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(MRG) UPDATED: JANUARY 2009 49 CATEGORICAL FACTORS MEDICAID BUY-IN PROGRAM FOR WORKING PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES If the gross earnings are less than SGA, the individual is encouraged to participate in the MBI-WPD program, or the Medicaid Aid to the Disabled program, whichever is most beneficial. Extended Period of Eligibility A/Rs who have lost SSDI benefits due to substantial work, following a nine-month trial work period, and who are entitled to a 36-month extended period of eligibility (EPE), may be enrolled in the MBI-WPD Basic Coverage Group for the duration of the EPE. IF all other eligibility requirements for the program are met a new disability determination is not necessary. Approximately 2-3 months prior to the end of the EPE, appropriate medical evidence must be obtained and submitted with a complete disability packet to the SDRT for a Continuing Disability Review (CDR). Documentation of the diagnosis(es) for which the applicant was determined disabled by SSA must be obtained in order for the CDR to be performed. Trial Work Period and Transition to MBI-WPD A/Rs in the Aid to the Disabled category of Medicaid may be granted a Trial Work Period (See CATEGORICAL FACTORS TRIAL WORK PERIOD) of up to 9 months to determine if the A/R can develop a consistent pattern of work. In such instances, care must be taken to transition the recipient to the MBI-WPD program before the Trial Work Period ends or the disability certificate expires. Subsequent Continuing Disability Reviews (CDRs) for these individuals must be performed by the State Disability Review Team (SDRT). SSI 1619 (b) Program and Transition to MBI-WPD An A/R who has lost eligibility for 1619 (b) due to excess income and/or resources may be enrolled in the MBI-WPD Basic Coverage Group without a disability determination if the SSI medical diary date has not yet expired and all other eligibility requirements are met. Approximately 2-3 months prior to the medical diary date, appropriate medical evidence from providers must be obtained and submitted to the SDRT for a CDR. Documentation of the diagnosis(es) for which the applicant was determined disabled by SSA must be obtained in order for a CDR to be performed.