The Three Kinds
- Dual Eligible SNP (D-SNP): for people who have Medicare and qualify for Medicaid. Plans coordinate both programs, usually include drug coverage, and often add extras such as dental, transportation, over-the-counter allowances and food or utility benefits. Costs are typically $0 or very low because Medicaid pays most cost sharing.
- Chronic Condition SNP (C-SNP): for people with specific chronic conditions — diabetes, heart failure, chronic lung disease, end-stage renal disease and others. Benefits and networks are built around the condition, and a doctor must confirm the diagnosis.
- Institutional SNP (I-SNP): for people who live in, or are expected to need the level of care of, a nursing facility.
Who Qualifies for a D-SNP
You qualify if you have Medicare Parts A and B and receive Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program (which pays your Part B premium). Eligibility levels differ by state, and many people with limited income qualify for a Medicare Savings Program without realizing it. We check this for you — it's often worth over $2,000 a year in Part B premiums alone.
Different Enrollment Rules
People with Medicaid or Extra Help have a Special Enrollment Period that allows more frequent changes than the standard calendar — including monthly windows to join a stand-alone Part D plan or an integrated D-SNP. If you lose Medicaid eligibility, you also have a window to choose other coverage. We confirm which windows apply to you before anything is submitted.
How We Help
We confirm your Medicaid level with your state, identify which D-SNPs in your county match it, verify that your doctors and medications are covered, and handle the enrollment and the yearly re-verification. We serve families in English, Portuguese, Spanish, German and Italian.
Common Questions
What is a D-SNP?
A Dual Eligible Special Needs Plan is a Medicare Advantage plan for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. It coordinates the two programs, generally includes Part D, and often adds dental, transportation, OTC and food benefits at little or no cost.
How do I know if I qualify for Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program?
Eligibility is based on income and, in most states, resources, and the limits vary by state. We screen you at no cost and help with the application. Many people qualify for a Medicare Savings Program that pays the Part B premium without qualifying for full Medicaid.
Can I switch out of a D-SNP later?
Yes. People with Medicaid or Extra Help have a Special Enrollment Period allowing more frequent changes than the standard windows, in addition to the Annual Enrollment Period.
