- TO:
- ALL COUNTY OFFICES
- FROM:
- ALYSON CAMPBELL, DIRECTOR
- SUBJECT:
- AFFORDABLE INSURANCE STANDARDS CHANGE FOR MO HEALTHNET FOR KIDS CHIP PREMIUM PROGRAM
- MANUAL REVISION #8
0920.020.10.05
DISCUSSION:
Effective April 1, 2014, the affordability standard for Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) premium families is changed with the increase to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) income guidelines. The affordability standard is based upon a percentage of income for a family of three at 150%, 185%, or 225% of the FPL, depending upon the family's gross income.
Effective April 1, 2014, families with income between 150% and 300% of the FPL with access to health insurance must meet the following affordability guidelines:
- 151% - 185% of the FPL (CHIP 73) = $74/month
- 186% - 225% of the FPL (CHIP 74) = $122/month
- 226% - 300% of the FPL (CHIP 75) = $185/month
NOTE: Consider all state agencies where health insurance is available to their employees as affordable regardless of the cost of the health insurance.
Applications and Interim Changes
On the weekend of March 8, 2014, the MO HealthNet programs with income eligibility based on federal poverty level were adjusted in FAMIS. The adjustments began Saturday, March 8.
FAMIS adjusted active cases, based on the new affordability standard. If there was no outstanding verification or other outstanding issues at the time the adjustment was completed, the system authorized the action(s). Notices were sent on all actions except actions that resulted in no change (NOCH in FAMIS).
For FAMIS determinations created on or after March 10, 2014, FAMIS will use the new affordability standard effective for April 2014. For determinations effective March 2014 and earlier, FAMIS will apply the previous affordability standard.
NECESSARY ACTION:
- Apply the new affordability standards for April 2014 and later.
- Review this memorandum with appropriate staff.
AC/mks/df