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E. Earned Income Exclusion

(Does not apply to STEP II in LTC Budgeting)

1. Subtract the $65.00 Earned Income Exclusion.

2. If applicable, deduct:

a. Impairment-Related Work Expenses (IRWE) for the disabled if applicable. (Refer to IX.G. below.) or

3. Subtract 1/2 of the remainder

4. If applicable, deduct;

b. Work Expenses for the blind. (Refer to IX. below.)

5. Allow only one earned income exclusion from total earned income when both spouses are applicants/beneficiaries or income is deemed.

NOTE: Be sure to apply the impairment related work expense deduction (IRWE) or work expenses for the bind deduction to HCWD if applicable. See MA-2250, Income.

F. Work Expense Exclusion for the Blind

1. Exclude the monthly earned income of a blind person which is used to meet any expenses attributable to earning the income if the blind a/b is:

Under age 65, or

a. Age 65 or older and received SSI and/or Medicaid in the month prior to attaining age 65, and

b. Meets the SSI definition of blindness.