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UPDATED: JULY 2008

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INCOME

INCOME LEVELS

Description: Income levels are the amount of income a person or household can retain and still be eligible for Medicaid.

Policy: In determining eligibility for Medicaid, an A/R’s net available income is compared to the appropriate Medicaid level or standard. An A/R’s income may be compared to more than one income level or standard.

References: SSL Sect.

366

369-ee

Dept. Reg.

352 360-4.3 360-4.6 360-4.7(b)

GISs

08 MA/022

05 MA/013

04 MA/031

Interpretation: Generally, the amount of the income level or standard increases as the size of the household increases. Persons who are ADC-related, SSI-related, under age 21, pregnant, stepparents, and/or fathers of unborns with no children of their own in the household are allowed the Medically Needy income level, or the Medicaid Standard (and MBL Living Arrangement Chart as appropriate) whichever is most beneficial. In some instances (pregnant women and some children), the federal poverty levels are used.

Persons who are SCC-related and LIF are allowed the Medicaid Standard.

Pregnant women and children under age 19 are allowed the Medicaid expanded levels (federal poverty levels). Family Health Plus, Medicaid Buy-In Program for Working People with Disabilities, Medicare Savings Program and Family Planning Benefit Program A/Rs are allowed the applicable percentage of the federal poverty level.

Disposition: Net available income is compared to the appropriate income level to determine eligibility for Medicaid. For some persons, income in excess of the level is available to meet the cost of medical care and services as determined according to Department regulations. (See INCOME EXCESS)

(MRG)