The individual must be eligible for Medicare Part A insurance, (even if not currently enrolled). The monthly income must be between 100% and 120% of the annual federal poverty level [between FPL and (FPL x 1.2)] . The federal poverty level is announced early each year. The income eligibility level for the Specified Medicare Beneficiary program changes to reflect that figure each April. * See our recent article for specific amounts for early 2010. Uses the Low Income Subsidy asset test of $6,000/individual and $9,000/couple, indexed each year according to the Consumer Price Index.