• You're entitled to Medicare Part A. If you do not have Part A or if you are not sure, call Social Security toll free (800) 772-1213 to find out how you can get it.
• Your financial resources such as bank accounts and investments are not more than $4,000 for an individual or $6,000 for a couple. The home you live in, one vehicle, burial plots, home furnishings, personal jewelry, and life insurance usually do not count.
• Your monthly income is at or below a certain level. Income includes Social Security benefits, pensions, and wages, as well as interest payments and dividends on stocks and bonds you own. The amount you qualify for depends on your monthly income.

If you think you qualify, contact your state, county, or local medical assistance office. When you call, ask for information on programs that help pay for your Medicare Part B premium or ask how you can get help paying for some of your Medicare expenses. These programs are not automatic, so you must apply. Ask for an application and what documents you will need.

*All states except Alaska and Hawaii, which are slightly higher

Source: Health Care Financing Administration, "Medicare Savings For Qualified Beneficiaries," www.hcfa.gov/medicaid/obs4.html.