Question

What is the primary qualification for receiving Medicaid benefits?

Answer 1

Medicaid is an American government health insurance program for people in need. President Lyndon B. Johnson established Medicaid, a part of the Social Security Act. Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) serves more than 31 million children.

Each State has a Medicaid program that provides medical coverage for people with low incomes, families and children, the elderly and people with disabilities. Most states provide coverage to adults with children who are at a certain low income level. In addition, as of 2014, most adults under 65 with individual incomes of up to approximately $ 15,000 a year will be eligible for Medicaid in all states.

Answer 2

In order to participate in Medicaid, federal law requires states to cover certain groups of individuals. Low income families, qualified pregnant women and children, and individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are examples of mandatory eligibility groups. States have additional options for coverage and may choose to cover other groups, such as individuals receiving home and community based services and children in foster care who are not otherwise eligible.