Losing Medicaid Coverage When Moving States

Last updated: June 26, 2024
Medicaid Long Term Care | Questions and AnswersCategory: BenefitsLosing Medicaid Coverage When Moving States
Anonymous asked 5 years ago

Will my dad lose his Medicaid coverage if we move him to another state?

1 Answers
medicaidplanner Staff answered 5 years ago

There isn’t a straightforward “yes” or “no” answer to this question. However, if timed right and done correctly, it is possible for your dad to continue to have Medicaid without a lapse in coverage.
To be very clear, your dad cannot have Medicaid in more than one state nor can his Medicaid coverage be transferred from one state to another. While Medicaid is a federal and state program, each state has its own rules and eligibility requirements within federally set parameters. Even though your dad meets the Medicaid eligibility requirements (financial and functional) in the state in which he resides, he may not meet them in the new state. It is imperative that you know the eligibility requirements in the state in which your dad currently resides and the state to which he might move. See state-specific eligibility criteria.

In addition to varying eligibility requirements, not all states offer the same Medicaid programs and benefits. While all states have Regular State Plan Medicaid, many states also offer state-specific Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid Waivers. For example, say your father is receiving assisted living services in his current state via a HCBS Medicaid Waiver. There may not be a program that offers assisted living services in the new state, or if there is, there may be a waitlist. Again, it is vital to do your research.

If you decide to relocate your dad, he will have to cancel his Medicaid coverage in his current state of residence and apply in the new state once he has moved. More about this process. Medicaid does, however, have a Retroactive Period in which they cover unpaid Medicaid expenses dating back 3 months (in most cases) prior to one’s Medicaid application. If your dad has any expenses during the Retroactive Period that would have been Medicaid covered, Medicaid will pay the bills once he is accepted into the new program.

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