Medical Programs

1)      If I get Medical, does this count against my 5-year time limit?

No, medical benefits don't count against your 5-year time limit.  You can receive medical benefits for an unlimited time as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements of a medical program.

2)      If I don't want cash benefits, can I still receive medical?

Yes, you can get medical without cash benefits as long as your income and resources are within the standards and you meet the other eligibility requirements of one of our medical programs.

3)      If I want medical, must I go into the Community Services Office (CSO) for an interview?

If you want medical, cash, or Basic Food benefits, complete the Application for Benefits.  Return this application to your local CSO.  You do not need an interview if you are applying for medical only.

4)      Do I have to look for work to get medical?

No, medical programs do not have requirements for work activities.

5)      I am a teen parent and live with my boyfriend.  My friends tell me we cant get cash assistance.  Can I get medical?

Medical rules are different from the cash program rules.  You may be eligible for a medical program.

6)      I was getting cash benefits and recently went to work.  I now make too much money to get cash benefits can I still get medical?

You may get up to two 6-month medical extensions, regardless of how much money you are making at your job.  The second 6-month period may require a premium for adults.

7)      I was getting cash benefits, but I decided to stop getting cash benefits so I could save my cash months.  Can I still get medical?

Yes, you are still eligible for medical as long as you continue to meet the program requirements.

If later your income increases to the point where you are not eligible for cash benefits, you can still get up to two 6-month medical extensions, regardless of how much money you are making at your job.

8)      What happens if my ex-spouse starts paying child support?

If you are no longer eligible for cash assistance because you are now getting child support, you are eligible for at least a 4-month medical extension.

9)      What happens when the medical extensions end?

At the end of the medical extension, your medical benefits are re-determined.  If your income and resources are below the limits for family medical, you will be able to get medical benefits.  If your income is above the maximum, your children may be eligible for a children's medical program.  Children's medical has a much higher income limit.

10)  How often must I be evaluated or reviewed for my medical benefits?

If you get family medical benefits, you are eligible for 6 months.  You must, however, report if there are changes in your family size or income.  Some changes may affect your medical coverage.  Remember, after 6 months you must complete a review so we can see whether you are still eligible for family medical.  

Medical cases have a 12-month certification period with a 6-month report.  If the 6-month report is not completed, your medical will end.  At that time, you will be required to report the following changes, when:

v     You move;

v     Someone moves into your household; or

v      Your income changes by more than $100 and you expect this change to last at least two months.