SPECIAL LOW INCOME MEDICARE BENEFICIARY PROGRAM (SLMB or “Slimby”)

This program will pay the Medicare Part B premium ($96.40 per month in 2008) for people whose incomes are slightly more than the QMB criteria. The 2008 SLMB I eligibility guidelines are: $868 - $1,040 monthly income and $4,000 in assets for an individual, and $1,168 - $1,400 income and $6,000 in assets for a couple. The 2008 SLMB II eligibility guidelines are: $1,041 - $1,170 monthly income and $4,000 in assets for an individual, and $1,401 - $1,575 income and $6,000 in assets for a couple. As with the QMB Program, an individual or couple may hold certain assets (house, car, burial fund, etc.) that may be exempt from consideration. Applications are made for SLMB Program through the local Departments of Social Services, using the standard Medical Assistance form.