In Ohio, individuals with disabilities may qualify for Medicaid coverage. This government-sponsored health insurance program provides comprehensive medical care to eligible individuals. To be eligible for Medicaid with a disability, applicants must meet certain income and asset requirements. Additionally, they must have a disability that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death. Disabilities can include physical, mental, or emotional impairments. Individuals who are blind or have a disability that affects their ability to work may also be eligible for Medicaid. Applying for Medicaid can be done through local county agencies or online.
Social Security Disability Income (SSDI)
Many disabled Ohioans qualify for both SSDI and Medicaid as a result of their qualifying disability.
- SSDI is a federally funded program that provides income to people who are unable to work because of a disability.
- SSDI is funded through payroll taxes, and most workers are eligible if they have worked long enough and paid into the Social Security system.
- SSDI benefits are based on your work history and your disability.
- To qualify for SSDI, you must have a disability that is expected to last for at least one year or result in death.
- You must also be unable to work in any substantial gainful activity (SGA).
- SGA is defined as earning more than $1,350 per month ($2,260 per month for blind individuals).
If you are approved for SSDI, you will automatically be eligible for Medicaid in Ohio. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, you may not be eligible for Medicaid if you are also covered by an employer-sponsored health insurance plan.
If you are not sure if you qualify for Medicaid in Ohio, you can contact the Ohio Department of Medicaid at 1-800-324-8680.
Other Options for Disability
If you do not qualify for SSDI, you may still be able to get Medicaid in Ohio. There are a number of other programs that provide health insurance to people with disabilities.
- Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, or who have certain disabilities.
- Medicaid is a state-federal health insurance program for people with low incomes and limited resources. In Ohio, people with disabilities can qualify for Medicaid through a number of different programs, including the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program and the Disability Assistance program.
- The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a federal-state health insurance program for children whose families have low incomes and limited resources. In Ohio, CHIP is called Healthy Start.
- The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) provides a variety of services to people with developmental disabilities, including health insurance.
Where to Get Help
If you are not sure which program you qualify for, you can contact the Ohio Department of Medicaid at 1-800-324-8680.
You can also get help from a disability advocate. Disability advocates can provide information and support to people with disabilities. They can also help you apply for benefits and appeal denials.
| Program | Eligibility Requirements | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| SSDI |
|
Apply online at the Social Security Administration website or visit your local Social Security office. |
| SSI |
|
Apply online at the Social Security Administration website or visit your local Social Security office. |
| Medicaid |
|
Apply online at the Ohio Department of Medicaid website or visit your local county Department of Job and Family Services office. |
| Medicare |
|
Apply online at the Social Security Administration website or visit your local Social Security office. |
| CHIP |
|
Apply online at the Ohio Department of Medicaid website or visit your local county Department of Job and Family Services office. |
| DODD |
|
Apply online at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities website or visit your local county board of developmental disabilities. |
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI is a federal program that provides monthly payments to people with disabilities and limited income and resources.
To be eligible for SSI, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must have a disability that prevents you from working.
- You must have limited income and resources.
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified non-citizen.
- You must be a resident of the United States.
If you meet all of these requirements, you may be eligible for SSI benefits.
Medicaid and SSI
Medicaid is a health insurance program for people with low incomes and limited resources. In Ohio, Medicaid is available to people who receive SSI benefits. In most cases, they will automatically qualify for Medicaid once certified for SSI benefits.
There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you are receiving SSI benefits but you have other health insurance, you may not be eligible for Medicaid. You may also be ineligible for Medicaid if you live in a nursing home or other long-term care facility.
How to Apply for SSI and Medicaid
To apply for SSI and Medicaid, you can follow these steps:
- Contact your local Social Security office to request an application.
- Complete the application and return it to the Social Security office.
- Attend a disability hearing, if necessary.
- Wait for a decision on your application.
If you are approved for SSI benefits, you will automatically be enrolled in Medicaid.
| SSI | Medicaid | |
|---|---|---|
| Income Limit (individual) | $1,821 | $1,482 |
| Income Limit (couple) | $2,426 | $2,131 |
| Resource Limit (individual) | $2,000 | $2,000 |
| Resource Limit (couple) | $3,000 | $3,000 |
Medicaid for Ohioans With Disabilities
Medicaid is a government-sponsored health insurance program that provides coverage for some low-income and disabled individuals and families. In Ohio, there are specific income and asset limits that must be met in order to qualify for Medicaid with a disability.
Income and Asset Limits
- Income: For 2023, the income limit for a single person is $1,441 per month, and for a couple, it is $2,163 per month. These limits are higher if you have a dependent child.
- Assets: The asset limit for a single person is $2,000, and for a couple, it is $3,000. Some assets, such as your home and car, are not counted toward this limit.
If you meet the income and asset limits, you may be eligible for Medicaid with a disability in Ohio. However, there are some other factors that can affect your eligibility, such as your age, disability status, and residency.
Other Factors That May Affect Eligibility
- Age: You must be under the age of 65 to qualify for Medicaid with a disability in Ohio.
- Disability Status: You must have a disability that is expected to last for at least 12 months or result in death.
- Residency: You must be a resident of Ohio to qualify for Medicaid with a disability.
If you are unsure whether you qualify for Medicaid with a disability in Ohio, you can contact your local Medicaid office or visit the Ohio Department of Medicaid website for more information.
Additional Resources
- Ohio Department of Medicaid: https://medicaid.ohio.gov/
- Medicaid Eligibility: https://www.healthcare.gov/medicaid-chip/eligibility-medicaid-chip/
| Single | Couple | |
|---|---|---|
| Income Limit | $1,441 | $2,163 |
| Asset Limit | $2,000 | $3,000 |
Proof of Disability
To qualify for Medicaid with disability in Ohio, you must provide proof of your disability. Acceptable forms of proof include:
- A Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) award letter.
- A letter from your doctor or other healthcare provider that states you are disabled and unable to work.
- A copy of your Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan, if you are a child with a disability.
| Proof of Disability | Required Documentation |
|---|---|
| Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) | Award letter |
| Letter from a Doctor or Healthcare Provider | Statement of disability and inability to work |
| Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan | Copy of the document |
You can submit your proof of disability online, by mail, or in person at your local county Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS) office.
Hey folks, thanks for sticking with me through this deep dive into Medicaid eligibility for Ohioans with disabilities. I know it’s a lot to take in, but I hope it’s given you a clearer picture of your options. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Ohio Department of Medicaid. They’re there to help. And remember, this is just a snapshot of the current situation. Things can change, so be sure to check back here from time to time for updates. In the meantime, take care and stay healthy!