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(b) Representative

A representative may assist the A/R in the application and redetermination process and in other matters related to the A/R’s MA eligibility. Only one designated representative at a time may be recognized as authorized to act on the A/R’s behalf. Designation of a representative is indicated in writing on the MA application form or a letter submitted to the Department or its designee.

An A/R who is at least 18 years old and mentally competent to provide information required by the Department is not required to have a representative, but may choose to designate a representative to provide assistance or act on the A/R’s behalf in matters related to MA eligibility. A pregnant woman of any age is not required to have a representative and may sign the application and attend the interview on her own behalf, even if she is younger than 18 years old. A child younger than 18 years old (unmarried and not pregnant), or an individual who is not mentally competent to provide required information. Must have a representative designated writing to act on the individuals’ behalf in matters related to MA eligibility. A representative may be one of the following individual who is at least 18 years old:

o An individual who is related to the A/R by birth or marriage; o The A/R’s legally recognized guardian or representative with power-of- attorney; o The caregiver with whom an A/R younger than 18 years old lives, if the child does not live with the child’s parent or other caregiver relative; o An individual designated by the A/R if the A/R is at least 18 years old; o A provider’s representative/hospital/institution o The A/R’s legal counsel o A governmental representative who is not involved with determining the A/R’s MA eligibility (e.g. social services social worker) o Anyone that can provide the required information o The representative must be 21 years of age to sign the application for someone under 21.

(c) Application Date

A written, signed application received by the LDSS/LHD (either by mail, fax, or in person) must be registered with an application date upon receipt. The LDSS/LHD must date stamp the application on the day it is received, even if the application is filed in a Maryland jurisdiction where the applicant does not live, as long as the applicant lives in another Maryland jurisdiction. There can be no delay in registering the application for any reason.

The application date is the date that the LDSS/LHD or other designated entity receives a MA application with appropriate signature on a form approved by DHMH. Mail in or faxed applications and signatures are accepted. Applicants may also apply online at www.marylandsail.org.