GIS 20 MA/04, dated 4/2/20, details some changes to the Medicaid application process which were prompted by the COVID-19 crisis.
The changes are to remain in effect for the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency. GIS 20 MA/04, at 1.
Some of the changes for people applying for Medicaid to pay for nursing home care include being allowed to attest to income and resources. This includes attesting to any transfer of assets during the look-back period. It also includes attesting to naming the State as remainder beneficiary of an annuity. Proof/documentation will be required at renewal. GIS 20 MA/04, at 4.
For people in hospitals and nursing homes, the Medicaid application and Supplement A can be signed by someone acting on the applicant’s behalf. If the applicant or the applicant’s spouse cannot sign, Form DOH-5147 should be used for Upstate applicants; Section C of the form should be filled out to indicate that the applicant cannot sign the form due to rules preventing access to people in hospitals/nursing homes. Form MAP-3044 should be used for NYC applicants; the Reason for Submission/Section II should be filled out the same way. If the applicant is able to sign to authorize someone to apply for them, the applicant should sign Section D of Form DOH-5147. GIS 20 MA/04, at 4.
People turning age 65 must not be required to apply for other benefits, such as Medicare and Social Security, as a condition of Medicaid eligibility. GIS 20 MA/04, at 5.
People with health insurance will not be required to provide information about it. DSS is not required to make new cost effective determinations for possible reimbursement if sufficient information is not available. GIS 20 MA/04, at 5.
DSS may accept attestation of the amount being received from retirement accounts and annuities. GIS 20 MA/04, at 5.
No documentation should be requested based on Asset Verification System responses. GIS 20 MA/04, at 5-6.
Updated 05/08/2020