Who is eligible for coverage?

To be eligible for MA-EPD, you must:

• Be certified disabled by either the Social Security Administration or the State Medical Review Team
• Be employed and have required taxes withheld or paid from earned income
• Have monthly earnings of more than $65 on average over a six month period
• Pay a premium (American Indian or Alaska Natives are exempt from paying a premium)
• Pay an unearned income obligation if required

What is covered on MA-EPD?

MA-EPD pays for the same services as regular Medical Assistance, including:

• Alcohol and drug treatment
• Chiropractic care
• Dental care (limited for non-pregnant adults)
• Doctor/clinic visits
• Emergency room (ER) care
• Eyeglasses
• Family planning services
• Hearing aids
• Home care
• Hospice care
• Hospital services (inpatient and outpatient)
• Immunizations and vaccines
• Interpreter services
• Lab and X-ray
• Licensed birth center services
• Medical equipment and supplies
• Medical transportation (access, ambulance and special)
• Mental health care 
• Nursing homes and ICF-DD facilities
• Outpatient surgery
• Personal care assistance
• Physical, occupational and speech therapy
• Prescriptions (except enrollees who also have Medicare) and Medication Therapy Management
• Rehabilitative therapy
• Urgent care

Some services, such as prescription drugs, non-preventive care visits and eyeglasses may have copays. In certain circumstances, MA-EPD may cover Medicare or other health insurance premiums, copays and deductibles.

What is the income limit?

There is no income limit for MA-EPD.

What is the asset limit?

Effective January 1, 2024, there is no asset limit for MA-EPD.

Can I have other insurance and still get MA-EPD?

Yes, you may have private, group or employer-subsidized health insurance in addition to MA-EPD. Many services that are not covered by other insurance policies may be paid for by MA-EPD.

If you have other health insurance, that insurance must be used first, following the rules of that primary plan (e.g., must use network providers, obtain referral or authorization as required, etc.). Then services not covered may be paid through MA-EPD.

When does coverage start?

You must pay your premium or give proof of your American Indian or Alaska Native status before your coverage starts. Coverage may go back three months from the date we get your application. Call your county or Tribal agency if you have questions about when coverage can start.

What if I lose my job or cannot work because of a medical condition?

Job loss

If you are enrolled in MA-EPD and you lose your job through no fault of your own (you did not quit or get fired), you may stay on MA-EPD for up to four months while looking for another job. If you do not have a job after four months, you cannot be on MA-EPD.

Medical leave

If you become unable to work because of a medical condition, you may stay on MA-EPD for up to four months. You must have a written, signed doctor's statement that says you are expected to return to work within four months. If you cannot return to work within four months, you cannot be on MA-EPD.

How does working affect other benefits?

For information on how working may affect other benefits, such as Social Security Disability Insurance, Medicare, Social Security Income, Minnesota Supplemental Aid, private disability insurance, subsidized housing, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and veteran benefits, visit Disability Benefits 101.