Can I apply for Medicaid if I have a disability?

It can take time for Social Security to make a decision on your disability claim. While you are waiting for a decision, you may have concerns about obtaining medical coverage.

Is Medicaid coverage available to people with disabilities?

Who Qualifies For Medicaid?

To qualify for Medicaid in North Carolina, you must live in the state and be a citizen of the United States, a U.S. national, legal alien or a permanent resident. You must also meet the income requirements, need healthcare or insurance assistance and fit into one of several categories:

• Pregnant
• Blind
• Responsible for a child under the age of 18
• 65 years old or older
• You or a family member in your household has a disability

The income threshold varies according to how many people live in your household.

How Do I Qualify Based On Disability?

If you are under the age of 65 and you meet the Social Security definition for disability, then you automatically qualify for Medicaid if you meet the other requirements. If you do not have a decision on your Social Security benefits, then Medicaid must make a determination of your eligibility for the program.

Additionally, individuals with disabilities who are working may qualify for Medicaid through the Health Coverage for Workers with Disabilities Act. You must meet the basic Medicaid requirements and your unearned income must not exceed 150% of the federal poverty level to qualify through this program.

Most individuals with disabilities who meet the other eligibility requirements can apply for Medicaid coverage. However, those who have not qualified for Social Security benefits must prove that they meet the state’s definition of disability to qualify.