Health insurance coverage is very important for disabled people. The federal and state governments have healthcare programs for individuals who receive Social Security Disability and Supplemental Security Income. Which program you are eligible for is determined by the benefits you are awarded.
How do I qualify for Medicaid?
If you are awarded Supplemental Security Income benefits from the Social Security Administration you will automatically be eligible for Medicaid. SSI is awarded to disabled individuals who meet low-income requirements. In Pennsylvania and West Virginia, when you apply for Supplemental Security Income benefits you are also applying for Medicaid. In Ohio, you must complete a separate application for Medicaid.
Medicaid is a federal and state run benefits program. Medicaid provides health care for the disabled who are receiving Supplemental Security Income payments. Some people may receive both Social Security Disability (SSD) and Supplemental Security Income benefits (SSI). If you receive at least $1 of Supplemental Security Income benefits you will be eligible for Medicaid.
What is Medicare?
Medicare provides health insurance coverage to individuals over the age of 65 and the disabled. Medicare is a benefit paid for by tax revenue and moneys deducted from Social Security checks. Medicare, like Social Security Disability, is a benefit that you have worked and paid for. Medicare is an essential program for providing health care for the disabled.
How do I qualify for Medicare?
If you are awarded Social Security Disability Insurance benefits you will receive Medicare coverage after two years of receiving benefits. In other words, you are not eligible for Medicare until two years after the first month that you are entitled to receive monthly benefits. You will receive information for Medicare a few months before you become eligible for benefits.
If you have questions regarding your eligibility for Medicaid or Medicare complete the contact form or call to speak with our Social Security Disability lawyers. Our Pittsburgh law firm is here to answer all of your questions about SSDI and SSI.
