GREENSBORO, N.C. — Medicaid is officially expanded in North Carolina meaning hundreds of thousands more low-income people can qualify for healthcare coverage. But to get that coverage you have to sign up. So let's dig deeper into the changes and who qualifies now.
Who qualifies now?
Before to qualify a single person had to be a us citizen who makes less than 19,392 and either be pregnant, have a child, be blind, have a disability or a family member with a disability, or be 65 years or older. Now, all those same people qualify -- plus any single person who simply makes less than 20,120 a year. The income requirements go up with bigger families.
Family of 2: $27,214 or less
Family of 3: $34,307 or less
Family of 4: $41,400 or less
Family of 5: $48,493 or less
Family of 6: $55,586 or less
The point is that pretty much anyone who doesn't make a lot of money now qualifies. Almost all the other requirements are gone.
How do you sign up?
You can apply in person at the local DSS office, or you can apply online through a website called ePASS. To apply you'll need your social security number or in some cases your immigration documents, proof that you live in North Carolina like an electric bill, and information about your income like a W-2 or a tax return.
How much does it cost?
A big question online from people is: how much are the monthly premiums and copay with Medicaid? According to the state, "You do not have to pay any monthly premiums. Medicaid pays the cost of most healthcare services. The highest copay is $4 and that is only required for some services."
Can you have Medicare and receive Medicaid expansion?
According to the state's website: "No. Some people who have Medicare coverage may be eligible for other existing Medicaid programs. For example, people who are disabled and are age 64 and under may be eligible for Medicaid through disability coverage."
How long does it take?
If you think you might qualify, apply as soon as possible because it can take more than 40 days to be fully enrolled.