Previous Policy (402-4 was previously found in 476-4 until November 1, 2021)
A. MAGI-Based Foster Care Household Composition
Some Non-IV-E Foster Care programs follow the MAGI Non-tax filer rules to determine the child’s household composition (401-3). Sections 354 through 354-5 explain the different requirements. The household size is used to determine if the countable income falls within the program income limit for the individual (Table VII).
1. A foster care child may be claimed as a dependent by a tax filer. If the tax filer expects to claim the foster care child as a tax dependent on the tax filer's tax return, then the foster care child is counted in the tax filer's MAGI household. The foster care child may also be counted in the MAGI household for other members of the tax filer's household depending on the rules used to determine their MAGI household. Follow the MAGI rules to determine the household size.
2. For non-tax-filers, the foster child is not included in the household.
3. The foster care child will be opened on a separate medical assistance case.
B. All Other Medical Assistance Coverage Groups
· Do not include a child who has been placed in the home under a Foster Care program in the household size. A child who is in Foster Care must have their own Medicaid case.
Note: This applies to a Foster Care child who has been placed with a Foster Care family. This does not refer to a Foster Care child who has been placed with their own parent or other Specified Relative under a "Preliminary Placement" by DCFS (354).