- The long-term unemployed and seniors aged 65 or older whose monthly income is at or below the 100% federal poverty line (FPL) qualify for MassHealth insurance. The federal poverty line depends on family size. For example, a family of one whose income is at $903 a month in 2009 is defined as being at the 100% FPL. A family size of two can earn $1,215 a month to be at the FPL. Each additional family member increases the minimum monthly income requirement by $312.
- Parents and caretakers as well as disabled adults qualify for MassHealth insurance if their income is equal to or less than 133% of the FPL. This equates to an income of $1,201 in 2009 for a family of one, and increases by $415 for each additional family member. Children aged one to 18 qualify for MassHealth if their parents earn 150% of the FPL or less, which equates to $1,822 for a family of two, increasing at increments of $486 for each additional person.
- Pregnant women, infants under one year old and HIV-positive individuals under the age of 65 qualify for MassHealth with incomes at or under 200% of the FPL, which is $1,805 for a family of one in 2009. Women with breast or cervical cancer qualify for the 250% level, equating to $2,257 in monthly income, which increases by $780 with each additional family member. Workers who already have health insurance but are unable to provide coverage for their families may qualify for MassHealth with incomes at 300% of the FPL. This equates to an income of $2,708 a month.
- Seniors may qualify for MassHealth coverage even if their incomes are too high to normally qualify. In such a case, they must demonstrate that their medical expenses are higher than their monthly senior deductible. In 2009, the senior deductible standard was $522 for singles and $650 for couples.
The 100% Federal Poverty Line (FPL)
The 133% and 150% FPLs
The 200%, 250% and 300% FPLs
Exceptions for Seniors
SHARE
