Medicaid Eligibility Criteria Today

Since the Federal government has never clearly dictated specific Medicaid eligibility criteria for the Medicaid program, every state now has their own policy for determining who qualifies for coverage. This is why there is no consistency in rules and procedures from one state to another today.

Yet, there are some general guidelines set for the states by the Federal authority. They specify rules that identify groups of people who have to automatically be covered by Medicaid if they apply. How each state sees and implements these guidelines will ultimately determine which applicants they accept or deny.

If you can prove that your income puts you within 133% of the current poverty level for the nation, you will automatically be approved under the Federal guidelines. Also, if you are receiving any type of income assistance from the Federal authority you are within the guidelines for guaranteed Medicaid coverage as well.

There are many other guidelines that have been set by the Federal government to ensure that particular groups of people are covered no matter which state they live in. If you want to find out if you are within any of these groups, it is best to contact your state's Medicaid or social services office.

If for some reason you are told that you do not qualify for Medicaid right now, make sure to ask about alternative programs that may still give you the help you really need. Most states have their own assistance programs which will help anyone who is struggling but does not meet the current requirements for Medicaid.

You will have to see your state's agency directly, since every state now has their own policy and routine for getting people into the system. In most cases, if you qualify under the current Medicaid eligibility guidelines, you will also qualify for other types of help. Often, Medicaid benefits are given along with food stamps, housing assistance, or other types of help for basic every day needs.