Applying for Medicaid
Medicaid is the government’s way of helping low-income individuals and families, the elderly, disabled and pregnant women with limited earnings and financial resources get the assistance they need. This form of health insurance lends a hand to those who cannot afford health care by paying all or a portion of their medical expenses. When it comes to applying for Medicaid no two states are alike. Generally, if you are deemed eligible for assistance, payments are sent directly to the appropriate health care provider. Some states, however, may require Medicaid recipients to make a co-payment for certain services.
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Things You'll Need
- Birth certificate
- Proof of residence
- Statement of earnings
- Medical bills
- Bank statements
- Vehicle registration
Instructions
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Determine your eligibility before applying for Medicaid. Generally, you are eligible if you are a married or single pregnant woman; over 65, blind or otherwise disabled; getting off of welfare and still needing medical coverage; legally responsible for a minor (anyone under the age of 18) and your financial resources are limited; or you are the recipient of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from the Social Security Administration.
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Visit the Medicaid website of your particular state for resources and assistance in filing your Medicaid application. This is particularly important since Medicaid application procedures and eligibility requirements differ from state to state. Links for each state can be found at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ homepage.
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Phone your state’s Medicaid office to see if you can apply for Medicaid online or via the telephone, or if it needs to be done in person.
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Review the Medicaid application before filling it out. Take your time and answer each question honestly. Medicaid fraud carries serious consequences.
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Be prepared with all the necessary documentation. This includes copies of your birth certificate, Social Security card; driver’s license and vehicle registration; statement of earnings, such as pay stubs or tax returns; proof of residence; any bank account information (checking and savings); statement of property ownership; any outstanding medical bills and your Medicare benefit card (if you also are on Medicare).
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Make an appointment with a Medicaid representative or qualified social worker to review your circumstances if you are uncertain about your Medicaid eligibility.
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Seek the advice of an elder law attorney if you are applying for Medicaid for you or a relative to enter a nursing home.
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Tips & Warnings
You don’t need to complete your Medicaid application on the premises. Take it home so you can be sure your responses are accurate.
