How to apply for MO HealthNet Spend Down in Missouri

Who it's for

Missourians who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled and over the MO HealthNet income limit can still get coverage through Spend Down — there is no income cap. Each month, income above the standard ($1,131 for one aged/disabled person, $1,533 for a couple) becomes a spend-down amount that can be met by submitting medical bills, by paying it to the state like an insurance premium, or both. Resources must be $6,220.50 or less for one person or $12,441 for a couple. Apply with the regular MO HealthNet application.

What you'll need

• MO HealthNet application (FSD assigns the monthly spend-down amount)
• To meet with bills: incurred medical expenses not covered by a third party
• To pay in: check to MO HealthNet Division, P.O. Box 808001, Kansas City, MO 64180, or automatic withdrawal

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about MO HealthNet Spend Down. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need mO HealthNet application (FSD assigns the monthly spend-down amount), to meet with bills: incurred medical expenses not covered by a third party, to pay in: check to MO HealthNet Division, P.O. Box 808001, Kansas City, MO 64180, or automatic withdrawal — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather documents that show your identity, income, and resources so you are ready to complete the MO HealthNet application.
2. Apply online or call 1-855-373-9994 to submit a MO HealthNet application — Spend Down is part of the same application process.
3. After you apply, the Family Support Division (FSD) will review your income and resources and set your monthly spend-down amount — this is the portion of your income above the MO HealthNet standard.
4. Each month, meet your spend-down amount in one or more of these ways: submit medical bills not covered by another insurer, mail a check to MO HealthNet Division at P.O. Box 808001, Kansas City, MO 64180, or set up automatic withdrawal — or use a combination of both.
5. Keep records of any medical bills you use to meet your spend-down amount, since you will need to submit them to show the requirement has been met.
6. Renew your coverage each year when FSD sends your renewal notice — respond promptly to avoid a gap in coverage.

What to expect: After you submit your application, the Family Support Division will review your income and resources and notify you of your eligibility and your monthly spend-down amount. Coverage applies each month only after that spend-down amount has been met through medical bills, a payment to the state, or both — so it is important to track and submit bills or payments every month. Processing times vary, so contact FSD or call 1-855-373-9994 for an estimate. You will need to renew your coverage annually; watch for a renewal notice from FSD and return it on time to keep your benefits active.

Renewals

annual