1. QUALIFIED MEDICARE BENEFICIARY PROGRAM (QMB or "Quimby")

This program will pay the premiums, deductibles and co-insurance payments of the Medicare Program for older and disabled individuals who are financially eligible.  The current QMB eligibility caps for 2010 are: $922/month income and $8,100 in assets for an individual; and $1,234/month income and $12,900 in assets for a couple.  QMB-eligible beneficiaries must go to medical care providers who participate in the QMB Program.   In addition to the income and assets stated, an individual or couple may have a house, car, and a burial plan (with a value not to exceed $1,500) and still be eligible for the QMB Program.  Applications are made for the QMB Program through the local Departments of Social Services, using the special application for QMB/SLMB.