Arc Medicaid Application Information for SSI Recipients,
Recently, a number of self-advocates and families have contacted us regarding
unexpected difficulties they have encountered when trying to apply for Medicaid
for the first time after they have been approved for SSI (Supplemental Security
Income).
Medicaid eligibility for Illinois residents with disabilities who have been found
eligible for SSI has not changed.
However, part of the Affordable Care Act, called “ACA Medicaid” or the “new
Medicaid” has expanded eligibility for adults based only on their income.
In the past, only low-income pregnant/parenting adults and adults with SSI-
certified disabilities could qualify for Medicaid.
Now, new eligibility rules for this group of adults (called Modified Adjusted
Gross Income or MAGI rules) , mean that the incomes of all members of their
household are counted .The MAGI rules do not apply to people who are enrolled
in SSI.
There has been some confusion regarding the rules when some adults on SSI
have attempted to apply for Medicaid, which resulted in their applications being
denied.
Our staff has worked with representatives from HFS and DHS to clear up this
confusion.
Tony Paulauski Executive Director
The Arc of Illinois
20901 S. LaGrange Rd. Suite 209
Frankfort, IL 60423
815-464-1832 (OFFICE)
815-464-1832 (CELL)
Tony@www.thearcofil.org