Paying for health care

How will I get and pay for health care insurance?  

• It is important to always have health insurance to help pay for your healthcare needs. Make sure you understand your insurance. 
• Private Insurance
• Healthcare insurance through your job: Your job may offer insurance. Ask your employer. 
• Healthcare insurance through your parents: You may be able to stay on your parents’ insurance. If your parents’ insurance plan covers children, you may be able to stay on their plan until you turn 26 years old or longer if you have a verified disability.

Insurance changes that happen at age 19

If you are on Katie Beckett Insurance or other Medicaid insurance: If you have insurance through the Katie Beckett Waiver it will end when you turn 19 years old. You will get a letter about what to do next. You should apply for insurance through one of the Medicaid programs shown below.

Public insurance options and changes that happen as an adult

Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC): At age 17.5 contact the ADRC in your county.

They can help you understand and access long term support funding services you might need. Visit their website for more information about your county’s ADRC.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Individuals with disabilities may be able to get SSI.

Apply in the month you turn 18 years old. Do not apply earlier or your parents’ income will be counted. If you qualify you will receive Medicaid coverage. To start the process call Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 or go online. Ask your social worker if you need help.

If you are on Katie Beckett Insurance or other Medicaid insurance: If you have insurance through the Katie Beckett Waiver it will end when you turn 19 years old. You will get a letter about what to do next. You should apply for insurance through one of the Medicaid programs shown below.

Government Insurance

Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC): At age 17.5 contact the ADRC in your county.
They can help you understand and access long term support funding services you might need. For information about your county’s ADRC, visit their website.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Individuals with disabilities may be able to get SSI. 
Apply in the month you turn 18 years old. Do not apply earlier or your parents’ income will be counted. If you qualify you will receive Medicaid coverage. To start the process call Social Security Administration (SSA) at 1-800-772-1213 or go online. Ask your social worker if you need help.

Medicaid (may be called BadgerCare): In Wisconsin, your insurance will change when you turn 19 years old. You will need to apply for your own plan. The BadgerCare plan is based on how much money you earn. Apply for Medicaid (BadgerCare)

Marketplace insurance (also known as Obamacare): Almost everyone can get a Marketplace insurance plan. Financial help is based on how much money you make. For more details call 1-800-318-2596 or visit their website. 

Medical Assistance Purchase Plan (MAPP) allows people with disabilities who are working, or want to work, to get insurance through the Wisconsin Medicaid Program. You may have to pay for it. It will depend on how much money you make. Apply