How to apply for Indiana Medicaid — Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD)

Who it's for

Indiana Medicaid Aged/Blind/Disabled covers Hoosiers age 65+, blind, or disabled. Income limit (2026): ~$1,330/month single (roughly 100% of the Federal Poverty Level — more generous than Ohio's strict ~$967/mo, less than New York's ~138% FPL). Resource limit: $2,000 single / $3,000 couple. Indiana also offers M.E.D. Works (Medicaid for Employees with Disabilities) and a Medically Needy spend-down. Apply via the FSSA Benefits Portal (fssabenefits.in.gov), at the local Division of Family Resources (DFR) office, or by calling 1-800-403-0864.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 65+ (or blind/disabled status)
• Proof of Indiana residency
• Proof of all household income and assets
• Social Security card
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Indiana Medicaid — Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 65+ (or blind/disabled status), proof of Indiana residency, proof of all household income and assets — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather your required documents: proof of age 65+ or blind/disabled status, proof of Indiana residency, proof of all household income and assets, your Social Security card, and your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare.
2. Apply online through the FSSA Benefits Portal, by phone at 1-800-403-0864, or in person at your local Division of Family Resources (DFR) office.
3. Complete the application fully and honestly. Report all sources of income and all assets for everyone in your household.
4. Submit your application along with all required documents. Keep copies of everything you send in.
5. Watch for a notice from FSSA about your eligibility. If the agency needs more information, respond quickly to avoid delays. Processing times vary — ask the agency for an estimate when you apply.
6. If your income is above the limit but you have high medical expenses, ask about the Medically Needy spend-down option. If you or your spouse needs long-term care, ask the agency about spousal-impoverishment protections, which may allow the spouse who stays home to keep a protected share of income and assets.

What to expect: After you submit your application, FSSA will review your income, assets, and eligibility documents. The agency may contact you if additional information is needed, so watch your mail and phone. If approved, you will receive a notice explaining your coverage. Indiana Medicaid ABD must be renewed every year — FSSA will send a renewal notice when it is time, and you must respond by the deadline to keep your coverage. If your income is near or above the limit (~$1,330/month for a single person in 2026), ask about the Medically Needy spend-down program. Married couples where one spouse needs long-term care should ask the agency specifically about spousal-impoverishment protections, as federal rules may allow the at-home spouse to keep a protected share of assets and income — the agency calculates the exact amounts for your situation.

Renewals

annual