If an individual is not eligible for SSI, what must they do for Medicaid?

To maintain Medicaid eligibility in scenarios where an individual does not qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), it is essential to understand that Medicaid operates separately from SSI. Therefore, the individual must apply separately for Medicaid.

Medicaid eligibility is determined based on various factors, including income, household size, and certain disabilities or health conditions. While SSI recipients often receive Medicaid automatically due to their eligibility for cash assistance, those not qualifying for SSI would need to initiate their own application process to determine if they might be eligible for Medicaid under different criteria, such as income thresholds or medical needs.

This understanding is crucial, as individuals may assume that not qualifying for SSI automatically disqualifies them from Medicaid. Instead, separate applications and assessments focusing on different eligibility requirements need to be pursued for those seeking health coverage through Medicaid. This emphasizes the importance of being proactive and aware of distinct processes for different assistance programs.