If you are a resident of Indiana and need medical assistance, you may be wondering if you are eligible for Medicaid. Here are the requirements you need to meet to qualify.
How is eligibility determined?
To be eligible for Indiana Medicaid, you must meet certain requirements. These include being a U.S. citizen or legal resident, not exceeding income requirements and having a qualifying medical condition.
The main factor of consideration is the amount of income and assets you have. The State’s Department of Health will consider all your income sources, including employment wages, stock dividends, IRA withdrawals, Social Security income, Social Security disability income, pension payments and alimony. According to elder law, all your income and assets should be at or below 138% of the federal poverty level to qualify.
It is important to note that eligibility for Medicaid also varies depending on the number of people in your household. For example, a family of four with an annual income of up to $66,250 before taxes is eligible for Medicaid coverage.
Applying for Medicaid
You should apply for Medicaid if you think you’re eligible. Applications can be submitted online at the official website of the State of Indiana, in person at any local county office or through the mail. The Department of Health will require you to provide some basic information about yourself and your household, including Social Security numbers for everyone in your home who is applying for benefits.
If approved for Medicaid, you will receive a card that you’ll use to access health care services. The card will have your name on it and list the providers who are part of your plan. You can use the provider directory to find a doctor or hospital near you.
If you are not sure if you are eligible for Medicaid, the best thing to do is apply. If you are slightly above the income limit and need support, you can find ways to restructure your assets to qualify, like establishing a revocable trust.