Medicaid Purchase Plan

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The Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) provides health care coverage for people with a disability who are age 18 or older and are working or interested in working. 

With MAPP, you can get the same health benefits offered through Medicaid. You also have the opportunity to save money through an independence account without it counting towards the program’s asset limit.

Watch the video below to learn more about how the Medicaid Purchase Plan (MAPP) program is helping those with disabilities to live independent lives.

What are the eligibility requirements?

To be eligible for MAPP, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Live in Wisconsin.
  • Have a disability.
  • Have a job or be enrolled in the certified Health and Employment Counseling Program.
  • Have individual countable assets of $15,000 or less. (Countable assets include cash, checking and savings accounts, certificate of deposits, stocks and bonds, some life insurance policies, some annuities, and some burial assets. The home where you live and one vehicle are not considered countable assets.) 
  • Have an adjusted family income of less than 250% of the federal poverty level, based on your family size.

Do I have to pay to enroll in MAPP?

People may have to pay a premium for this health care coverage based on their income. A premium is an amount paid each month for your health care coverage.

What is an independence account?

Independence accounts are financial accounts set up through a bank or credit union and owned by the MAPP applicant or member. These accounts allow you to save money above the MAPP asset limit ($15,000) without affecting your MAPP eligibility.

How can I register for an independence account?

All new independence accounts must be registered. You must complete the MAPP Independence Account Registration form, F-10121, and return it to your local agency. 

What if I already have a retirement account?

Pre-existing retirement and pension accounts may also be used as independence accounts. These accounts must be registered as new independence accounts with your agency. The initial balance may be a countable asset.

Is family coverage available under the Medicaid Purchase Plan?

No.

What if my spouse or I can get health insurance through our employers?

If you or your spouse can get health insurance that costs less than Medicaid through your employers, MAPP may help pay for that insurance. You may have to pay a premium to enroll in MAPP. MAPP will pay other cost-sharing expenses, such as premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance.

What should I do if have questions?

Print-friendly Medicaid Purchase Plan fact sheet, P-10071

Last Revised: May 11, 2020