Page 3

3

a. An applicant who is eligible for premium-free Part A, but does not enroll during his enrollment period, can enroll only during the months of January through March of each year.

b. Medicare Part A coverage is effective July 1st of the enrollment year.

2. If the applicant will be covered by Medicare Part A and Part B prior to the processing deadline, the case may be authorized effective with the month of Part A coverage.

D. Disposition

If the applicant is eligible, approve MQB-B. Use the DMA-5002 or the DMA-5002S, to notify the applicant/beneficiary (a/b).

E. Classification

The classification is “B”, even if dually eligible. F. Certification Period

1. The certification period begins with the month of application.

2. The certification period is 12 months.

G. Authorization

Authorize effective the month of application if all eligibility criteria are met.

For recertification, authorization begins the first month of the new certification period if all eligibility criteria are met.

H. Retroactive Period

Unlike MQB-Q coverage, coverage for Medicare Part B only (MQB-B) can be authorized retroactively for three months prior to the month of application. Always provide retroactive MQB-B coverage if the applicant meets eligibility criteria and is not already covered under MAABD.

Medical need is not an issue for MQB-B retroactive coverage. It is a requirement for MAABD.

I. Cost of Living Allowance (COLA)

1. Exclude the monthly amount of the RSDI COLA from countable income in determining eligibility for January, February, and March of each year. Use the prior December amount to determine eligibility for January through