Through the Medicaid program, low-income families can obtain health-care coverage for their children who lack this coverage. One of the key factors in determining Medicaid eligibility is gross monthly income. Generally, a family qualifies for this coverage if its income falls below a set threshold, making the formula for this income calculation one of great importance for potential Medicaid recipients.
Basic Income Calculation
The first step in calculating gross monthly income is determining the family's basic income. Your basic income is any money that comes into the home monthly. This income includes any income earned through employment of any adults in the home as well as child support.
By adding up all income, you can start the gross income calculation process. This basic addition isn't all that you must do, however; you can still take deductions from this income prior to reporting it as your "gross income" for Medicaid eligibility purposes.
Deductions
The specific deductions families can take from their income prior to reporting it as "gross income" vary from program to program. However, common deductible items include childcare costs or child support that the filer pays to an individual not living in the household. For example, if a man is applying for Medicaid for children who live with him and he has other children who do not live with him and for whom he pays child support, he can often deduct this child support from his income. In some cases, individuals can also deduct work-related expenses from their income.
Variations
Medicaid programs, along with the specifications that relate to calculating gross monthly income, vary from state to state. They can also vary depending upon the Medicaid program for which you are applying, as some programs have more stringent requirements than others. Because of this, those considering filing Medicaid applications should first check with their local family-services office to determine for which other deductions they may be eligible. This ensures that they qualify before they proceed with the application process.
Official Calculations
Any calculations you make in regard to your gross monthly income will be purely unofficial and likely only used as a personal way for you to determine your likelihood of Medicaid eligibility. A worker for the county in which you live will perform official calculations after you file your application. This individual will be well versed in Medicaid law as well as the deductions to which you are entitled.