

Read More

Medicare Costs for 2025

In 2025, Medicare continues to be a vital resource for health coverage for millions of Americans. Understanding the costs associated with Medicare Parts A, B, and D is crucial for beneficiaries to effectively manage their healthcare expenses. Let’s delve into the key points regarding the Medicare costs for 2025 and discuss the premiums and deductibles

Read More

Navigating the Transition to Medicare: Preparing for Eligibility

As you approach the age of 65, transitioning to Medicare becomes an imminent reality. Understanding Medicare’s intricacies can ensure that you receive the benefits you’re entitled to without any unnecessary delays or penalties. If you’re approximately six months away from Medicare eligibility, it’s crucial to begin preparing now. Here’s what you need to know.Understanding Medicare

Read More

Medicare brokers such as Lehigh Partners get paid by the insurance companies they represent. And you pay exactly the same rate for your insurance if you use a Medicare consultant (broker). There is no extra fee or cost for enrolling through a broker. You will never pay a fee for our help.


Find a Plan

Shop for coverage online. Safe, Secure, & Confidential

Call us

Call Lehigh Partners at 1-833-265-9655

Licensed insurance agents are available to help you through enrollment and beyond.

Need Help?

Get in touch with a licensed sales agent now by filling out the form - no obligations!

Get Our FREE Medicare Checklist.

Download our complimentary Medicare checklist and conveniently access all the necessary information in one place, ensuring you never miss a crucial number, deadline, or date again.

Tags

Extra Help, Medicaid


Senior Medicare Advisors: Understanding the Role of Senior Healthcare Advisors

As the population ages, there is an increasing need for specialized healthcare services catered towards seniors. Medicare, a federal health insurance program primarily designed for individuals aged 65 and above, plays a crucial role in providing affordable healthcare coverage. However, navigating through the complexities of Medicare can be overwhelming for seniors. This is where Senior

Read More

Does Medicare Cover Wheelchair Ramps?

Medicare, as a federal health insurance program in the United States, provides coverage for various medical expenses. However, when it comes to durable medical equipment, such as wheelchair ramps, the coverage might not always be straightforward. This article will explore the extent to which Medicare covers wheelchair ramps, taking into account the necessary criteria, limitations,

Read More

How to Sign Up for Medicare Part A: Easy Instructions

Sign up for Medicare Part A with this step-by-step guide. Learn about eligibility, enrollment periods, and how to fill out the application. Ensure a seamless process to access essential healthcare benefits. Contact the Social Security Administration for further assistance. Medicare Part A provides coverage for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, and some home

Read More

How To Get The Best Medicare Supplement Rate

Find the best Medicare rate for enrolling in a Medicare Supplement Plan any time of the year. Don’t miss out! Unlock the Best Medigap Rate with Expert Guidance from Our Agents! TALK TO AN AGENT During the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), which brings Medicare to the forefront of thought for individuals of Medicare age,

Read More

Find a Medicare Office and Local Resources Near You

If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you have access to a variety of support resources both locally and online. The U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has regional offices with Medicare representatives who can provide education and answer your questions. Additionally, the Social Security Administration (SSA) local offices offer assistance with Medicare applications,

Read More

Medicare Part A Deductible and How It Works

Medicare Part A is a part of Original Medicare that primarily covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and home health care. As with most insurance plans, Medicare Part A has certain deductibles and copayments that beneficiaries are responsible for paying before Medicare coverage kicks in. In this article, we will focus

Read More

Ready to talk to an agent about your Medicare coverage?