How to apply for New York Medicaid for Aged, Blind, or Disabled (Non-MAGI Medicaid)

Who it's for

New York Medicaid Non-MAGI (Aged/Blind/Disabled) covers comprehensive medical, behavioral health, and long-term services & supports for low-income residents age 65+, blind, or disabled. 2026 limits: single-applicant income $1,836/month (approximately 138% FPL — NY is significantly more generous than the federal floor); single-applicant resources $33,038. Married couples (both applying): $2,489/month income, $44,796 resources. Primary residence exempt up to $1,130,000 equity. Apply through the NY State of Health marketplace, ACCESS HRA (NYC residents), or the local county Department of Social Services. Apply at health.ny.gov or by calling 800-541-2831.

What you'll need

• Proof of age (65+) or disability/blindness determination
• Proof of New York residency
• Social Security card
• Proof of citizenship or qualified immigration status
• Proof of all household income (Social Security, pension, etc.)
• Proof of all countable assets (bank statements, brokerage statements)
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about New York Medicaid for Aged, Blind, or Disabled (Non-MAGI Medicaid). 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 disability/blindness determination, proof of new york residency, social security card — 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 a disability or blindness determination, proof of New York residency, your Social Security card, proof of citizenship or qualified immigration status, proof of all household income (such as Social Security or pension statements), proof of all countable assets (such as bank and brokerage statements), and your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare.
2. Choose how you want to apply: online through NY State of Health or ACCESS HRA (for New York City residents in the 5 boroughs), in person at your local county Department of Social Services, or by phone.
3. If applying by phone, call the New York Medicaid helpline at 800-541-2831. A representative can walk you through the application.
4. Complete the application fully and accurately. Report all income sources and countable assets. Your primary residence is exempt up to a set equity limit, so you do not need to list it as a countable asset.
5. Submit your completed application along with all required documents through your chosen channel — online, by phone, or at your local county Department of Social Services or NYC HRA Medicaid Office.
6. Respond promptly if the agency contacts you for additional information or a follow-up interview, as this helps avoid delays in processing your case.

What to expect: After submitting, your local county Department of Social Services — or the NYC HRA Medicaid Office if you live in one of the five boroughs — will review your application and verify your documents. Processing times vary, so ask the agency for an estimate when you apply. If approved, you will receive a notice explaining your coverage start date and the benefits available to you, which include comprehensive medical, behavioral health, and long-term services and supports. New York requires an annual recertification to confirm you still meet eligibility requirements, so watch for a renewal notice each year and respond by the deadline to avoid a gap in coverage.

Renewals

annual recertification