Initially there were concerns that Medicaid rules would require joint applications to be long and difficult. This problem has not materialized. Until recently, most States had lengthy and complex Medicaid applications. However, new Federal guidance and State-initiated changes have shown that Medicaid applications can be short, simple, and relatively easy for families to complete. 9 Supplemental Forms Can Be Avoided Some States with joint applications require families with children who appear likely to be eligible for Medicaid to complete additional forms.
Additional forms can defeat or at least undermine the purpose of a joint mail-in form.
They add complexity and can discourage families from completing the application process. Supplemental forms are typically used to obtain information about the potential of getting medical support from an absent parent. However, children's eligibility for Medicaid does not require parental cooperation in establishing medical support, so this information does not need to be solicited in the initial application process. However, these questions can be asked simply and integrated into the application. Illinois adopts this approach.