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Applying for BadgerCare Plus

Q: What needs to be provided with the BC+ Application?
A: Refer to the “Guide to Applying” for a list of requirements. Proof of certain items is required as part of the application process. This is true whether an application is made online, at the local agency or by telephone.

Q: When is proof of identity required for online Access Applications?
A: After applying online the local agency will request proof of citizenship and identity. Proof may include providing a birth certificate, driver’s license, or other items listed in the “What to Bring with You” document. If a community partner  is assisting with the application, documentation can be submitted by fax or by mail to the income maintenance agency at the same time that the ACCESS application is completed online. The ACCESS tracking number must be submitted with this documentation to ensure efficient processing.

Q: Do applicants still need to meet face to face with local county case worker?
A: In many cases, it is not necessary to have a face to face meeting with a case worker. If  applying for FoodShare, in addition to BC+, and there is a hardship that makes going to the agency difficult (such as lack of transportation or childcare, conflicting work or school schedules, the person is elderly, blind, or disabled, or other reasons), this requirement can be met by talking to the worker by phone.

Q: When submitting an online application through ACCESS, is it necessary for the applicant to type their name for the purpose of providing an electronic signature?
A: Yes, the applicant is required to provide their electronic signature. If computer access is an issue, complete the signature page of the paper application and submitted it to the income maintenance agency along with the ACCESS tracking number.

Exceptions include: a signature from a legal guardian, authorized representative, durable power of attorney, or someone acting responsibly for a person who is unconscious or incapacitated.

Q: Where should verification of pregnancy be sent: to the State or to the County?
A: Send it to the local Income Maintenance agency processing the application.

Q: Can verification be sent electronically?
A: Yes, verification need not be presented in person.  Verification may be submitted by mail, fax, e-mail, or through another electronic device or through an authorized representative A person authorized to act on a client's behalf for any of the Forward Health Programs. An authorized representative may be designated by the client and may exercise all the rights and responsibilities of a client..

Q: Is there any eligibility for caretakers of permanently disabled adult relatives?
A: No. BadgerCare Plus coverage for caretakers is limited to caretakers and parents of children under 19 years of age. We are working to expand BadgerCare Plus coverage in 2009 to include adults without dependent children whose income is below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level.

Q: Are BadgerCare Plus members eligible for WIC?

A: Although BadgerCare Plus has expanded eligibility, WIC program eligibility requirements are set by Federal policy, which has not changed. WIC enrollment specialists can advise your client about eligibility.

Q: If a family member, adult caregiver, or parent starts a new job through which health insurance will be offered, can they receive BC+ until their coverage starts with their employer?
A: If an applicant does not have access to insurance and meets other financial eligibility requirements, the applicant may be able to get BadgerCare Plus.  If the employer pays less than 80% of the cost of the premiums, there’s no affect on eligibility. If the employer pays 80% or more of the cost of the premiums, they may not receive BC+ if the coverage begins in the month of application or in the following three calendar months.

Q: If a woman has no maternity coverage, can she get BadgerCare Plus?
A: Yes.

Q: Can a release of information be added to the Access application for both presumptive eligibility and also the full application?

A: No. Continue to use the paper release forms signed by the applicant.

Q: Can a person apply for Emergency Medical Assistance with ACCESS?
A: Yes, ACCESS includes questions about immigration status and whether there has been a recent emergency. After helping  someone apply for emergency medical assistance, be sure to contact the income maintenance agency so they are aware that the application should be highlighted for emergency service.

Q: Who can I call if I have a question about applying for BadgerCare Plus?
A: Applicants can call the Member Services line at 1-800-362-3002.  Current members can also check their benefits online at access.wi.gov.

Q: Are there new paper applications for BC+ ?
A: We are encouraging people to apply through ACCESS (https://access.wisconsin.gov), but new paper applications are acceptable and available on the BadgerCare Plus website (http://www.badgercareplus.org/materials.htm).

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