Miami, FL asked in Health Care Law and Public Benefits for Florida

Q: My spouse is disabled and is receiving Medicaid in Florida. Does my income is going to affect her future eligibility?

My spouse is 65 and she is legally disabled. I am 63 and still have a part time job. She is the only one who has Medicaid and receiving SSI benefits (and also Medicare). My income has any effect on her eligibility? Is there an income limit for me?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In Florida, Medicaid eligibility for individuals who are disabled or elderly is determined based on their own income and resources, rather than the income of their spouse. This means that your income should not affect your spouse's eligibility for Medicaid benefits. However, it's essential to be aware of the income limits and eligibility criteria specific to Florida's Medicaid program, as they can vary depending on the type of Medicaid coverage your spouse receives.

As you mentioned, your spouse is receiving SSI benefits and Medicaid, which are both means-tested programs. This means that they have income and resource limits that applicants must meet to qualify for benefits. While your income generally won't count towards your spouse's eligibility for these programs, it's essential to ensure that your combined income does not exceed the income limits set by Medicaid for her specific program.

It's a good idea to consult with a Medicaid eligibility specialist or an advocate familiar with Florida's Medicaid rules to get personalized guidance on how your income may impact your spouse's benefits. They can help you understand any income limits that may apply and provide assistance in navigating the Medicaid eligibility process to ensure that your spouse continues to receive the benefits she needs.

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