They Want Your Buy-in

One of the biggest worries that individuals with disabilities have when they attempt to work is the loss of benefits – especially health care coverage.  They are worried that they will have no coverage at all or be forced into an employer’s plan that they cannot afford or that won’t cover their disability.

There are solutions to this dilemma, however.  The solutions are found as part of the Social Security Act- especially part 1619b and Medicare.  One of the most important provisions is the Medicaid Buy-in program.  This program was designed to provide access to comprehensive health care for working people with disabilities.  This is essential for many people with disabilities who find it difficult to find affordable and comprehensive coverage privately. 

The Medicaid Buy-in program allows people with disability to pay a premium for coverage through their state’s Medicaid program, just as they would if they were buying private health coverage.  The concept behind the buy-in was originally put forth in the Balanced Budget Act of 1997 to allow for individuals who lost SSI or SSDI benefits because they were making more money working.  These individuals were able to support themselves without receiving SSI or SSDI checks because they were making enough money through their paychecks from work.  However, they still needed health coverage, and Medicaid was the best choice for many situations.  As long as the individuals continued to meet the Social Security definition of disability, they would be eligible for the buy-in program.

If you find yourself in this type of situation, there are several steps you can take.  You can contact your county health department to determine what local programs are available; you can check with your state Medicaid office to see whether you qualify for the Medicaid Buy-in or other benefits; and you can check the Social Security Administration, Medicaid or Medicare websites for further information.

Filed under: General-Medicaid, Medicare Supplemental Insurances

Tags: buy-in program, disability, General-Medicare, medicaid, social security