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Last updated January 25, 2024

 When to use: 

How to check if someone has met their spenddown to qualify for Extra Help. 

 Important: 

Medical Assistance is not in effect unless the spenddown has been met. 

 What is a spenddown: 

A spenddown is similar to a health care deductible. A person must pay (or incur) a certain amount of money toward their medical bills before MA will begin to cover medical expenses.

A spenddown is a cost-sharing approach that allows a person to reduce their excess income by the amount of certain health care expenses. If their income is more than the allowed income limit, they may still qualify for health care coverage by meeting a spenddown.

 Eligibility:  

See Financial assistance for people with low to modest income quick reference

 

 How to tell if a spenddown has been met: 

 

 When spenddowns will show at Medicare after being met: 

 

 Person has met their spenddown: 

 

 Person has NOT met their spenddown: