How Do I Apply for Medicaid in Indiana?

Medicaid is a federally and state-funded, state-operated health insurance program for certain low-income individuals, including the elderly, disabled, pregnant women and children. In the state of Indiana, the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA)'s Division of Family Resources (DFR) manages the state's Medicaid program. Contact 800-457-8283 for more information regarding Medicaid eligibility requirements, covered services, programs and other inquiries.

Instructions

• 1

  Go to FSSA's "Apply For or Manage Benefits" website and select your county (see resources). You will be given a series of options, including a screening tool, to help decide what Medicaid program for which you are eligible, if any.

• 2

  Review the "Application for Assistance" and and obtain copies of all necessary documents listed on the application under "Information and Verification" (see resources). Documents you will need include record of Social Security number, age, place of birth, marriage certificate if married, insurance policies, bank statements and documentation of other assets, registration for any vehicles and proof of income.

• 3

  Fill out the "Application for Assistance" and submit it to your local DFR office with the documents listed in Step 2. You will need to put the full name, date of birth and Social Security number of all household members, including yourself. Check the "health coverage" box for all household members that are applying for Medicaid. You should receive a letter and/or phone call with an initial appointment time to meet with a DFR caseworker.

• 4

  Attend the initial appointment. You will be required to answer questions regarding your residence, income, expenses and medical conditions. You should bring a list of all of your medical providers including their address and phone numbers, any prescription drugs you are prescribed and any medical diagnoses. You will receive a letter within 90 days of this appointment stating whether you have been approved for Medicaid. If you were denied benefits, continue to Step 5.

• 5

  Write a letter requesting an appeal of your Medicaid denial and submit it to your local DFR office within 10 days of the date listed on the denial letter. You will receive a notice in the mail after you submit the letter with the date of your appeal hearing with an administrative law judge (ALJ).

• 6

  Review the reason for denial and gather supporting documentation to strengthen your case. For example, if your Medicaid for the disabled application was denied due to DFR determining that you are not disabled, you should gather additional medical records, documentation from former employers or schools stating how your disability affects your ability to work and any other supporting documentation.

• 7

  Attend the hearing with the ALJ. This hearing will consist of you, the ALJ and at least one DFR employee. You will be asked a series of questions related to your Medicaid case. You will receive a notice within 45 to 90 days after the hearing stating whether or not your Medicaid application was approved. If it was denied, continue to Step 8.

• 8

  Consult with an attorney that specializes in disability cases. For the final appeal, you will have to file a civil case in court against DFR. It is recommended that you have legal representation during this hearing. No new information may be submitted for this hearing. However, you will be allowed to provide testimony.