How Long Does it Take to Qualify for Long Term Care Medicaid in Arkansas?

A common concern for many clients is, once an application for Medicaid benefits has been submitted, how long does it take to qualify for Medicaid in Arkansas?   Since Medicaid is a jointly funded program, between the federal government and the government of each state, the qualifications may be somewhat different.  As such, the application and qualification process may be different, depending on the state in which you apply.

Typically, a Medicaid application takes 3 to 6 months to process, unless a disability determination needs to be made. The process time can also increase if the required documentation is not provided promptly.

Who considers your application for Medicaid in Arkansas

The Department of Human Services is responsible for administering the Medicaid program in Arkansas.  This includes handling your Medicaid application.  You can have a relative or friend assist you in completing the application, as long as you sign the form and provide all of the required information regarding you and your family.  The application will require information about your income and all of the property and other assets you own.  The Department of Human Services in the county you live in is where you submit your application.  This office may or may note be the DHS office that determines if you are eligible, after reviewing the information you provide with your application.

What do you need to apply for Medicaid?

To make the process easier, you can print a Medicaid Application form on the Department of Human Services website.  When you take the completed application to the Department of Human Services office, also take proof of your age, such as a birth certificate or driver’s license, along with pay stubs for everyone who is employed in your household.  You will also need your social security card and proof of all sources of income and property owned.  There is a maximum amount of available assets that can be owned, in order to qualify, which is currently $2,000.00 for a single person.  If you are a married person submitting a Medicaid application, then you would be wise to consult an attorney who works in this are of the law.

What happens after you apply?

Once your application is approved and you are accepted into the program, you will receive a Medicaid card, identifying your health care provider.  It is illegal to allow anyone else to use your card.  Doing so could result in a fine or even jail time.

How do Medicaid benefits work?

Medicaid is not a reimbursement program, meaning it does not make any payments for medical care or expenses directly to you.  It makes payments to your health care providers instead, as long as those health care providers are enrolled as Medicaid providers.  In other words, the health care provider can bill Medicaid for the services that have been provided to you.

Physicians are not required to bill Medicaid.  So, it is important that you verify whether your healthcare provider will submit your bill to Medicaid for payment, or else you may find yourself responsible for those medical expenses.

If you have questions about qualifying for Medicaid, or any other Medicaid planning needs, please contact Wilcox Attorneys, PA online or by calling us at (479) 443-0062.