# Other benefits to consider:

## **\*The** MASSHEALTH STANDARD/COMMONHEALTH PREMIUM ASSISTANCE (MSCPA) **program** <a href="#the-masshealth-standard-commonhealth-premium-assistance-mscpa-program" id="the-masshealth-standard-commonhealth-premium-assistance-mscpa-program"></a>

may pay some or all of you/your family’s private health insurance premium or COBRA payment. The private insurance must meet the Basic Benefit Level of coverage as determined by MassHealth and MSCPA. MSCPA (premium assistance) will continue for as long as private health insurance is retained for the member with a disability, and as long as the member is eligible for MassHealth. Premium assistance is a separate application process and must be applied for by calling the MSCPA program at 1-800-862-4840.

As a young adult with private health insurance approaches the age of 26, an “Adult Dependent with a Disability” request should be considered and formally requested through the private health insurance. This request, if approved, will ensure that private insurance coverage continues past the current legally mandated age of 26.

As long as the private health insurance is maintained as primary insurance and MassHealth is secondary, eligibility for premium assistance (MSCPA) should be retained, regardless of age. Contact MSCPA to request an application at 1-800-862-4840.

For further information regarding MassHealth benefits, visit the Division of Medical Assistance website a[t www.mass.gov/dma,](http://www.mass.gov/dma) or call 1-800-841-2900.

Transition Information Fact Sheet No. 25

SSI Benefits

There are different types of benefits provided by the Social Security Administration (SSA). These federal programs provide assistance to adults and children with disabilities, and to people who have reached retirement age.

» **SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI)** pays benefits to adults and children with disabilities who have limited income and resources and meet medical disability criteria.

» **SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INCOME (SSDI)** is for people who have been in the workforce and have accrued Social Security credits and have a disability; or a child with disabilities whose eligible parent is retired, deceased, or has disabilities.

» **SOCIAL SECURITY** is for people who have reached retirement age.
