Page 3

BEM 174 3 of 4 FREEDOM TO WORK (FTW) BPB 2026-016 7-1-2026

BRIDGES ELIGIBILITY MANUAL STATE OF MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES

Income Eligibility Initial and Ongoing Eligibility Initial income eligibility exists when the individual’s countable income (earned and unearned) does not exceed 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Ongoing eligibility exists when the individual's unearned income does not exceed 250 percent of the FPL. Determine countable earned and unearned income according to SSI-related MA policies in BEM 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, and 530. Determine income deductions using BEM 540 (for children) or 541 (for adults). Unemployment compensation benefits are not count- able income for FTW. PREMIUM PAYMENT There are no premiums for individuals with MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) income less than 138 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). • A premium of 2.5 percent of their income will be charged for an individual with MAGI income between 138 percent of the FPL and $75,000 annually. • A premium of 100 percent of the average FTW participant cost will be assessed for an enrolled individual with MAGI income over $75,000. Bridges will automatically notify the premium coordinator when premiums for a FTW participant start/change/end. The premium coordinator has final determination over actual premium begin or amount change dates, as well as premium exclusions. Note: Nonpayment of premium is automatically sent to Bridges and mass update will close the Freedom to Work category. If the individual has questions regarding the premiums, you may direct them to call the Beneficiary Help Line 1-800-642-3195, TTY 1-866-501-5656. Note: An ex parte review (see glossary) is required before Medicaid closures when there is an actual or anticipated change, unless the change would result in closure due to ineligibility for all Medicaid. When possible, an ex parte review should begin at least 90 days before the anticipated change is expected to result in case