Iowa’s Medicaid expansion may improve your eligibility for government-sponsored health insurance. Keep reading to learn more about Medicaid expansion, then contact Huizenga Law Firm, P.C., to discuss your eligibility for this program.

Medicaid Expansion: The Basics

Medicaid is a government-sponsored health benefits program available to people who meet certain income thresholds and demographic requirements. Because Medicaid benefits come from federal and state governments, each state across the U.S. has slightly different criteria for applicants.

The Affordable Care Act in 2010 helped close the coverage gap for Medicaid applicants whose incomes were below the federal poverty level but who did not previously qualify. Still, each state has different eligibility requirements under Medicaid expansion.

Iowa Medicaid Eligibility Requirements

In 2023, Iowa Medicaid (also called Title 19) is available to:

  • People over age 65
  • Pregnant people
  • Parents with children under age 19 living at home
  • People who are blind or have disabilities
  • People living in a nursing home
  • People who need treatment for breast cancer or cervical cancer
  • People who need family planning services

If you fall under one of the above categories, you must also meet these minimum eligibility requirements to qualify:

  • Live in Iowa
  • Be a U.S. citizen or a legally qualified immigrant
  • Meet minimum thresholds for income and resources
  • Have a social security number (or be in the process of applying for one)

Iowa Health and Wellness Plan

The Iowa Health and Wellness Plan is Iowa’s Medicaid expansion program. This plan provides health coverage for people between the ages of 19 and 64. Eligible Iowans can receive free health care as long as they complete certain health behaviors outlined by the program, which may include:

  • Getting a wellness or dental exam
  • Completing a health risk assessment

Finding Out Whether You Are Eligible for Medicaid in Iowa

Medicaid expansion makes this government-sponsored program available to more people across Iowa. You can check your eligibility for Iowa Medicaid in a few ways:

Use the Medicaid Eligibility Checker

Start by using the Medicaid Eligibility Checker on the benefits.gov website. You’ll need to answer questions about your citizenship, household size, health status, other government benefits, and income.

We recommend gathering your tax returns and pay stubs before beginning this checker, as you’ll need detailed information about your income.

Calculate Your Income Against the Poverty Level

Medicaid programs are income-based, so you should understand whether your income is above or below the poverty level.

To qualify for Iowa Medicaid, your income must be below the following thresholds per household size:

  • One person: $19,392
  • Two people: $26,228
  • Three people: $33,064
  • Four people: $39,900

To qualify for the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan, your income must not exceed 133% of the Federal Poverty Level.

Consult an Experienced Medicaid Planning Attorney in Iowa

The attorneys at Huizenga Law Firm, P.C., can help you understand your eligibility for Iowa Medicaid. They can also walk you through strategies to improve your eligibility, such as transferring some of your assets into a trust.

For help understanding Medicaid expansion and applying for Medicaid benefits, contact Huizenga Law Firm, P.C., today at 712-737-3885.