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 are examined to determine whether a disabled individual qualifies for Medicaid.
Some states offer buy-in options allowing disabled people with incomes not qualifying them for Medicaid to enroll in the program.
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.
Contrary to what many people believe, poverty alone does not qualify anyone for Medicaid. To be eligible, you generally have to fall within a Medicaid eligibility group category. The key eligibility categories 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.
The elderly should be aware that reducing assets by “gifting” is likely to be factored into any Medicaid eligibility decisions. The amount of any gifts or transfers for less than market value during the five years prior to your applying for Medicaid are likely to be considered when your assets are added up to determine eligibility.
The value of your home is not considered in determining eligibility for Medicaid, so home ownership does not reduce your chance of receiving Medicaid coverage.
Dual Eligibility
Some people are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. In such cases, Medicare is the primary payer. Click here for information about how payment works for people with more than one insurer.
If you are a Medicare dual eligible individual, 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’s Home Page. 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