Medicare Buy-In FAQ

Medicare Buy-In 

Frequently Asked Questions

1) How long does it take for a buy-in to update the Medicare files?

The Buy-In process can take up to 120 days for Medicare files to update.

2) It has been more than 120 days and Medicare files are not updated.

You will need to contact the Buy-In Unit for additional Center for Medicare Services (CMS) and/or Social Security Administration (SSA) research.

3) How far back can Buy-In be processed?

A Buy-In can be processed up to two years from today's date.

4) What if the beneficiary has Part A and not Part B for the date of service?

Medicaid will not pay if someone is eligible for Medicare and is not enrolled.  You will need to contact the Buy-In Unit for review.  If Buy-In is approved, files will be updated within the next 120 days.  If Buy-In is denied, please see General Information Chapter, Section 11.1.

5) I received a denial that the beneficiary is eligible for Medicare, but not enrolled.

Medicaid will not pay for Medicare covered services; if someone is eligible for Medicare and is not enrolled.  The beneficiary will need to apply for Medicare at the local Social Security office.  When Medicare is established, it is important that Medicaid is notified to update the Medicaid systems.  If the beneficiary has any questions or needs assistance, please have the beneficiary contact Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) at 1-800-803-7174.