Lieutenant Governor Rodgers and the Office of the Health Care Advocate (HCA) are sharing an affordability win for Vermonters on Medicare.
Due to action in recent budget bills, beginning January 1, 2026, more Vermonters on Medicare will qualify for help paying for health insurance premiums and cost-sharing.
Because of this policy change, an estimated 14,322 additional Vermonters will become newly eligible for Medicare Savings Programs—allowing each of them to keep $2,435 more per year in their pockets and enjoy additional cost-saving benefits.
You can learn more about Medicare Savings Programs here.
More Vermonters on Medicare can now get help paying for premiums and other out-of-pocket health care costs. Income limits for Medicare Savings Programs have increased, so more people may qualify — even if you’re working. If you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, you also automatically qualify for a free federal prescription drug program. This can lower your Medicare Part D premium and reduce prescription co-pays.
The 2026 maximum income level for Medicare Savings Programs:
- $2,685 per month for individuals
- $3,645 per month for couples
If you have questions about your options, contact the Office of the Health Care Advocate for free, confidential help at 1-800-917-7787.
The Office of the Health Care Advocate is a project of Vermont Legal Aid (www.vtlegalaid.org) and helps any Vermonter with health care issues.
Learn more here:
https://vtlawhelp.org/medicare-savings-buy-programs