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Michigan’s New Medicaid Program for Working Individuals with Disabilities. The “Freedom to work for individuals with disabilities law” enacted as Public Act 32 of 2003 R equires that a Medicaid program for working individuals with disabilities be established by January 1, 2004.
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Michigan’sNew Medicaid Program for Working Individuals with Disabilities
The “Freedom to work for individuals with disabilities law” enacted as Public Act 32 of 2003 • Requires that a Medicaid program for working individuals with disabilities be established by January 1, 2004.
Fruits of Collaboration • An example of what collaboration can achieve • Department of Community Health Department of Human Services Department of Labor and Economic Growth –Michigan Rehabilitation Services Social Security Administration MiJob Coalition
Eligibility Factors • US citizen/qualified alien, Michigan resident, SS#, non-institutional, etc. • Disability determined by Social Security • Aged 16 through 64 • Eligible for Medicaid without spend down • Employed or self-employed • Net UNEARNED countable income <100% Federal Poverty Guideline
On Freedom To Work Medicaid • Asset (resource) limit of $75,000 with standard exclusions (house, car) • No limit on retirement accounts recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) • No EARNED income limit • May pay a premium on a sliding scale based on earned income • Keep net UNEARNED countable income limit <100% Federal Poverty Guideline
Current Medicaid Services • An individual enrolling in the Freedom to Work program will keep or obtain current Medicaid services. • Current services do not include personal assistance services in the workplace.
Monthly Premiums in 2005 • Premium payable on gross earnings above $3,995 a month (more if have allowable Impairment Related Work Expenses) • Premiums start at $50 a month • Maximum premium for gross earnings over $6,250 a month: based on annual Medicaid cost of care
What happens if you stop working? • If you stop working because of medical necessity or involuntarily layoff, Medicaid services will continue for up to 24 months for each instance.
How to Apply • Apply to the Department of Human Services (formerly FIA) and ask for the Freedom to Work Medicaid program described in PEM 174.
Before Enrolling • Talk with a Benefits Planning Assistance and Outreach specialist • The BPA&O specialist will help you understand how working relates to your cash, medical, housing, food stamps or other benefits • Working usually leads to more income and greater independence
For more info • Contact your local Department of Human Services office and ask about Freedom to Work Medicaid and PEM 174 • Call Michigan Protection and Advocacy Services, Inc. at 1-800-288-5923 for referral to a BPA&O specialist in your area • Visit this web site: www.freedomtoworkmedicaid.com