What is the Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals Program?
The Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals (QDWI) Program is one of four Medicare Savings Programs. These programs assist individuals who have low income or resources with the costs of Medicare. Medicare Savings Programs are run through each state’s Medicaid program.
Who is Eligible for the Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals Program?
If you previously received Social Security disability benefits and Medicare coverage because of disability, but lost that coverage because you returned to work, you may be eligible for the Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals Program.
The QDWI Program also has income and resource limits for eligibility; if you are somewhere in the range of a $4000-6000 (or less) monthly income as an individual or couple, you may qualify for QDWI benefits. The exact amount may change each year or vary based on your state of residence. Resource limits apply to the monetary value of things like savings accounts, stocks, investment properties, and more.
If you are soon turning 65, you may be eligible for Medicare coverage based on age instead of disability, which could significantly change your costs.
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What is Covered by the Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals Program?
The Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals Program covers Medicare Part A premiums.
QDWI Example Scenario
You have recently returned to work and lost your Social Security disability benefits and premium-free Medicare Part A. With the QDWI Program:
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You are able to enroll or stay enrolled in Medicare Part A without paying a premium
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You will continue to pay a Medicare Part B premium, if enrolled
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You will continue to pay premiums for Part D or Part C plans, if enrolled
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You will continue to pay deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments
How Do I Enroll in the Qualified Disabled & Working Individuals Program?
Contact your state’s Medicaid offices. It’s worth applying for the program even if you’re not sure whether you qualify. Due to differences in eligibility by state—based on your income, savings, properties, and your working situation—calculating your own eligibility can be difficult.
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Enrollment Eligibility
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP)
Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs each year from October 15 to December 7. What is the Annual Enrollment Period vs. Open Enrollment Period?
Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
Your Initial Enrollment Period generally surrounds your 65th birthday but may occur if you otherwise become eligible for Medicare for the first time.
Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
You may be eligible if you experience a qualifying life event such as moving to a new zip code, losing employer coverage, or change in Medicaid status.
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