Commonwealth Care Frequently Asked Questions

This fact sheet answers a variety of questions about the program, the enrollment process, and applications. It also explains who is eligible for Commonwealth Care, Massachusetts' health plan for those who do not already have insurance through a private plan or an employer. All Massachusetts residents are required to carry health insurance by July 1, 2007. State residents without proof of health insurance will be assessed a penalty on their state taxes that will be roughly equivalent to the cost of purchasing insurance through Commonwealth Care.

The program started accepting applications as of October 1, 2006, from people with a family income at or below 100% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Eligible individuals will have already been approved to receive services from the state's Uncompensated Care Pool; they will receive a Commonwealth Care approval letter automatically and do not need to reapply for Commonwealth Care.

As of January 2007, applications will be accepted from individuals with family incomes between 101% of the FPL and up to 300% of the FPL. Monthly payments will be set on a sliding scale and will vary with family income and the FPL.