65 and Enrolled in Healthy Michigan? It’s Time to Move into Medicare.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the federal government paused Medicaid re-enrollment requirements, keeping Healthy Michigan recipients enrolled without needing to reapply. But now, that policy is ending.

If you’re 65 or older and enrolled in Healthy Michigan, you might need to reapply for Medicaid or transition to Medicare. Here’s what to watch for and how to navigate this change.

Look for Important Letters from the State

If you’re still enrolled in Medicaid or Healthy Michigan, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) will send you a letter regarding your benefits. This process is called “redetermination.”

Make sure to open and read any letters from MDHHS, as they will inform you if you no longer qualify for Medicaid or if you need to reapply.

Update Your Contact Information

To avoid missing critical notices, ensure your contact details are correct. If you have an account with MI Bridges, double-check your address and phone number. Incorrect information can delay or prevent you from receiving necessary benefits.

Shari Smith, Manager of the Medicare Medicaid Assistance Program at AgeWays, stresses, “If letters are sent to the wrong address, recipients risk missing important notifications and being removed from Medicaid.”

Visit the MI Bridges website to confirm your details are up to date.

Missed Signing Up for Medicare? Act Now

If you turned 65 during the pandemic and didn’t sign up for Medicare, you need to act quickly to avoid a gap in health care coverage and potential financial penalties.

Special Enrollment Period for Medicare
A special enrollment period is available for those who turned 65 during the pandemic and missed signing up. You have six months from the day you’re notified of losing Medicaid coverage to apply for Medicare.

Don’t miss this window! Taking action now can ensure you’re covered without penalties.

Dual Eligibility: Medicaid + Medicare

Some seniors qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. This means Medicare is your primary coverage, and Medicaid provides additional assistance. If you’re eligible for both, you may need to verify your coverage and ensure both programs are active.

We’re Here to Help

If you need assistance applying for Medicare or have questions about Medicaid disenrollment, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Medicare Medicaid Assistance Program at 800-803-7174.

• Download the Medicare application form at Medicare.gov.

• Call Social Security at 800-772-1213 for help with submission details.