SSI

If a person receives SSI, will employment cause him or her to lose MassHealth benefits?

No. When a person works, he or she may be eligible for Medicaid/MassHealth — even if the person no longer receives an SSI check — through the Social Security’s 1619b program or the MassHealth CommonHealth benefit. The individual will be notified in writing of any change.

What is the 1619b program?

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has a provision in place to help beneficiaries keep their MassHealth. Earnings must fall under the state threshold amount ($37,757 in 2009) if earnings are under the state cap, an individuals may be eligible if he or she meets the requirements as described on the 1619(b) page.

What is MassHealth CommonHealth?

CommonHealth is a MassHealth “buy-in” benefit for working people with disabilities who have household incomes above MassHealth Standard financial eligibility.

Massachusetts adults age 19 and older with disabilities as determined by SSA, Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) or MassHealth CommonHealth, are eligible for CommonHealth if they are working at least 40 hours each month or have worked 240 hours in the previous six months at the point of application.

The beneficiary is charged a monthly premium based on income, and will receive the same services as MassHeatlh Standard.

Do people have to pay a large deductible to get CommonHealth?

No. If a person works at least 40 hours per month or 240 hours in the previous six months, there is no deductible. Non-working people with disabilities or those working less than 40 hours a month are required to pay a one-time deductible for MassHealth CommonHealth.

SSDI

If a person receives SSDI and Medicare, will employment affect his or her insurance?

In many cases, Medicare continues regardless of employment. Medicare can continue for at least 90 months after the end of the Trial Work Period.

How does a person know when the Trial Work Period has ended?

The beneficiary should consult Social Security office and compare SSA records with his or her own records from work.