Changes to Missouri Medicaid (MoHealthNet)
When the COVID-19 pandemic started in 2020, the federal government declared a public health emergency (PHE). The PHE disallowed the State of Missouri from removing Medicaid participants from Medicaid, even if the participant became ineligible for Medicaid. Also, the PHE paused all annual renewals for those on Missouri Medicaid (MoHealthNet). For the last three years, Medicaid continued for all participants, even if the participant became over-resourced or was otherwise ineligible for Medicaid. This allowed many people to receive nursing home Medicaid (Vendor Medicaid) during the pandemic, even if they were ineligible for Medicaid due to being over-resourced. As of April 1, 2023, this PHE rule has changed.
As of April 1, 2023, Medicaid will be required to check the eligibility of all Missourians who receive Medicaid, including nursing home Medicaid. Additionally, annual renewals are now required for Medicaid participants to continue receiving their Medicaid benefits. Typically, the annual renewal will be required in the month in which the Medicaid participant’s Medicaid coverage began. Medicaid has provided the following timeline for renewals: https://mydss.mo.gov/renew/timeline. The renewal letter will include a yellow form for you to complete and return to MoHealthNet.
You may find that you no longer qualify for Medicaid because you are over-resourced and have more assets than are allowed to remain on Medicaid. For the last three years, during the COVID-19 pandemic, you could remain on Medicaid even if you had too many assets. Now, with the reintroduction of annual renewals, you can be removed from Medicaid.
You may be told by MoHealthNet or the nursing home that you must spend down your assets to remain on Medicaid. However, there may be other options. Oftentimes we can help preserve assets rather than spending down until you have nothing left. If you receive a yellow form from the Department of Social Services – MoHealthNet and believe you no longer qualify for Medicaid, consider calling The Elder Law Group for a consultation appointment to discuss how you can stay on Medicaid and possibly preserve your assets.
The attorneys at The Elder Law Group are experienced in Medicaid asset protection and can meet with you and your family to tailor a plan specific to you. Contact us today at 417-708-2044 or info@TheElderLawGroup to schedule a consultation.