Illinois Medicaid for Social Security Recipients: Eligibility & Requirements

Social Security recipients may qualify for Medicaid benefits in Illinois even while receiving Social Security income. The Social Security Act protects Medicaid benefits for those who are collecting income and do not have medical coverage. These requirements do not ensure that all who collect Social Security will continue to receive Medicaid benefits. Both Medicaid and Social Security benefits are determined at the state level and must be applied for through your local office. You can locate the office near you by visiting Social Security online or by searching the phone book under Social Security.

Social Security Income Eligibility

• Medicaid recipients must be qualified for Social Security income cash payments for at least one month to qualify for continuing Medicaid coverage.

Disability Requirement

• People applying for Medicaid benefits while receiving Social Security benefits still must meet the disability requirements for Social Security and meet all non-disability SSI requirements.

Medicaid Benefits and Work

• Individuals must need Medicaid in order to continue working.

Gross earnings

• Gross earnings must be insufficient to replace Social Security income, Medicaid and publicly funded attendant care services. This means that people who earn too much for Social Security income may still qualify for Medicaid.