What Are the Qualifications to Receive Medicaid?

Medicaid is a government program that has been available since 1965. It is one of the Social Security amendments that were signed into legislation by President Lyndon B. Johnson. This program provides medical care for those who cannot afford to pay for it on their own. Medicaid is available only to certain low-income individuals and families who qualify based on federal and state eligibility laws. Under this act, the federal government has a basic set of eligibility requirements, but each state’s guidelines for eligibility differ, based on a set of criteria.

Income

• Only those considered low income will be considered for Medicaid eligibility. Each state’s income rules vary; however, there are basic rules that all require. The state’s department of public aid or department of human services will look at total monthly income, bank account statements and assets such as real property. All of these monetary items will be used to configure total monthly income. Those who meet minimum poverty levels are considered to receive services.

Eligibility Groups

• Many individuals and families who are U.S. citizens or legal residents can receive Medicaid services. Pregnant women, the disabled, medically needy individuals, and children and the elderly are among the list of those who may qualify. Under Medicaid laws, the state will offer medical coverage for these individuals. The state of residence will pay the medical provider directly for any medical services rendered. An individual will not receive a payment check from the Medicaid program.

Program Start and End Dates

• Once a state has accepted an individual or family for Medicaid, services start immediately. If the qualified individual or family can show that the need for services was previous to the date of acceptance, retroactive coverage for up to three months may be instituted. Medicaid coverage is offered on a monthly basis until the individual or family circumstances change.