Optional eligibility for reasonable classifications of individuals under age 21 with income below a MAGI-equivalent standard in specified eligibility categories

(a) Basis. This section implements sections 1902(a)(10)(A)(ii)(I) and (IV) of the Act for optional eligibility of individuals under age 21.

(b) Eligibility. The agency may provide Medicaid to all—or to one or more reasonable classifications, as defined in the State plan, of—individuals under age 21 (or, at State option, under age 20, 19 or 18) who have household income at or below the income standard established by the agency in its State plan in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section.

(c) Income standard. The income standard established under this section may not exceed the higher of the State's AFDC payment standard in effect as of July 16, 1996, or the State's highest effective income level, if any, for such individuals under the Medicaid State plan or a demonstration program under section 1115 of the Act as of March 23, 2010, or December 31, 2013, if higher, converted to a MAGI-equivalent standard in accordance with guidance issued by the Secretary under section 1902(e)(14)(A) and (E) of the Act.