These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Find out what they have now
You can ask"Do you have Medicare Part A, Part B, or both? A drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan?"
You can ask"How much is your monthly income before anything is taken out? Do you also have Medicaid?"
Bring
- Medicare card, Social Security award letter or bank statement, list of medicines, and any plan letters
You can say"There are programs that pay Medicare premiums and lower drug costs. Many people qualify and never apply."
2Medicare Savings Programs: help with premiums
In 2026 the Part B premium is $202.90 a month. It usually comes out of the Social Security check. A Medicare Savings Program pays it, so the check goes up.
2026 monthly income limits (one person / couple):
QMB: about $1,350 / $1,824. Pays Part A and B premiums, deductibles and copays.
SLMB: about $1,616 / $2,184. Pays the Part B premium.
QI: about $1,816 / $2,455. Pays the Part B premium.
New Mexico has no savings (asset) limit for these programs.
Apply with the NM Health Care Authority: online at YES New Mexico (yes.state.nm.us), at the Income Support office, or by phone.
NM Health Care Authority - Medicaid
Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI)
800-283-4465
· Mon-Fri business hours
NM Health Care Authority - Income Support Division (Grant County office)
Medicaid (Turquoise Care)
1-800-283-4465
3088 32nd St Bypass, Suite A, Silver City · Lobby Mon-Fri 8:00 am-4:30 pm, closed 12:00-1:30 pm for lunch. Phone line (1-800-283-4465) Mon-Fri 7:00 am-6:30 pm.
3Extra Help: lower drug costs
Extra Help lowers drug plan premiums and copays.
People with a Medicare Savings Program, Medicaid or SSI get Extra Help automatically.
Others apply with Social Security. In 2026 the limits are about $1,995 a month for one person ($2,705 for a couple), and savings under about $18,090 ($36,100 for a couple). Their home and car do not count.
Social Security Administration
Medicare Extra Help (Part D low-income subsidy)
800-772-1213
· Weekdays
In 2026 no one pays more than $2,100 a year out of pocket for drugs their Part D plan covers.
Hidalgo Medical Servicesnot yet confirmed: call first
Medication Assistance Program
575-342-8900
1007 N. Pope St., Silver City · Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5:00 pm (closed 12-12:30)
At the Gospel MissionAsk staff about prescription help from the stuff drawer.
4Open enrollment: October 15 to December 7
Each year from October 15 to December 7, people can change drug plans or Medicare Advantage plans. Changes start January 1.
Plans change their costs and drug lists every year. Check that the plan still covers their medicines and doctors.
SHIP gives free, honest help comparing plans. They do not sell anything.
NM Aging and Long-Term Services Dept - SHIP
Free Medicare counseling (SHIP)
800-432-2080
2550 Cerrillos Rd, Santa Fe · Weekdays
NM Aging & Long-Term Services - Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
Senior and disability help line (Medicare/SHIP counseling)
800-432-2080
· Mon-Fri 7:45am-5pm
NM Aging and Long-Term Services Dept
Senior Medicare Patrol (fraud help)
800-432-2080
· Weekdays
5How the Mission can help
At the Gospel MissionThe case worker can help fill out the forms and gather proof of income.
Silver City Gospel Mission
Case worker: housing and benefits help
575-388-5071
111 S. Texas St., Silver City · Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:00am-1:00pm
At the Gospel MissionSeniors 55 and older can use the Senior Pantry.
More help like this
A senior (55+ or 60+) needs helpUse when an older guest (55 or older) needs food, help at home, Medicare help, or may not be safe.A senior or disabled adult is being neglected, abused or taken advantage ofUse when an older or disabled adult is being hurt, neglected, left without care, or someone is taking their money or property.An older person seems confused, lost or wanderingUse when an older adult seems lost or confused, can't say where they live, or is wandering outside alone, maybe because of dementia or a medical problem.Caring for an aging parent, or a senior who can't get outUse when an older person can't manage at home, can't get out, is alone, or their family caregiver needs help.Needs a wheelchair, walker or other medical equipmentUse when someone needs a wheelchair, walker, shower chair, hearing or communication device, or other equipment to live safely.Can't hear well, needs hearing aids, or is deafUse when someone has hearing loss, needs hearing aids or an amplified phone, or is deaf and needs an interpreter.
See all guides in Money and benefits →
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.