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Medicaid Income Requirements for Mississippi

Mississippi Medicaid offers health care to uninsured and underinsured low-income children, families, pregnant women and aged or disabled individuals. Household size, the type of Medicaid program intended and individual eligibility determines income requirements. Mississippi uses the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to decide income eligibility. Medically needy individuals are encouraged to apply for benefits at their county Medicaid Regional Office.

  1. Adults and Families

    • Low-income adults with children may receive Medicaid if they meet Mississippi Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) standards. As of 2010, the TANF gross monthly income limit for a family of four is $819. Pregnant women are eligible for Mississippi Medicaid if their monthly income does not exceed 185 percent of the FPL. As of 2010, a family of four is at 185-percent of the FPL if their annual income is $40,792.50 or less.

    Children

    • Infants up to age one may be eligible if the household income does not exceed 185 percent of the FPL. Children up to the age of 6 receive Medicaid if the family income is at or below 133 percent of the FPL. Children up to the age of 19 may be eligible if the household income does not exceed 100 percent of the FPL. Alternatively, uninsured children up to the age of 19 ineligible for Medicaid, may receive health care under the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) if the family income does not exceed 200 percent of the FPL.

    Disabled and Aged Individuals

    • Disabled and aged individuals without Medicare may qualify for Medicaid under the Healthier MS Waiver program if their gross monthly income is below $1,269. Disabled adults working at least 40 hours per month may be eligible if their gross earned income does not exceed $4,579 per month. There are several levels of Medicaid available for Mississippi residents aged 65 and older. Most Medicaid programs for the aged are for individuals with a monthly income at or below $1,269, or $1,690 for couples. Medicaid is also applicable in conjunction with Medicare to cover excess medical costs or long-term care.

    Reporting Income

    • Some income is disregarded and deductions are made for childcare costs when determining Medicaid eligibility. However, income from all sources must be reported on a Medicaid application. Any changes to a household income must be reported within ten days including earnings, gifts, inheritances and settlements (see ref 3). Failure to fully disclose income or report changes may result in denial of benefits.

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