Medicaid for Former Foster Care Youth

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Medicaid Program

Upon aging out of foster care, the state places young adults into one of two Medicaid eligibility groups:

  1. Medicaid for Independent Young Adults (MIYA) or
  2. Expanded Medicaid for Independent Young Adults (E-MIYA).
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Medicaid for Independent Young Adults (MIYA)

Created in 2006, MIYA is a specific Medicaid coverage group for young adults who have aged out of foster care. MIYA eligibility can be established for any youth who left foster care on or after May 1, 2006, and meet the following requirements: 

  • Resided in foster care and the state was responsible for the youth’s placement and care when they turned age 18.
  • Left foster care on or after May 2006.
  • Is at least 18 years old, but under age 21.
  • Has income under 254% FPL.
  • Is not a required Medicaid household member of a spouse or child’s eligibility group.
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Expanded Medicaid for Independent Young Adults (E-MIYA) 

E-MIYA was created in 2014. This eligibility group allows former foster youth to receive Medicaid benefits until they reach the age of 26. There is no financial test to be eligible. 

The eligibility requirements for a youth include: 

  • Is between ages 18 and 26 and is not eligible for other Medicaid coverage.
  • Was in foster care under the responsibility of the state on the date of attaining 18 years of age.
  • Was enrolled in the Iowa Medicaid program in a coverage group that is funded under Title XIX of the Social Security Act while in foster care.
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