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Missouri Medicaid Eligibility

Health care is essential to maintaining your health. Unfortunately, health care is expensive. For Missouri residents who cannot afford health insurance, the Medicaid program is available. Medicaid is a joint effort between the federal government and state to supply coverage for those in need. In addition to the income guidelines, you must meet other requirements.

  1. Citizenship

    • Under federal law, Medicaid is open to all citizens and certain legal immigrants that meet the financial and eligibility criteria. Medicaid applicants are required to show proof of citizenship. Most new legal immigrants are ineligible for Medicaid for their first five years in the U.S. Illegal immigrants, or those who are unable to supply proper documentation, are only allowed to receive emergency Medicaid. You will need to submit certified copies of your U.S. passport, birth certificate, government issued identification card or Certificate of Naturalization. For children under 16, school records are sufficient.

    Eligibile Groups

    • In Missouri, pregnant women, infants, children and young adults under 19 years of age, parents or caretakers of children, elderly, and disabled or blind individuals are eligible. If you are disabled, you must have verification from the Social Security Administration. SSI recipients are also eligible for Medicaid. The Medicaid program covers hospice and nursing home care, if needed.

    Income

    • You must meet income requirements to be eligible for Medicaid. Elderly and disabled or blind applicants are allowed to earn up to the maximum monthly amount of Supplemental Security Income. Pregnant women are limited to 133 percent of the federal poverty level. Families applying for infants and children up to age six can receive 133 percent of the federal poverty level as well. Children ages 6 to 18 are limited to 100 percent. Working individuals cannot exceed 42 percent of the federal poverty level, while non-working adults can only earn 22 percent. In 2011, the federal poverty level is $10,991 for a household of one. All sources of income, whether earned or unearned, are counted.

    Medically Needy

    • Individuals who exceed the income requirements may still be eligible for coverage. If you have a high amount of medical expenses, you may be considered medically needy. If your income falls below the income threshold after subtracting your monthly medical bills, you are eligible.

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