Are you a Wisconsin resident? Are you interested in learning more about the Medicaid program? Maybe you’re doing so for yourself, as you think you’re in position to receive benefits in the future. Or maybe you’re digging up information for a loved one who may be able to apply for Medicaid.
Regardless of your position, it’s important to understand that there are many finer details associated with the Wisconsin Medicaid program. As you learn more, you’ll find yourself in position to make the right decisions at the right time.
Things to Know
Just the same as every other state, the Wisconsin Medicaid program is full of advanced details. While you may never take the time to become a subject matter expert, it goes without saying that you need to learn a little if you plan on applying for benefits.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the state’s Medicaid plans are designed for the following groups of people:
- Age 65 or older, blind, or disabled.
- Those with a family income at or below the limit set by the department.
- Both United States citizens and legal immigrants.
If you or a loved one fits into one or more of these categories, you’ll want to learn more about the Wisconsin Medicaid and how to move forward with the application process.
How to Apply
The best way to determine if you can receive benefits through Wisconsin Medicaid or another program (more on these below) is to complete the appropriate application. Fortunately, the state provides a variety of ways to apply.
In addition to an online system, you can also complete the process in person, by mail, or over the phone.
Here are some tips associated with applying for Medicaid:
- Go online. This is the easiest way to apply for benefits, as all you have to do is visit wi.gov and follow the prompts. Not only is this a simple process, but it is the fastest.
- Apply in person or by phone. If you are interested in taking this step, you’ll need to find the local agency that is responsible for assisting those who live in your county.
- Mail a paper application. Some people still prefer a traditional paper application. If this sounds familiar, you can print, complete, and mail an application at your convenience. The only downfall of this is the time that it takes to process.
Other Programs
In addition to Wisconsin Medicaid, there are similar programs to consider. These include but are not limited to:
- Community Waivers. This program helps elderly, disabled, or blind people stay in their own home as opposed to moving to a nursing facility.
- Emergency Services Plan. Designed to cover medical services associated with an emergency medical condition.
- Medicaid Deductible Plan. This comes into play for those who have large medical bills but earn too much money to qualify for the Medicaid program.
- Medicaid Purchase Plan. For people who have a disability but work.
- Well Woman Medicaid Plan. This is designed for women who have been diagnosed with cervical and/or breast cancer and require treatment.
All of these programs are worth learning more about, as you may find that you or a loved one qualifies to receive a particular set of benefits.
What to do next
Once you have an idea of what program you’re applying for, the best thing you can do is determine how you want to apply.
Some find themselves in a unique situation, such as seeking more information on Medicaid asset protection. In this case, you’ll want to consult with an experienced elder law attorney.
For example, we can help you with this process by: making gifts to family members, taking full advantage of an irrevocable living trust, and paying for certain Medicaid expenses.
At our law firm, we realize that applying for Medicaid benefits is easier said than done. There is a lot that goes into this, and making any mistake along the way could cost you both time and money.
If you require any assistance at any point in the process, reach out to us online or via phone. From there, you can be rest assured that you’ll have the guidance you need to make informed decisions.
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