How to apply for North Carolina Medicaid — Aged, Blind & Disabled (MAABD)

Who it's for

NC Medicaid for people who are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled (the non-MAGI MAABD pathway, separate from the 2023 Medicaid expansion). People who receive SSI qualify automatically. Others may qualify as 'Medically Needy' by meeting a Medicaid deductible (spend-down). The countable resource limit is $2,000 for one person and $3,000 for a couple. Apply online at ePASS or through your county Department of Social Services.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 65+ (or proof of blindness/disability)
• Proof of North Carolina residency
• Proof of all income and resources
• Social Security card
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about North Carolina Medicaid — Aged, Blind & Disabled (MAABD). 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 proof of blindness/disability), proof of North Carolina residency, proof of all income and resources — 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 older (or proof of blindness or disability), proof of North Carolina residency, proof of all income and resources, your Social Security card, and your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare.
2. Check your eligibility basics before applying. North Carolina covers aged, blind, and disabled adults up to 100% of the federal poverty level — $1,330 a month for one person or $1,804 a month for a couple. The countable resource limit is $2,000 for one person and $3,000 for a couple. If you receive SSI, you qualify automatically. If your income is above the limit, you may still qualify through the 'Medically Needy' pathway by meeting a monthly spend-down amount.
3. Note for married couples: if one spouse needs nursing-facility or waiver care and the other stays home, federal spousal-impoverishment rules allow the at-home spouse to keep substantially more income and assets. Your county Department of Social Services (DSS) will calculate the exact protected amount. Income and resource limits update each April 1.
4. Apply online through the ePASS portal, by phone at 1-888-245-0179, or in person at your local county Department of Social Services office.
5. Submit all required documents along with your application. Your county DSS may contact you if additional information is needed.
6. Complete any interview or follow-up steps requested by your county DSS to finish processing your application.

What to expect: After submitting your application, your county Department of Social Services will review your documents and eligibility. Processing times vary, so ask your county DSS for an estimate when you apply. If approved, you will receive a notice explaining your coverage. If you qualify through the Medically Needy pathway, your notice will explain how your monthly spend-down works. Coverage must be renewed every year — you will receive a renewal notice from your county DSS when it is time. Respond promptly to any renewal requests to avoid a gap in coverage. Note: the information above is general guidance and is not legal or financial advice.

Renewals

annual