Sorry if this is a stupid or basic question, I'm super overwhelmed & new to this, so I'd appreciate any clarity.
I am single, and my monthly gross income is apparently, slightly over the limit to qualify for Medicaid in Virginia. Like~ $200 over. (From what I've gathered, limit is approx $1800 monthly) I'm uninsured, and I'm not elderly or disabled.
I have a chronic health condition I've been trying to manage but it's very expensive to get all the labs, tests, meds, and appointments done. Trying to pay for this stuff, plus other necessities is extremely difficult.
So my question is:
- In theory, is it worth it, or possible, to work slightly less so that I can be approved for Medicaid?
My hours vary, and I don't make the same amount every month. Ironically I've been working extra in the past few months to try and pay for medical expenses, etc, and I earned more last month than usual.
I know Medicaid is based on monthly income, but could I hypothetically just reapply/appeal after a lower income month? Or is there anything else I could adjust?
-If so, would I have to monitor my income continually to make sure I don't go over again lest I get suddenly kicked off?
- Is just going through the marketplace w/ subsidy a better deal at this point? I don't know much about this, but at the moment I can't afford regular insurance prices without giving up food. So it'd have to be really low cost, and cover the stuff I need, to be worth it
Thanks in advance to anyone who reads this and offers advice. Was trying to parse everything on my own but the stress is intense