One of the important changes brought about by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is the expansion of Medicaid eligibility in many states. Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program for low-income individuals and families. The ACA expanded Medicaid eligibility to individuals with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). In 2023, this means that individuals with incomes up to $18,754 per year qualify for Medicaid.

However, it is important to note that the Medicaid expansion is optional for states. As a result, not all states have expanded Medicaid eligibility. If you live in a state that has not expanded Medicaid, you may not be eligible for Medicaid coverage even if your income is below the poverty level.

This is exactly what happened to the OP in the post. North Carolina did not expand Medicaid until December 2023. Once the expansion took place, individuals with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level may be eligible for Medicaid. However, if your income is over $20,120, you will not be eligible for Medicaid.

What Happens If You Lose Medicaid Due to Increased Income?

If you lose Medicaid due to increased income, you will need to find other health insurance coverage. You can do this by purchasing a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace or through a private insurance company. If you qualify for a subsidy, you may be able to lower the cost of your health insurance plan.

How to Apply for Health Insurance Coverage

If you need to apply for health insurance coverage, you can do so through the Health Insurance Marketplace. The Marketplace is a government-run website where you can compare health insurance plans and find out if you qualify for a subsidy. You can also apply for Medicaid through the Marketplace.

To apply for health insurance coverage through the Marketplace, you will need to:

Create an account on the Marketplace website

Provide information about your income and household size

Compare health insurance plans and select a plan that meets your needs

Enroll in a health insurance plan

You can also apply for health insurance coverage through a private insurance company. To do this, you will need to contact a private insurance company and ask for a quote. You can compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best plan for your needs.

Conclusion

Losing Medicaid coverage can be a stressful experience. However, it is important to remember that you have options for finding other health insurance coverage. If you lose Medicaid due to increased income, you can apply for health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace or through a private insurance company. If you qualify for a subsidy, you may be able to lower the cost of your health insurance plan. Call our licensed agents to help you navigate the process.