MassHealth Buy-In Application: How to Apply for Medicare Savings in Massachusetts

Filing for a Medicare Savings Program in Massachusetts is simpler than it used to be. Since the state eliminated the asset test in March 2024, the application only asks for identity, Medicare status, and income — no bank statements, no retirement account balances, no vehicle documentation.

Which Form to Use

Massachusetts offers two application paths depending on what your parent needs:

MHBI Form (Medicare Savings Programs Application) — the streamlined option for anyone applying only for MSP coverage (QMB, SLMB, or QI). Because there is no asset test, this form collects minimal information: personal details, Medicare claim number, and income sources. Use this form when your parent already has Medicare and just needs help paying premiums.

SACA-2 (Application for Health Coverage for Seniors) — the comprehensive form for anyone aged 65 or older who may qualify for multiple MassHealth programs, including full MassHealth Standard or long-term care services. If someone fills out the SACA-2 but only qualifies for MSP due to excess assets for full Medicaid, MassHealth automatically processes the application under the MSP's 100% asset disregard rules.

For most families, the MHBI form is the right choice. It is shorter, faster to process, and avoids triggering unnecessary verification requests.

Where to Submit

Applications go to the MassHealth Enrollment Center through any of these channels:

• Online: Complete the application through the MassHealth portal at mass.gov/masshealth. One important caveat — the portal times out if you pause mid-session, and all entered data is lost. Have everything ready before you start.
• Mail: Send the completed form to MassHealth Enrollment Center, Central Processing Unit, P.O. Box 290794, Charlestown, MA 02129-0214.
• Fax: (617) 887-8799. Keep the fax confirmation sheet — it serves as your proof of filing date.
• Phone: Call MassHealth Customer Service at 1-800-841-2900 (TTY: 1-800-497-4648) to complete an application over the phone.
• In person: Walk-in appointments at MassHealth Enrollment Centers in Charlestown, Quincy, Taunton, Worcester, and Springfield. Local Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) also have certified counselors who can help.

Documents You Need

Because the MSP application has no asset test, the paperwork is minimal:

• Medicare card or Medicare Beneficiary Identifier (MBI) number
• Social Security benefit statement — the most recent SSA-1099 or monthly benefit verification letter showing gross benefit amount before deductions
• Pension or annuity documentation — if your parent receives any pension income, bring the most recent statement showing the gross monthly amount
• Proof of Massachusetts residency — a utility bill, lease, or state-issued ID showing a Massachusetts address

If your parent earns wages, bring recent pay stubs. MassHealth applies a $65 earned income disregard plus a 50% reduction on the remainder, so earned income affects eligibility less than you might expect.

Filing on Someone Else's Behalf

If you are helping a parent, you need formal authorization. Two options:

Authorized Representative Designation (ARD) Form — a MassHealth-specific document your parent signs that allows you to file applications, submit verifications, speak with MassHealth staff, and receive official notices. Submit it alongside the MSP application.

Power of Attorney or guardianship — MassHealth recognizes valid legal POA documents and court-issued guardianship decrees. Submit a copy with the application. Note that Social Security representative payee status alone does not give you authority with MassHealth — you need the ARD form or a separate legal instrument.

What Happens After You Submit

MassHealth has a federal 45-day standard for processing non-disability applications. If 45 days pass without a decision, call MassHealth Customer Service, cite your filing date, and request a status escalation.

One common snag: MassHealth may send a Request for Information (RFI) asking for bank statements or asset documentation — even though MSP applications do not require it. If this happens, call MassHealth Customer Service and clarify that the application is MSP-only, which exempts it from asset verification. Write "MSP-ONLY APPLICATION" across the top of any paper submissions to reduce the chance of this happening.

For the full process from application through approval, premium refund tracking, and annual renewal — the Massachusetts Medicare Savings Programs Guide covers every step with worksheets and checklists for each stage.

See more Massachusetts guides →