Change in Basis of Eligibility (Archive)

When you become aware of a change in circumstances for a Medical Assistance (MA) enrollee, evaluate the effect of the change on the enrollee's basis of eligibility (or major program). If you need to re-determine the basis (or program), leave MA open while the re-determination is in process as long as the enrollee is cooperating in providing necessary information.

Depending on the change, a new application may or may not be required; see Application Required and Application Not Required. The budget period for the household may continue, or it may need to be interrupted; see Certification Period.

Some of the changes that may affect basis of eligibility or major program include:

Change in Age.

Change in Disability or Blindness Status.

Change in Household Composition.

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Change in Age

There are a number of changes to eligibility that may result from a change in age.

l  When a person turns 65, determine MA eligibility beginning with the month of the 65th birthday.

n  Approve MA effective the first of the month in which the person turns 65 if all eligibility factors are met.

n  Do not require a new application.

l  When MA enrollees turn 21, determine if they have another MA basis.

l  When the only child of a parent receiving MA with a parent/caretaker basis turns 18, determine if the parent continues to meet an MA basis. Eligibility for a parent/caretaker basis continues if the child still meets the definition of a dependent child . If there is not a continued parent/caretaker basis, determine if the parent meets another MA basis.

l  When a disabled child turns 18, do not deem the parent’s income beginning the month after the 18th birthday.

Note:  Parents of TEFRA children may be liable for parental fees through the month of the child's 18th birthday.

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Change in Disability or Blindness Status

When people receiving MA with a families with children basis of eligibility are certified blind or disabled, they may have multiple bases of eligibility from which to choose.

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Change in Household Composition

When the only child of a parent who receives MA with a parent/caretaker basis leaves the household and the absence is not temporary, determine if the parent meets another MA basis.

When a child moves in with a parent or eligible relative caretaker, determine if the parent meets a parent/caretaker basis for MA. Give the parent an opportunity to apply for MA. Allow at least 10 days for the parent to return the application.

Note:  If the child is open on MA, the parent or relative caretaker can be added to the child’s case without requiring an application.

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