Certified Application Counselor Practice Test

Medicaid and CHIP agencies calculate Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) based on what type of income measurement?

1. Annual income

2. Weekly income

3. Monthly income

4. Daily income

The correct answer is: Monthly income

The correct choice is based on how the Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) is defined for Medicaid and CHIP eligibility. MAGI is calculated using the annual income of an individual or family, but it is typically assessed on a monthly basis when determining eligibility for health coverage programs. When evaluating eligibility for Medicaid and CHIP, agencies look at the projected annual income, which is then divided to estimate the monthly income figure. This monthly measurement allows for a more accurate representation of income fluctuations that might occur throughout the year. Using daily or weekly income measurements could yield inaccurate eligibility determinations, as they would not account for variations in income that could occur on a monthly basis. Therefore, the focus on monthly income provides a standardized way to evaluate income levels relative to the federal poverty level and other eligibility criteria throughout the year.