Medicaid for Seniors and People with Disabilities

There are two types of Medicaid for seniors and people with disabilities: Aged and Disabled (AD) Care Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Program.

AD Care Medicaid is full Medicaid coverage. Some people qualify for both Medicare and AD Care Medicaid, which adds dental and vision coverage and can reduce out-of-pocket costs for Medicare.

The Medicare Savings Program covers certain Medicare costs.

Who is eligible for AD Care Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Program?

Many people become eligible for Medicare after their 65th birthday. A person with a disability becomes eligible for Medicare two years after their determined disabled date.

AD Care Medicaid covers all medically necessary services plus dental and vision services for people whose immigration status disqualifies them from Medicare.

AD Care Medicaid also covers people whose monthly income limit is 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and assets are below $1,255/single or $1,703/married. View the income qualifications here.

The Medicare Savings Program covers people whose monthly income is up to 135% of the Federal Poverty Level and assets are below $1,715/single or $2,320/married. View the income qualifications here.

What services do AD Care Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Program cover?

AD Care Medicaid adds dental and vision coverage for people who are enrolled in Medicare. It also covers co-pays, deductibles, and premiums.

The Medicare Savings Program pays the Part B premium and if your income and assets are very low the program will also cover deductibles, co-insurance, co-pays and additional services.

How much do AD Care Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Program cost?

There are no costs for this type of Medicaid. It helps with Medicare costs and is secondary insurance to your Medicare.

How do I get AD Care Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Program?

The first step is to apply for Medicaid. (If you are approved, you should then enroll in Medicaid.)

To apply, you must be enrolled in Medicare or have a Medicare start date. You can also apply if you are a senior with an immigration status that does not qualify you for Medicare.

Apply for Medicaid online through MIBridges, complete a paper application, or call to apply over the phone at 855-789-5610. When you complete the application, MDHHS will need verification of your Medicare enrollment or start date.

The Washtenaw Health Project can help with your application. Make an appointment by calling 734-544-3030 or emailing us at whp@washtenaw.org.

Within 10 days of receiving your application, MDHHS will send a Health Care Coverage Supplemental Questionnaire (HCSQ DHS-1004). Complete the form and provide proof of income and assets. Once MDHHS receives the completed form, they complete a 5-day asset detection process, and then you’ll receive a determination notice that confirms your enrollment.

After you enroll, you will want to discuss your Medicare Advantage, supplement and dual-eligible options with a Medicare Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) counselor. MMAP counselors are trained by the state and do not work for any insurance company. Learn more at mmapinc.org or call 800-803-7174.

Do I have to renew AD Care Medicaid and the Medicare Savings Program?

Yes, Medicaid is renewed every 12 months. For example, if you were approved in March, you will receive a renewal packet the following March.

MDHHS mails a Medicaid Redetermination (sometimes called a renewal form) or sends a MIBridges notification by text message. The form will ask for proof of your income and assets. You also need to confirm that your household members have stayed the same.

MDHHS automatically renews benefits for people whose eligibility can be verified. If you are automatically renewed, you’ll get a confirmation letter.

Washtenaw Health Project can help you with Medicaid!