Disability benefits from programs like Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) can be a vital source of support. However, even with these benefits, you may wonder how you will pay for medical care. Thankfully, Medicare and Medicaid programs can provide you with insurance coverage.
If you want to apply for these healthcare programs, it is important to know how they work with your disability benefits. What should you know when applying for healthcare coverage?
How long will you have to wait to receive support from Medicare?
When the Social Security Administration approves you for SSDI, you can receive Medicare. However, you must generally wait for 24 months from the date you start receiving SSDI benefits before your Medicare coverage begins. This can be a significant gap, and it is important to plan accordingly to protect your financial health.
However, there are exceptions to this rule. People certain serious conditions, such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), can get Medicare earlier. People over the age of 65 also qualify more quickly. This allows people in these situations to get coverage faster.
Do SSI recipients qualify for Medicaid?
If you receive SSI, you usually qualify for Medicaid automatically. In many states – including Georgia – SSI recipients don’t need to fill out another application for Medicaid. This makes things easier because it ensures you keep getting healthcare coverage without extra paperwork.
Can you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid?
To get Medicare, you need to be 65 or older, or have certain disabilities or conditions like ALS or ESRD. For Medicaid, your eligibility depends on your income, family size and other rules. In some cases, people do qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid. This situation is called “dual eligibility.”
Dual eligibility has many advantages. Medicaid can pay for costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, like premiums, deductibles, co-pays and extra services. This means you get better healthcare coverage and spend less money out of your own pocket.
If you think you qualify for both programs, you may want to speak to a professional like a healthcare advisor or attorney. They can explain your eligibility and help you apply for these programs.
Could returning to work impact your access to support?
If you go back to work after getting disability benefits, it might change your benefits and healthcare coverage. However, there are programs that allow you to maintain coverage as you try to return to the workforce.
SSDI has the Ticket to Work program, which lets you try working without losing your SSDI benefits right away. Even after this trial period, you might be able to keep Medicare coverage for a longer time. SSI has work incentives like the 1619(b) program that let you keep getting Medicaid benefits even if you earn more money.
Understanding these programs can ensure that you have the support you need
Understanding these systems takes careful planning and knowing the rules. By staying informed and asking for help when needed, you can manage your healthcare needs while getting disability benefits.
If you are not sure about the support available in your situation, you may want to reach out to an experienced attorney. They can make sure you make the best choices for your situation.
