Understanding the Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP)
The Healthy Michigan Plan is a form of Medicaid expansion that offers low-cost health coverage to Michigan residents who meet specific age and income requirements. It was designed to help extend healthcare access to more of the state's population. It's crucial to understand that HMP is distinct from other traditional Medicaid programs, and this distinction is key to understanding the rules surrounding assets.
No Asset Test for HMP Eligibility
One of the most significant features of the Healthy Michigan Plan is the absence of an asset test. This means that when determining your eligibility, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) will not count your assets. For HMP purposes, assets can include cash in bank accounts, investments, and other property. This policy allows more people to qualify for the program, ensuring that those with modest savings are not disqualified from receiving necessary health insurance.
HMP Eligibility: What Actually Matters
Instead of assets, HMP eligibility is primarily determined by your income, age, and other non-financial factors. To qualify for the Healthy Michigan Plan, you must meet all the following criteria:
- Age: Be between 19 and 64 years old.
- Income: Have an income at or below 133% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The exact income amount changes each year.
- Residency: Be a resident of the State of Michigan.
- Non-Eligibility: Not be eligible for or enrolled in Medicare.
- Non-Pregnancy: Not be pregnant at the time of application.
- Traditional Medicaid: Not be eligible for or enrolled in other traditional Medicaid programs.
HMP vs. Traditional Medicaid: A Critical Distinction
While HMP does not have an asset limit, it is important to remember that not all Medicaid programs in Michigan operate this way. Many traditional Medicaid categories, particularly those for long-term care services like nursing home care or home and community-based waiver programs such as MI Choice, have strict asset limitations. For this reason, anyone exploring Medicaid options must first confirm which program they are applying for.
A Comparison of Michigan Medicaid Programs
To help clarify the differences between the Healthy Michigan Plan and other traditional Medicaid programs, consider the following comparison table. This demonstrates how financial eligibility rules can vary significantly depending on the specific program.
| Feature | Healthy Michigan Plan (HMP) | Traditional Medicaid (TM) for Long-Term Care | Traditional Medicaid for Children/Pregnant Women |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asset Limit? | No | Yes (Limits increased in 2025) | Generally No |
| Primary Eligibility Factor | Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) | Income and Assets | Income (MAGI) |
| Who is Eligible? | Adults 19-64 | Seniors, people with disabilities requiring long-term care | Children, pregnant women |
| Age Restriction? | Yes, 19-64 | No, generally 65+ or with qualifying disability | Yes, for children and pregnant women |
| Covers Most Services? | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Michigan's Increased Asset Limits for Traditional Medicaid
It is worth noting that for traditional Medicaid programs that do have an asset limit, the state of Michigan recently made a significant change. Effective February 1, 2025, Michigan raised the asset caps for certain Medicaid-based long-term care programs. This means that for those specific programs, applicants can now hold more in countable assets than before. The new limits are as follows:
- Single Individuals: $9,660 of countable assets.
- Married Couples: $14,470 of countable assets.
These changes do not affect HMP's zero-asset-limit policy but are important context for anyone comparing healthcare programs. For married couples seeking long-term care, spousal impoverishment rules allow the community spouse (the one not receiving care) to retain a portion of the couple's assets to prevent them from becoming impoverished.
How to Apply for the Healthy Michigan Plan
Applying for the Healthy Michigan Plan is a straightforward process handled by the MDHHS. There are several ways to submit an application:
- Online: The fastest and easiest way is to apply online through the MiBridges portal. This platform also lets you manage your benefits once enrolled.
- By Phone: You can call the MDHHS assistance line to apply over the phone.
- In-Person: Visit a local MDHHS office to apply in person with a caseworker.
Before applying, you should gather all the necessary financial and identification documents to ensure a smooth process. You can find more official information on the MDHHS website: Healthy Michigan Plan.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Confidence
For those seeking health coverage through the Healthy Michigan Plan, the most important takeaway is that there is no asset limit to worry about. The eligibility process focuses entirely on your income level and other specific criteria. This stands in contrast to some traditional Medicaid programs that serve different populations and purposes. By understanding the key differences between these programs, you can confidently navigate your options and secure the healthcare you need without fear of losing your hard-earned savings. If you have questions about your specific circumstances, consulting an elder law attorney or an MDHHS patient advocate can provide invaluable guidance.
