How Do I Get Medicaid?

Medicaid is a state- and federally-funded government health program for people with lower incomes, elderly people, people with disabilities, and some families with children. Each state administers its own Medicaid program, and recipients must be American citizens or legal permanent residents.

Although each state has its own eligibility requirements for Medicaid, some general guidelines apply. State-by-state income requirements vary, but by 2014 most adults under 65 with yearly individual incomes up to about $15,000 will qualify in every state.

Currently, people with disabilities qualify for Medicaid in every state. In some states, qualification for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits automatically qualifies an individual for Medicaid. In other states, income and assets other than the home are examined to determine whether a disabled individual qualifies for Medicaid.

Expansion of Medicaid in 2014 will help low income adults with disabilities not qualifying them for Supplemental Security Income and disabled persons whose income exceeds their states’ limits for Medicaid eligibility.

The key eligibility categories for Medicaid include the elderly, the physically disabled, the mentally disabled, severely disabled children, low income adults, and low income children. Although the “low income” categories seem to cover wide ground, it’s important to check into any further eligibility requirements particular to your state.

To learn more about Medicaid eligibility requirements and programs in your state, visit Medicaid Homepage and select your state in the State Profiles box on the right. You’ll be linked to your state’s Medicaid page, which can answer any questions and tell you how to apply for Medicaid coverage.

If you are a Medicare dual eligible individual (eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare), looking into Medicare Advantage Plans may be a wise move and a good investment. Call MedicareMall toll-free at (877) 413-1556 and we’ll be glad to help you determine whether Medicare Advantage is right for you.

For further information about Medicaid, visit Medicaid.gov.  If you’d like information about Medicare supplement plans, Medicare Advantage, or any other aspect of Medicare or senior health insurance, contact a licensed, bonded MedicareMall representative and let us lead you with confidence through the Medicare maze!

Medicare Advantage Plans Index