Q: What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid? A: Medicare is administered by the federal government and is not based on financial need, but is generally linked to receiving Social Security benefits based on being age 65 or older, or having a disability. Each state administers their own Medicaid programs. Medicaid is based mainly on financial need.
Q: What services are covered? A: Covered services vary by program. You can call 855-294-2127 and choose option 1, and option 1 for more information. You can also go to the Wyoming Medicaid website for the Medicaid Handbook or sign up for the myHealthPortal.
Q: Where do I apply for Wyoming Medicaid? A: You may apply for Medicaid by calling the Customer Service Center at 855-294-2127, online at www.wesystem.wyo.gov, or by filling out an application in English or Spanish and mailing it to the WDH Customer Service Center in Cheyenne.
Q: How long does it take to process an application? A: Applications have 45 days to approve or deny an application. This is extended to 60 days if more information is needed from you and 90 days if the application is pending a disability determination.
Q: How will I be notified of my eligibility determination? A: The eligibility determination notice will be sent in the mail.
Q: If I have other insurance, would I still be eligible for Medicaid? A: Yes, with the exception of insurance through the Federally Facilitated Market Place. Medicaid pays amounts that are still owed after your primary insurance pays. If it is cost-effective, you may be eligible to have your health insurance premiums reimbursed if you have employer-sponsored insurance or COBRA.
Q: I was on Medicaid in another state, can I transfer my Medicaid? A: No. You cannot transfer Medicaid from one state to another. You must submit a new application in Wyoming.
Q: What if I don’t have a Social Security Number? A: If you do not have a Social Security Number, leave that field blank. You will need to apply for a Social Security Number through the Social Security Administration.
Q: How long will my children or I be covered by these programs? A: Under most programs, you will be approved for one year from the date your eligibility is determined.
Q: How do I keep my benefits? A: You will be sent a renewal form in the mail prior to your one-year anniversary. You will need to complete and return the renewal to the Customer Service Center or the Long-Term Care Unit where they will re-determine eligibility for you and/or your children. If it is determined that you are no longer eligible, you will be notified by mail.
Q: Do I have to pay for Medicaid? A: If you are eligible for Medicaid, you will receive Medicaid services at no cost to you with a few exceptions.
Q: What if I am disabled? A: If you feel that you are disabled, tell us on your application. You must qualify for disability programs using Social Security guidelines.
Q: What information do I need to know or take with me to apply? A: For most programs, you will need to bring verification of citizenship, DOB, SSN, identity, the last 30 days of income, and sometimes resources.
Q: What if my children do not qualify for Medicaid based on the household income? A: Children under the age of 19 may still qualify for Kid Care CHIP. For more information, visit their website.
Q: I lost my Medicaid card, how do I get a new one? A: Contact our Customer Service Center or log into the website.
Q: What should I do if I lost my Medicaid card?
A: To get a new Medicaid card, you can contact the Customer Service Center at 855-294-2127 or log into the website at https://wyomingmedicaid.com/portal/MemberHome. You may refer to the myHealthPortal User guide for instructions on ordering a new card.
Q: How can I change my information or report a birth of a child?
A: To make changes to your case or report the birth of a child, contact the Customer Service Center at 855-294-2127.
Q: Can I qualify for Medicaid if I am an adult with no income?
A: There is limited coverage through Medicaid for parents or qualified relatives of an eligible child under the age of 19 and aged, blind, or disabled individuals. For more information, please contact the Customer Service Center.
Q: How do I verify my self-employment income for Medicaid?
A: If your current self-employment income is the same as the previous year, you can turn in your previous year tax return. If your income has changed, we will need a current business ledger showing income and expenses. Here is an example of a business ledger that may be used.
Q: What is considered a resource by Medicaid?
A: Resources are defined as real or personal property that has economic value, including but not limited to cash savings, checking and savings accounts, life insurance policies, investments, houses, land, vehicles, etc. All resources are countable unless specifically excluded by regulation.
Q: Should I cancel my other health insurance if I think I am eligible for Medicaid?
A: No, you can still qualify for Medicaid and keep your current health insurance policy.
Q: How can I file a complaint with Medicaid?
A: If you do not understand or disagree with a Medicaid decision, contact the Customer Service Center or the Long Term Care Unit. If you feel that policy was incorrectly followed, you may ask for an Administrative Hearing. You must request this within 30 days of being notified in writing of a decision regarding your Medicaid benefits.
Q: Am I automatically eligible for Medicaid if I am receiving Social Security benefits?
A: No, you are only automatically eligible for Medicaid if you are SSI medically eligible.
Q: What is Estate Recovery?
A: Estate recovery is a process that helps the State of Wyoming generate funds to pay medical care costs through the Medicaid program. The State may seek repayment from the estates of certain deceased clients who have benefited from the Medicaid program. For more information, please refer to the Estate Recovery Brochure.
Q: Is there a link to access the Wyoming Eligibility Manual?
A: Yes, the link is ecom.wyo.gov.