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The Medicaid Buy-In for Working People With Disabilities (MBI-WPD)

The Medicaid Buy-in for Working People with Disabilities (MBI-WPD) expands eligibility for individuals with disabilities under age 65 who have work income.  Under MBI-WPD, individuals are eligible for full Medicaid benefits at much higher incomes than individuals who are not working.   The income limit is 250% of the Federal Poverty Line, after more than half of gross earned income is disregarded.   This allows them to earn more income without the risk of losing health coverage.  See how earned income is calculated for anyone with a disability or who is age 65+ here.

The official State website on this program has basic information, including the current income and resource limits which change every year with the Federal Poverty Line.  2023  levels are in Box 5 in the Medicaid Income and Resource Levels Chart.   

Jan. 1, 2023- Asset limits increased  GIS 22 MA/11): 

  • Singles    increase from   $20,000 to $28,133          
  • Couples   increase from   $30,000 to  $37,902

Heads up - Expansion of Eligibility Coming in 2025! 

The NYS Legislature and Governor agreed to expand eligibility in 2025 - increasing income and asset limits and removing the age limit of 65.  See this document for more infomation on these changes, and some recommendations for implementation. 

Applications

Applications for MBI-WPD should include the usual components of a Medicaid application, as well as proof of disability, proof of employment, and two additional forms:

Law, Regulations, and NYS Guidance 

LAW:  NY Social Services Law § 366(1)(a)(14 - 15), §  367-a(15).  State directives include:

Advocacy Information and Training Materials 


This article was authored by the Empire Justice Center.

Empire Justice Center


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